School Routine (3/20-24)

This week I welcomed two twin sisters to our class. Yes, a rare occurrence, for sure. But, the parents requested it and this is a private school aiming to please. I often ask myself, why? The reason many people tell me is because I am a native English speaker. This is an advantage for the children as they try to learn English. So I can't tell if this request is a compliment, or not. I was just happy to welcome the two girls!

One of my students broke her arm this week at school. Yep! I was told that she was pretending to be Super Woman. Hmmm... I have become keenly aware though, these children can frequently be found playing in ways that I would consider rough, or even dangerous. There seems to be a much more relaxed attitude about it here. "Boys will be boys," they may say. So I am not always know how to respond.

As my Spanish language skills develop, they come in handy as I interact with students in casual settings. There are several phrases that are much like our slang. As I learn them I like to find opportunities to use them. I did so once with a small group of three students. I was telling the students to go outside for recess instead of staying in the classroom. I told them I wanted them to get fresh air and play, then I used some slang. "Catchi?" I said (meaning "Get it?"). One of the students turned to me with a surprised expression and informed me that I was sounding Chilean these days! Cha-ching!

We had our Open House on Friday. Many parents sent in food (good food) for afterwards. And it was well attended! The other fourth grade teacher, Pily, and I prepared a PowerPoint presentation going over important information. We had some intense questions afterwards regarding cell phone policy, scheduling tests, and values education at school. These are some concerned parents!!! I guess if they are paying for it they want to maximize the service. Well, I really enjoyed talking with the parents afterwards. They were super friendly.