To be a teacher, first you must be a student!

Each day at Montevideo Primary School proves to be more rewarding than the last. Today was another day of ultimate satisfaction!

I awoke at 6:00 a.m. (11:00 p.m. CST) with the hopes of finally getting to teach a lesson in today’s English class. I was slightly nervous because I have never presented a lesson before so my nerves were at an exceptionally high level. I arrived to Montevideo with my three companions. We were prepared to tackle the new challenges that the day had in store for us.

As the alarm sounded for the start of class, I walked out to the courtyard with my tie and confidence shining. I had a strong feeling that I was going to have the opportunity to make a difference today. I walked out to the Grade 7 line and of course all the teenage eyes were on me. I have been at Montevideo for over a week and yet, I still walk through like a celebrity.

I was informed that I was going to tag along with 7B today. Our first stop was Ms. Fischer’s class with her history lecture in the Colonization of the Cape. The tables were turned during this lecture and I became one of the students. It was interesting to learn about the Dutch and their colonization of the tip of Africa. They settled within the Cape in hopes to establish a refreshment station and find freshwater for the long travel between Holland in Europe and India in Asia.

After Ms. Fischer’s class, I had the distinct pleasure of observing in the fourth grade class today. I joined by fellow colleague, Ms. Miller, where I was able to assist the students in their online mathematics quiz. It was a nice turn of events but the results that I got to see were no different than the results that were evident within the seventh grade. The fourth grade academics are severely poor and their test results are proof of this claim. The bell for first interval then rang and I headed to the teacher’s lounge to enjoy a snack and the Wi-Fi the school has to offer.

At the conclusion of first interval, my nerves began racing once again. My lesson in English was about to be put into action when I joined Mr. Edross in his classroom. I was surprised though when his plans had change. He began class like normally, singling out students who have done poorly on their term exams. This time, however, he wanted to give more reasoning behind their failures. He first asked me to inform the class of my upbringing; where I went to school, how the school was organized, my family life, and the structure of my hometown. I did just that. He then began asking students of their upbringing. I was entirely shocked. Most of the students had lived in very small homes, similar in size to a public restroom. Within their home, most of the students had 7+ other occupants who lived with them. One student had even 25 other occupants of his household. Most of the students had also lived in townships similar to what I got to see in Imizamo Yethu and Masipumelele. They lived in shacks with no electricity, no running water, and no toilets/showers. Collectively, the students experience many tragedies in their lives. From rape and STD’s to gang violence and shootings, the tragedies never end for the students at Montevideo Primary School. I finally learned the explanation of their performance in academics. I may have had to forfeit my English lesson but I was certainly rewarded with the information that I was provided.

I then joined Ms. Wilcocks for her lecture in algebra, geometry, and life orientation. I always enjoy observing Ms. Wilcocks because she has a similar teaching method to what I see in the United States which is very admirable. The second interval soon began and so did the best part of the day. One of the students in 7B asked me to join her and the rest of her team in a table tennis match. I was very honored that they wanted me to participate and without hesitation I agreed. We headed across the school and headed into an upstairs room that had two ping-pong tables placed in the middle. The competition was on. Back and forth we went between players and ping-pong balls. As the interval concluded, I accepted my loss and congratulated my 7B students. They were impressively good at table tennis!

I then followed the 7B class to Ms. Fischer once again for a panel discussion in Afrikaans. Of course, I was unaware of what was going on but Ms. Fischer gladly assisted me. She informed me that the students were constructively arguing on the issue of animals in captivity vs. animals living in the wild. It was extremely interested to hear the Afrikaan dialect of the students and their beliefs in this issue. Ms. Fischer then stepped out of the classroom for a brief amount of time. Suddenly, the class became chaotic. Students left their seats, began engaging in physical contact, and were shouting across the room. Instinctively, I arose from my seat and once again all eyes were on me. I spoke with my teacher voice, “SIT DOWN, CLOSE YOUR MOUTHS, AND DO YOUR WORK!” In a hustle, the students returned to their desks with their eyes widen. They were shocked at my ability to regain control. I knew I had them right where I wanted. I finally had the power of being a teacher. It felt truly amazing. I didn’t hear a peep from the students until the conclusion of the academic day.

Overall, it was truly a productive day. I am very excited to return to school tomorrow and rejoin my students in our table tennis match. I vowed that I wouldn’t fail again but I can’t keep any promises. Until next time my followers, a warm good night from here in Cape Town, South Africa! 

Viva Las Safari!

Teaching in South Africa has certainly been a life-long dream come true. I am so fortunate that I have been given this opportunity and even more so I am fortunate for the truly remarkable weekend I had!

