Lily and Sophie and Their Students

We have had a full week and are glad to have a weekend to decompress a bit.  I have some more posts to add, but wanted to get this pics up and Lily and Spohie's comments as well - They are  actually teaching their own classes.  We are a bit surprised by this, but both seem to be embracing the challenge - a few pics and their thoughts below...

Lily:

The children here are the most affectionate I have ever met. Although I have only been teaching for two days, I have found it to be an incredible experience. It is somewhat of an interesting one as well – I consider myself still a “kid” but these children address me as “teacher.” All of the children I have been in the classroom with are highly motivated and have an intense desire to learn. They beg to be taught, even during their recess. They ask many questions and I can see that they respect me. What they do not know is how much I respect them for their diligence. Today, several children surprised me with little gifts, the majority of which were pictures drawn on torn pieces of paper. These presents are now my treasures, as are the children.

Sophie:

The kids in my classes are very grateful to have an American teacher helping them with their English. When I first walked in the classrooms I was shocked to see so many kids in one room. There are 50 kids to a class and the rooms are pretty small. The kids take school very seriously. During break time the children all circle around you and ask you many questions. Their English isn’t great so it’s hard to understand them. I nod my head a lot and say yes like in the movie Madagascar. I’m very excited to be teaching here and to be getting to know my students.