July 3, 2012
Today we visited a secondary school in Veracruz (Escuela Secundaria 26). The campus was an indoor/outdoor area with classrooms surrounding it (on the both first & second floors). Every classroom had a projector with screen and either air conditioning or several fans to keep cool. Today summer school was in session for those who didn’t pass their classes, but the other students were in attendance to meet our group and show us around.
Two of the students welcomed us with their rendition of the Eagles "Hotel California."
Maestra Alicia organized the group visit.
Pablo & Luis
Our group of sixteen spilt up into three groups
where we were able to speak to some of the students. I spoke with two students
in particular, Pablo & Luis, who both just finished the 7th
grade, which is the first year of secondary school. Both boys speak English
fairly well. Four years ago Pablo's father had to move to Romania for work and there is when he began learning English and
French. Pablo feels that in the next five years all students in Mexico will need
to know English & French to prepare them for the workforce. Luis has only
been studying English for two years here in Mexico. Both boys receive several
hours of English instruction in school, but also stated that many students go
to classes after school or on Saturdays for additional English help. During a
short Q & A the boys impressed me very much. Pablo expressed interest in
joining the army when he’s the appropriate age, then going off to become and
airplane pilot. Luis is interested in working in technology, just like his
twenty year old brother.
The technology room 
After chatting with the boys they gave us a tour of their school. Each
student picks some type of technology, or trade class, such as architecture, sewing/manufacturing,
electrician, etc. as part of their curriculum. Classes average about 40 students per class.
Carol & Marisol
Pablo, Luis, and Brian with Leo
Leo, who will be our tour guide in Colombia, put on an improvisational skit with the students.
Part of my project plan for this trip was relating with my ESL students, especially the newcomers, who don't speak the language. Today during the interactive skit it was difficult for me to follow along with the storyline. I have a better understanding of the frustration my students often encounter in class. Today it was difficult and a bit upsetting when a room filled with people was laughing at jokes, yet I had no idea what was going on.
To celebrate the end of the year a mariachi band played at the school for all the students & teachers to enjoy!
I'm not sure what I was thinking the school was going to be like when you mentioned it was your days destination...but I am impressed. I wonder if all the schools you're visiting will be like that. Language barriers are so unnerving...don't you think? But watch and follow the body language...it's always a helpful indicator of what they are talking about...perhaps you and I should start learning Spanish...and Madarin...and Arabic...and Urdu....
ReplyDeleteWish I was with you! -E