It was Friday, July 25^th at 3:30 a.m. and my alarm was ringing loudly, signaling me to awake for what would be the most anticipated adventure here in South Africa thus far: the Kruger National Park Safari! Our flight was scheduled to depart at 6:30 a.m. for Johannesburg International Airport at which point we would meet up with our co-advisor Steve Whitney and a researcher, Jayme Gardner. Together, we would begin our trek to Kruger National Park, a 400 km long by 100 km wide park that contained some of Africa’s most treasured creatures. As we met up with our newly arrived group members, we squeezed into the Viva Safaris bus and began our 6 ½ hour drive.

We arrived at Tremisana Lodge at a quarter till 16:00 (4:45 p.m.). We were scheduled to have a sunset game drive (aka. A quick drive through the park on a jeep) at 16:00 exactly. Our excitement drew heavily as we discovered that this was going to be the first time that we stepped foot into the African wild. As we dropped our luggage off, we were quickly informed that the lodge had a Wi-Fi connection. Ironically, it was working better than the Wi-Fi at our apartment complex back in Cape Town. After this blessing, we piled onto the jeep with our tour guide, Moosa, a lively African man who had been giving tours through Kruger for the past twelve years. We ventured into the park with the sun setting ever so slowly behind our coated backs. Goosebumps rose upon my skin. The hair on the back of my neck stood tall. Finally, I have achieved the number one item on my bucket list: an African Safari!

We drove with our hopes and cameras held high! The first hour quickly passed and there was no sign of the anticipated wildlife of Africa. Soon enough, though, we creeped to a watering hole and we were suddenly surprised at an interesting sound, the splashing of water. Surely, it wasn’t humans. We weren’t allowed to leave the vehicle so it couldn’t have been. As the bushes cleared, we saw a large creature with flappy ears, sharp tusks, and a long gray trunk. It was an elephant and much to our surprise, he had his best friend with him. We had the pleasure of seeing two male elephants playing in the watering hole together! Then, out of the musky lake water arose several pairs of ears and large plump faces. HIPPOS! They secretly watched as the playful elephants continued their brawl and then we pushed onward for our starlight dinner.

Stars in South Africa are not like the stars in Missouri. We approached our destination for dinner that evening but it wasn’t the fire that was cooking our delicious food that caught our attention. It was the light that was created by the stars above. With the Milky Way clearly visible and the stars shining ever so brightly, our delightful evening surrounding the campfire and the taste of traditional South African cuisine on our tongues could, in no way shape or form, get better.

We were awaken the next morning but not to the sound of our alarms. It was the pouncing of tiny paws on our thatched roof that woke us. It was the monkeys that hung around our lodge. These sly little creatures patiently waited for a chance to steal our warm breakfast. They failed in their attempt. After breakfast we headed to the Moholoholo Rehabilitation Center. Upon our arrival, we were greeted by John, a comedic tour guide to say the least. He directed us to a small area where we were to form a semi-circle around a table. Behind the table, lurking in the fenced habitat, was a young cheetah staring at the crowd appearing to size up his next meal. We were informed that we would have the pleasure of petting this kitty cat who had no comparison to your traditional house cat. It was my turn which seemed to come quicker than anticipated. I walked up to the table and the cat then stood on its front legs. He turned his head in my direction and began purring. To him, I must have been very attractive or extremely appetizing. Despite this advancement at my handsome looks, I pushed onward and rubbed by hand down his spotted, fur coat. It was soft and warm but not the type you would want to cuddle up next to. Following the cheetah, we headed to the vulture cage. John asked us to follow him into the cage. I was unsure of how intelligent he must have been because he first asked us to pet a cheetah and now he wanted us to step into a cage with 15 vultures that were precisely my size. We continued through the double doors that led into the large habitat. The birds greeted us with a warm peck on the feet! John then asked for four volunteers. Unaware of what I was about to get into, I raised my hand and he gladly chose me. I stepped forward and he asked me to put a long leather glove on my arm. I knew what was about to happen. As I put the glove on and supported my arm with the other, he threw a piece of meat onto my glove. Suddenly, a large vulture flew to my beckoning call. As he landed on my arm, he scarfed the piece of meat and then flew away again. Luckily, I left the cage with all of my limbs and both of my eyes. Our day at the rehab center concluded with the lion cage and the leopard cage. These recovering cats were the only ones we were able to see within the entire weekend! After the rehab center, we returned to Tremisana Lodge and were sent on another sunset game drive. Unfortunately, we weren’t able to see much. A few warthogs and a family of baboons was the highlight of this drive! This was our last night at Tremisana Lodge. We then packed our luggage and headed to our next living quarters, Marc’s Tree Lodge.

