The first day of school -
There was dancing and singing, popcorn and cotton candy. There were archways made of festive balloons. There were second grade students dressed in costumes to greet the first graders, who are new to the school. They went from room to room along with music so loud the portable amplifier that was used could easily work in a stadium.
Loud doesn't begin to describe it.
Up and down the hallways, in classrooms and the lunchroom there was dancing and singing.
It was fascinating to witness the difference in the way we do things, particularly the first day of school.
I think the rationale for this party atmosphere is that they want the kids to see school as fun and social, so that is promoted to get them there. Remember, just 40 years ago, they lived in the desert and there were no schools. So really, they've come a long way.
Recently, I met someone on one of my flights who was an Emirati who was in college in Indiana. His transition must have truly been an eye-opener.
In other news -
We needed twelve new Western teachers. So far, six have arrived. In addition, we have six local teachers who are out - car accident, surgery, babies, etc. In other words, we have a serious shortage. We're hopeful that this will be resolved soon.
Anyway, that's it from party central.
More soon.
There was dancing and singing, popcorn and cotton candy. There were archways made of festive balloons. There were second grade students dressed in costumes to greet the first graders, who are new to the school. They went from room to room along with music so loud the portable amplifier that was used could easily work in a stadium.
Loud doesn't begin to describe it.
Up and down the hallways, in classrooms and the lunchroom there was dancing and singing.
It was fascinating to witness the difference in the way we do things, particularly the first day of school.
I think the rationale for this party atmosphere is that they want the kids to see school as fun and social, so that is promoted to get them there. Remember, just 40 years ago, they lived in the desert and there were no schools. So really, they've come a long way.
Recently, I met someone on one of my flights who was an Emirati who was in college in Indiana. His transition must have truly been an eye-opener.
In other news -
We needed twelve new Western teachers. So far, six have arrived. In addition, we have six local teachers who are out - car accident, surgery, babies, etc. In other words, we have a serious shortage. We're hopeful that this will be resolved soon.
Anyway, that's it from party central.
More soon.
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