Gulu week 2 part 2

The last part of week two has been involved because we are finally on a schedule. I have started teaching with my two partner teachers. They know what they are teaching and I was encouraged to see that there were books for the kids through “Invisible Children.” It was the abridged-abridged version of Tom Sawyer…but they had a story in front of them. We worked on some reading strategies and John Kennedy (one of my partner teachers) was already taking notes on how to teach reading comprehension. That part was encouraging and I am excited to see him carry out the lesson in his own way. I also saw some kids getting caned-another reminder that the school system IS different than ours in America…but I still could not look directly as it was happening.

On Saturday, we prepared to have our cultural exchange day where all of the Ugandan and American teachers were to get together and exchange dances, stories, music, and food. I hit the town beforehand with Erin and Pakou…It was one of those moments that almost felt surreal. We were walking down alleys to get to different stores…and we were greeted by children and adults in these shanty-towns. The welcoming spirit amongst these people is astounding.

The cultural exchange was a success and everyone had a great time. We had a great introductory game by Mama Cat and Lindsey…People were sharing about themselves and some were getting so personal. My partner teacher shared that he had been abducted, and another shared that he was a former child soldier. They seemed to come alive during the music and games, however. I loved seeing them get up and dance around and lead activities. Some of these people have had so many responsibilities from childhood that they missed out on the process of growing up. Shaaroni showed us how to do a hula dance. I lead us in the Cupid Shuffle. John Kennedy lead us in two games. Then we danced with the Awere dancers. My other teacher Niaalo was giving me a hard time, and Sara (another Layibi teacher) said that I dance like I am in a pop video but that I did well. It brought everyone closer together because it was about building friendships…I am glad that we have already been able to take the teacher relationships beyond the professional level.