We were informed that evening by two lovely ladies, Pretty and Margaret, that we would be residing in tents for the remainder of the safari expedition. To my understanding of tents and camping, staying in tents consisted of paper thin walls and sleeping on the cold, hard ground. My fellow companions, who had never been camping or even seen a tent in their entire life, was not as near as excited as I was. They even dreaded the upcoming experience. I, however, was so excited to be sleeping in the African wild. Luckily, my expectation was completely wrong. We arrived at this firm structure with a porch and comfortable reclining chairs outside its entrance. As we unzipped the entrance, two twin-sized beds were waiting for us to snuggle within their soft, warm sheets.

We awoke that morning to begin our full day of driving through Kruger National Park. This was the part of the safari trip that I was exceptionally excited for! We headed to the breakfast hut where we were greeted once again by Pretty. Ironically, she was very indeed pretty especially in the rising sun! She informed us of the big day that was ahead of us and urged us to eat a large breakfast. As we consumed our hearty breakfast, we were rudely interrupted by a tiny, fury creature. The same type of monkey who awoke us the morning before crashed our breakfast and ran away with our toast! Such a naughty little primate! My companions and I boarded the Viva Safari jeep that morning, gladly guided by Wes, our animal expert! After a long morning drive with the cool wind slapping us across the faces, we ventured into the gates of Kruger National Park. The first thirty minutes of our day was quite rewarding. We saw many impala and zebras, several giraffes, a few elephants, and a white rhino all upon our arrival. The day looked very promising. We continued onward and saw much of the same animals. Mostly impalas and zebras, though. The only animal, however, that we didn’t get to see was the lions. After lunch, we had heard of a few lion sightings near where we were. Wes drove down the dirt road to the supposed siting. After an hour of searching through the tall grass and bushes, we had no luck. The lions were not interested in posing for us today.

The day was quickly coming to a close and Wes took us on our final stretch through the park. We were fortunately able to see water buffalo and the ground hornbill, an endangered bird species of the Kruger National Park. The Ground Hornbill birds have very interesting reproduction rituals. They lay two eggs once every seven years. The second egg, however, is merely a back-up. Once the first egg hatches, the chick will eat the second one. In addition to this, their habitat is being destroyed by elephants who push down their nests. We were able to snatch a few pictures of this endangered bird. Onward we went into the abyss. Right before we exited the gate, we were stopped in our path by another highly endangered animal, the African wild dog! Wes informed us that within the entirety of the park, there exists less than 300 wild dogs. A number that doesn’t compare to any other animal. He was even more excited than we were because since the start of his career at Kruger, he had never seen an African wild dog. Wes then took us back to Marc’s Tree Lodge where we enjoyed another satisfying dinner and rested after a long, eventful day in Kruger National Park.

The next morning began at 5:00 a.m. This morning we were taken by Louie on a walk through the bush. The walk was designed to educate visitors about animal tracks, animal dung, plants, and different animal behavior that could be beneficial to people who would be stranded within the African wild. We were hoping that that would be none of us. As we continued through the bush, we were greeted by the most beautiful African sunrise. As our walk concluded, we then packed our luggage and headed back to Johannesburg!

Along our journey home, we had the distinct pleasure of stopping at Light River Canyon! This canyon, with all of its glory and beauty, is the third largest canyon in the world! The Grand Canyon being the first! It was such a beautiful site and a great photo opportunity. This short thirty minute stop marked the conclusion of my African safari. As I stood there and looked over the canyon, my emotions began to set in.

I grew up in a small town. My family by all means is not rich. However, I graduated top in my class and attended the University of Missouri as a first generation college student. Needless to say, I have accomplished a lot and been through hell to do it. However, after every goal, after every accomplishment, after every dream come true, I continue to push onward to new heights and new opportunities. My adventures will never seize to end. But I looked out into the canyon that day completely satisfied at what I accomplished. I had a dream to travel to South Africa, to teach in the schools, to experience the culture, and to venture into the African wild on the safari of a lifetime.  I was once told that I could accomplish anything if I just set my mind to it. I don’t think the words could be phrased any better. I am literally standing ON TOP OF THE WORLD and I am so honored to have the privilege of doing so! 

Conclusion of Week Two!

I was lying awake in my bed last night after my third day at Montevideo Primary School. It was hard to fall asleep and for many reasons. For one, it was only 8:00; yet, I was extremely exhausted. Being a teacher is very hard work and I am not even a full-time teacher at that. For two, I had so many thoughts running through my mind of how the day went and what I should have done differently. Lastly, I was looking forward to the new day that was waiting for me: my fourth and last day of teaching for this week!

My past two days at Montevideo were very similar but on different aspects. I arrive at Montevideo each morning with the high hopes of making a difference in the lives of the learners! I feel as though that that is my purpose here in South Africa but the role has been entirely reversed. The teachers, the learners, the administration, and the education system of South Africa has all made a huge impact on my life. Maybe, just maybe, I will eventually be able to show my talent and have my turn to make a difference. This week, though, I have made several observations in the classroom to expand my knowledge as a future educator. It has been interesting to gather my thoughts and discover the many differences of the United States education system and the South Africa education system.

One of the most important differences I have noticed between our two education systems is the way all of my teachers begin class. As the teachers rush the learners to their seats, they single out certain learners and criticize them for their behavior, their learning abilities, and more importantly, their test results. This method of punishment (as I call it) certainly has its pros and cons. It puts fear in the learners and possibly forces them to do better in their academics. However, it also causes humility and shame which could lead to further problems in the learner’s educational ability. Regardless, it is a method of teaching that I have noticed consistently among all the teachers in grade seven. For myself, I necessarily do not agree with this method because it’s not solving any of the issues that the school is facing. Today was the first day that I had noticed this method of teaching on an extreme level. The teacher pointed two students out to me directly while class was in session. He explained to me that these two students had been affiliated with gangs outside of school and thus were failing in their academics. Whether this was a good teaching method or not, I have no idea. At the conclusion of class, the teacher looked at me and told me that all teachers have different ways of handling their class. They have to find out what works best and what provides results. ‘Tis true, sir, but there are certain things that may work best for you but not best for the learners.

Secondly, I have noticed that the personality of the teachers are all very similar. However, they are extremely different than those of the United States. Each teacher is very stern and intimidating when they handle their learners. With a class size of 42 students per teacher, I can certainly understand their behavior. Each teacher shows no signs of amusement and friendliness towards their learners. I, myself, am somewhat intimidated by the teachers when they are instructing the class and I am sure it is even more intimidating for the learners. The method works though. The students remain attentive during class and respect their teachers’ commands for the majority of the time. When this system fails, though, and class becomes chaotic, the teachers initiate a new tactic: physical punishment. Although I necessarily do not agree with this method, it has proven to work within the class.

Thirdly, homework assignments and testing is handled very differently than that in the United States. I have made several observations but what I have not discovered is that there is no clear assignments that are being made. Teachers will often tell the learners to complete certain tasks at home but there has been no check done by the teachers to prove that they are completing the assignments. Additionally, there is no planners/assignment books to remind the learners to complete their assignments. For learners not completing tasks, the only form of punishment that the teachers use is the fear they put into the learners’ minds bout failing their exams. I have not come to a conclusion why this is so but the learners are not forced to practice their work outside of school. It is just encouraged.

The next observation I made this week is the way the class lecture is organized among the teachers. Teachers will begin class like I have mentioned above, singling out learners and publicizing the weaknesses of the class. Each teacher will then begin his/her lecture with minimum class participation. After lecture, a small assignment will be given and the learners are expected to complete that assignment within the remaining class time. Class lecture is organized like this, from what I can observe, for three reasons. First, the class size. There is only so much a teacher can do with 40-50 learners in one small classroom. Secondly, the amount of resources. Montevideo is severely lacking funding and maybe due to their poor test results. Teachers are not given resources like teachers in the United States. They have no projectors, extra books, a research facility, or equipment to initiate different teaching styles. Lastly, the time given for the teachers to lecture. Lecture times are very small for the students in regards to each subject. The teachers are given a strict guide of course material to complete within the given time and if a teacher strays from the required material, they become extremely behind and thus, could lose their job.

The last important topic of discussion for this post is the way Montevideo handles learners who aren’t succeeding in their academics. Although this seems to be the majority of learners, extra help and assistance is not provided for learners who do not understand the material. Class must go on and if the learners are not grasping the material, there is nothing much that the teachers can do. They must push onward and continue through the course material.

Although this post seems as though it is largely criticizing Montevideo Primary School, it is important that I understand the differences that I have observed while I spend my time there. Like my host teacher said, each teacher has his/her own method of handling class. As my time here in South Africa continues, I am certain of what I am going to implement within my own classroom in the near future. I am highly looking forward to my last two weeks here. The learners have been absolutely amazing and they continue to be highly interested in me. They constantly have so many questions to ask me. I feel like a celebrity at times! Overall, I still have so much to learn and I hope that I will be given the chance to finally prepare a few lessons to present myself. For now, though, I am going to put schooling aside and enjoy the adventure that lies ahead. I fly out bright and early (6:30 a.m.) from Cape Town International to go to Kruger National Park just northeast of Johannesburg. This weekend holds the four-day safari that I have excitedly been anticipating since my arrival here in South Africa. I can hear the elephants calling my name already!

Teaching Day Two: SUCCESS!

July 22^nd - Much like yesterday, I was awake before sunrise. I suppose I should get used to this if I am going to be a certified teacher. I got dressed and put on my game face! I was ready to take on the new challenge that today was going to offer. We boarded the Boogey Bus and headed to Montevideo Primary School where the second day of class was getting ready to kick start. We arrived at the school and were once again greeted by Principal Timmit. That man certainly knows how to get you excited for the day!

I walked outside to the courtyard where I was welcomed by the other seventh grade teachers. Standing in front of them were 150 seventh grade learners in single file lines according to gender and which class they were in: 7A, 7B, or 7C. As they prepared to head to class, I was able to chat with the teachers for a few minutes where they seemed interested in the weather back in the United States once again. They found it amusing that the cold, winter weather they were experiencing was like my spring weather in the United States. Quickly following our conversation, the students began a group prayer that was led by one of the teachers. They then headed to their classrooms where I was once again reunited with Mr. Edgross.

Mr. Edgross had a reading passage selected for today’s class. He had a few different students read the excerpt and then discussed different parts with the class. Mr. Edgross then turned to me and asked if I would like to present a passage next week. I gladly replied with an excited yes. He then informed the students that I would be reading a passage to them but that they should be very mindful of my accent. I was rather entertained by this comment considering I don’t believe I have an accent but to the learners I do have one. The feeling is mutual.

After Mr. Edgross’s class, I joined Ms. Wilcocks for her class. She was the Math and Life Orientation instructor for the seventh grade. She sat me at the back of the class and began her lecture with calculating selling price after a discount had been applied to the cost price. Although the problem was using Rand, the South African currency, I was pleased to inform that learners were taught the same problem solving skills that students in the United States were taught. After working a few problems, Ms. Wilcocks then jumped into a lesson in geometry where the students were reviewing the measurement of angles and calculating the different parts of a circle. To my surprise, each student had a compass and protractor that they were able to use to find the calculations. Due to a lack of funding in different areas of the school, I didn’t think the students would have those resources!

The first interval began and there was a call for all teachers to report to the teacher’s lounge. As we arrived in the teacher’s lounge, there were a few learners there and Principal Timmit was also present. He addressed the room full of educators and informed us that today marked the 26^th Anniversary of the opening of Montevideo Primary School. I was so honored to be a part of the ceremony. A couple of learners gave a speech/blessing and another sang in front of the room. It quickly concluded, however, and then I headed to Mrs. Jacob’s class. She was the seventh grade Natural Science teacher. I sat in on her lecture which was set up much like those in the United States. I didn’t notice much difference except for the fact that she was the only teacher that used a transparency film projector. Afterwards, I joined Mrs. Fischer in her classroom yet again. Today, she seemed more authoritative and less patient. She began yelling at the learners for their talking and rushed them to their seats. Before she began lecture in Afrikaans, she asked for names. I remember her doing this yesterday but I was unsure of what was going on. She would have a few learners write the names of other learners who were being disruptive. She would then call on those learners and ask them to leave the classroom for a brief amount of time. It was her form of punishment. Today was different. She called on those learners and asked them to come to her at her desk. They would stick out their hands, she would take the wooden eraser, and then she would bang the eraser against their knuckles. I could see the pain go across the learner’s face but I just sat back and observed. One of the many things I have to learn as an educator is that there are different forms of punishment, some of which are acceptable in different parts of the world.

The tornado alarm, as I refer to it, sounded again to begin the second interval. I rejoined my companions for a brief lunch and then headed back to Mrs. Fischer’s class. It was the same class that was in there before which I was slightly confused about. Regardless, it was a pretty laid back. The students talked, I graded some papers, and then there was a Q&A session. Many of the students had several questions to ask me and I was so happy to answer them all. I felt like was an important part of their day and they seemed to really enjoy my presence.

As the day concluded, a learner came up to me and presented me with a portrait that she drew of me. I was so honored that the learner was so welcoming of me and that she took the time to draw a picture of me. Surprisingly, she is a very good artist. The final alarm rang and the learners left for the day. As each one passed, they told me “goodbye” or “see you tomorrow!” It was such a wonderful day and I am so looking forward to what tomorrow has in store for me!

Five Education Systems, One Confusing Day!

*I do apologize for the length of this blog post. I just have sooooo much to share!*

July 21^st - Our first week in South Africa quickly drew to a close! After touring the many different, breath-taking places of Cape Town, our real adventure soon began: school! As an Elementary Education major, I was placed at Montevideo Primary School here in the Western Cape of South Africa; a suburb of Cape Town.

School began at 9:00 a.m. for myself and my three other companions. Typically class begins at 8:30 but the principal asked us to show up later so he could personally greet us! We arrived completely unsure of what we were going to expect. We had no idea what class we were going to be in, what we were going to do, or what we were going to teach, if anything at all. As many could imagine, the excitement grew larger as we got closer and closer to the school. We pulled into the parking lot of a fenced in building and courtyard. There was no playground equipment, the soccer field was overrun by moles and weeds, and there was not a soul in site. We got out of the van and entered the school where we were then greeted by a lovely woman who I assumed to be the secretary. She informed us to follow her down the hallway where she directed us into Principal Timmit’s office. A well-dressed man in a jacket and tie was standing there awaiting our arrival. He was bald-headed but had an extraordinary smile on his face. I could tell that he was exceptionally pleased to have four students from the United States working in his school. He introduced himself to each of us individually. As he arrived to me last, he took my hand and shook it for a very long time while he asked for my name and how I was doing. He then looked me up and down and said, “You can do something that I cannot do.” I was completely unaware of what he was talking about but it suddenly struck me. I began to laugh and said, “Oh, I can spike my hair!” He chuckled and said, “if only I could do that.”

Principal Timmit then began telling my companions and I about the importance of education and how he became the principal of Montevideo Primary School. I was so intrigued to hear his words of wisdom and encouragement that he thought would serve us well as future educators! Following this, he asked us to take a seat and he began sharing information about his school. According to him, Montevideo Primary School is one of the best in the area. The school has a wide range of students, who they refer to as learners, from different socioeconomic and racial backgrounds. Many come from an upper class working family and there are a few learners from a poor class working family. Montevideo also offers a wide range of subjects and extra-curricular activities that many other primary schools in the area do not offer. He even explained that there is a waiting list for learners to enroll and the entry level grade, which is referred to as Grade R, or Kindergarten in the United States, has a cap of 90 positions available for entry which is quickly taken within two days of opening enrollment. I was very pleased to hear this information and most certainly I felt extremely privileged to be working in a school of such prestige. After explaining the background of the school, he then inquired about which grades we were wanting to teach. None of us had any idea because of the flexibility we were willing to offer. So he asked each of us a specific grade to teach in. He arrived to me and asked, “You, sir, how would you like to teach in seventh grade?” I responded, “I would absolutely love to!”

As we discovered our placements, Principal Timmit then took us on a brief tour of the school. We walked outside and as I looked around, I had a certain discomfort in the pit of my stomach. It was nothing like a school from the United States. There was not a central hall that led to each classroom. In fact, all the classrooms had an external door which led outside. It is set up similar to a motel actually. We then headed to the soccer field which appeared that the moles had been playing on it more than the learners themselves. Principal Timmit explained that they could not fix the field due to funding. Ironically, in the United States, most of a school’s funding goes to the athletic department. After that, he directed us to each of our classrooms. I was the last stop. He introduced me to a gentleman by the name of Mr. Edgross, the English comprehension and Tech teacher for the seventh grade. At Montevideo, seventh grade is set up similar to a junior high school in the United States in the sense that a certain teacher teaches a specific subject. In this case, however, there were four seventh grade teachers and each of them taught two different subject areas and each class rotated among them.

As I walked into the classroom, 42 pairs of eyes were suddenly looking at me. They all looked at me like I was an alien from another planet. To me, though, it seemed like I walked into a completely different universe. I had never been in a class of 42 students. Let alone, a classroom of 42 students with all different racial backgrounds than my own. In the United States, there is a 20 students to 1 teacher ratio. In South Africa, the average is 40 students to 1 teacher. I could tell that what I had known about education was going to be completely different than what I was about to learn. As I looked around the room, it was very dull. No pictures or graphics to be found except for the walls themselves which were painted in two different colors. Circling the room was a bulletin board which had a few quotes and educational material on it. Other than that, the room appeared to be like no one had ever inhabited it. In front of the chalkboard, which had no chalk, was a desk for Mr. Edgross but it looked as though he never put anything on it. He introduced me to the class as Mr. Smith, a student teacher from the United States. All the learners, who were nicely dressed in school uniforms, lit up with joy and excitement. I could tell that they were eager to learn more about me, as I was eager to learn more about them.

Mr. Edgross began the day with reading exam results from the previous term which ended on the 27^th of June. An interesting thing about exam results in South Africa is that the information is public to all the parents and to each learner. Mr. Edgross called out the name of 7 students in the class and asked them to come to the front of the class. They appeared that they were not excited at all. They unwillingly came to the front where Mr. Edgross informed the rest of the class that these were the only learners that passed the term two exam. I was rather shocked on multiple levels. For one, that only seven learners passed their exams and two, that results were not kept confidential such as those in the United States. However, I can see it as a mechanism that encourages learners to do better in their study habits.

Out of nowhere, an alarm sounds. It was a very screeching, distressful signal that was comparable to a tornado alarm at schools in the United States. I was prepared to take cover! However, it was the alarm for the 10:00 a.m. interval. An interval is similar to a recess. Learners are given a 15 minute interval every two hours. The next interval would be at noon. Mr. Edgross directed me to the teacher’s lounge where I rejoined my other companions for a short break.

After the first interval, I went and observed Mrs. Fischer, the Social Science and Afrikaans language teacher. It was extremely interesting to sit in her class. The primary language of instruction at Montevideo is English. However, many of the students can speak Afrikaans or isiXhosa, another African language. In the time of the apartheid, learners in South Africa were primarily instructed in Afrikaans but when South Africa declared its democracy in 1994, English became the mode of instruction. Today, Afrikaans is taught as an alternate subject. Mrs. Fischer, a rather short and boisterous woman, seemed as though she had a difficult time controlling the class; therefore, she raised her voice constantly. She began a short lecture in Afrikaans out of the textbook that the students had. Of course, I had no idea what was happening but it was extremely interesting to hear her instruct in another language. The leaners seemed as though they knew exactly what she was saying despite being primarily taught in English. Mrs. Fischer then gave the students some work to do while her and I chatted at her desk about my time thus far in South Africa and about the different education systems in South Africa and the United States. Interestingly enough, South Africa had been through five different education systems within the past twenty years; none of which has been successful.

The students remained very obnoxious even though they had work that need to be completed. In a room of 40 students, I am sure it was rather difficult for Mrs. Fischer to control the class. Therefore, she kept a wooden, chalkboard eraser at her desk. When the learners became too chaotic, she would take the eraser, roughly 2 inches thick, and bang it several times against the desk. The learners quickly closed their mouths. I was rather confused and I asked Mrs. Fischer why she used the eraser to silence the students. She explained to me that if the students did not keep quiet, she would use the eraser to smack their knuckles. Once again, I was very surprised to learn this information due to the fact that it is against the law for teachers to physically punish students in the United States. I didn’t continue the conversation. The alarm sounded again signaling the second and last interval to begin.

As I exited the classroom to return to the teacher’s lounge, I noticed all the students getting sandwiches out of their bags. They would then continue on to the courtyard and eat their packed lunch. I discovered that primary schools in South Africa, at least at Montevideo, they do not serve lunch or breakfast during school hours simply due to funding issues. The learners are encouraged to bring their own lunches from home. As sad as this was, I pushed onward to the teacher’s lounge where I rejoined my companions once again and enjoyed my lunch that I had packed.

The second interval concluded and I was encouraged to return to Mrs. Fischer’s class. It was much of the same routine as before. This time, however, I was able to get in front of the class and explain to the students where I exactly came from. Mrs. Fischer had a world map displayed in her classroom. I walked up to the map and pointed the central part of the United States, Missouri. Gasps went across the classroom. I continued and informed the class that Missouri is currently experiencing summer in contrast to the winter they were currently experiencing. Mrs. Fischer then encouraged me to elaborate more on the weather in the United States. I told them that the weather is very diverse. Temperatures will extremely change and we will have snowfall in the winter months. They screamed with excitement when I told them that I had seen snow. Most of them had never seen snow before.

The final alarm rang which concluded the first day of school in South Africa! My thoughts were racing and I could not seem to put them into organized categories. One thing I did know, however, is that the way learners are taught in South Africa was completely different than how learners are taught in the United States. I certainly have a lot more to learn as I continue my time here in Cape Town, South Africa!

There's Always Sacrifices!

A week has passed in the rainbow nation of South Africa. It doesn’t seem like it has been that long since we departed the international airport in St. Louis, MO, USA. Since our arrival, it has been indescribably incredible. From the people, to the landscape, to the city, and to the cultural immersion experience, it has been truly a once in a life-time opportunity. However, with all good things, there must be some sacrifices.

The Wi-Fi Sacrifice. We were told that having the ability to connect to Wi-Fi wouldn’t be an issue. In fact, there would be an abundant amount of opportunities to connect to Wi-Fi. Unfortunately, we weren’t informed correctly! From bouncing to restaurant to restaurant, utilizing the free but limited Wi-Fi they have to severely annoying the apartment owners to fix the Wi-Fi in our rooms, the battle with Wi-Fi seems to never end. This post took 48 hours to upload (exaggeration but that’s what if felt like).

The Heat Sacrifice. In the US, it is July. For many of you, you are aware of the scorching temperatures and sun-filled weather that July has to offer in the states. But when it is summer in parts of the world, it is winter in other parts. Well, I am experiencing winter…in South Africa…in the middle of July. Sun, tanning, flip-flops, swimming trunks, and tank tops don’t exist here. From the pictures that I have seen of South Africa, it was a tropical paradise. So that is what I packed for. I packed nothing but t-shirts, shorts, and flip-flops with a couple pair of jeans and a hoodie. We arrived in South Africa with temperatures in the mid-30s. I was absolutely devastated. To add to my clothing epidemic, we were informed that many of the establishments in South Africa do not have central heating. Simply because the only time they experience cold weather is in July. How did I ever become so fortunate? Hello there, shopping mall, my name is Levi and this is my wallet; lovely to meet you!

The Family and Friends Sacrifice. This trip is by far the longest time I have been away from home. Thus, I made the risk of becoming home-sick. I thought that at the rate of events that we had to attend that I would never become home-sick. Luckily, we have been really busy. Touring anything and everything possible that the city of Cape Town has to offer. Yet, there are those moments. Those moments that I am lying in my bed looking up at the ceiling, riding in the van from another event, or scrolling through my Facebook newsfeed that becoming home-sick really takes a toll. By all means, I don’t want to go home because I absolutely love the opportunity that I am experiencing. However, what would make this the ultimate experience is if I could have my family and friends here trekking through this adventure with me. I guess I can’t have all that I want but I know that they will be waiting for me when I return home. In the meantime, if Wi-Fi is cooperating, Skype and Facebook are going to have to suffice. If any of you are reading this, know that I miss you…so dearly. I am so looking forward to coming home and sharing all of the many memories that I am making in South Africa. If anyone is counting, 24 days left!

School starts tomorrow. My emotions are racing and I have no idea what to expect or even what to feel. Should I be excited, nervous, happy, fearful, or everything combined? I guess I will find out soon. It’s going to be inspirational to learn about the children, the teachers, and the power of the education system here in South Africa. The least that I can say is that I am totally looking forward to it! Wish me the best of luck!! Until then, my bed is calling my name. My day starts at 5:30 a.m.!!

Exploring Cape Town Continues...

This weekend has been absolutely phenomenal. We visited all over the city of Cape Town from the low point of Boulder Beach, to the farthest point of the African continent, and lastly to the very top of Table Mountain; we got to see it all. I took many pictures, totaling in the 500s actually. They say a picture is worth a thousand words. These pictures, however, cannot even begin to explain the pure beauty that we got to experience this weekend. The views were absolutely remarkable but they can't even be put into words! So here they are:

Touring the Peninsula:

We had the pleasure of getting a private tour of the Cape Town Peninsula. Our tour guide, the one and only Steve; owner of the Boogey Bus. The Boogey Bus is our mode of transportation while here in South Africa. It was so interesting to go to Hout Bay and look out onto the open ocean. We enjoyed lunch at the Boulder's Beach cafe and got to meet some penguins as well.

Cape Point and the Cape of Good Hope:

Our peninsula tour was half over but we finally reached the most anticipated event! We finally got to climb to the most southern point of the African continent. Cape Point and the Cape of Good Hope is where the Atlantic and Indian Ocean meet and we had the distinct pleasure of getting to see it in person. It was absolutely phenomenal.

Table Mountain:

Our journey to the top of Table Mountain began at 10:30. We arrived at the top around 12:30. This two hour trek which was nearly a complete vertical climb was extremely exhausting. However, as we climbed farther and farther to the top, the view just kept getting more spectacular. We reached the top and what we found was completely unexpected. In fact, it can't even be put into words. It was like literally standing on top of the world. I am so honored I had the privilege of venturing to the top of one of the seven wonders of the natural world!