You Made Today! (Wednesday, May 20th)

Today was our last day at the hotel Paradise. We loved the view, but we didn't like the lizards, bugs, or the repetitive food. It was a fun place to stay, but we were all very excited to go back to our home away from home in Kigali. We have realized that if you have to be away from your family and friends, the only way it's bearable is if you are able to have communication. Our hotel in Kigali lets us use wireless internet for free...that makes it bearable!
Today was a day that I have been looking forward to for a very long time. We went to Mwiko Schools. If you received a letter from me or looked at pictures from last year, this is the school that was using pieces of slate as paper. We didn't have a lot of time at this school, but it was still very fun. We "observed" in a classroom at first. Most of the time, us observing means we interrupt class and talk to the students. It is fun, but I feel bad interrupting their education! The students in the class sang for us. Everywhere we go they ask if we want to sing for them... Well we don't really have traditional songs, and I'm not about to break out the Star Spangled Banner...so Ashley and I sang "Head, Shoulders, Knees, and Toes". We thought that was traditional enough! haha. At least it was interactive! :) The country used to have two official languages, one of them was French. They are in the process of switching to English as the official second language. It is interesting to observe the transition the country is trying to make. They are doing an incredible job! Anyway, we spoke with the children and then all of the teacher and student had a break for lunch. During this break, the students did a traditional dance for us and they also sang.
After the singing, we gave out ISU t-shirts and some hats. We also gave out almost all of the school supplies that people gave me to donate! The children were so excited!!! We didn't have enough supplies for every child (there were over 600), but I told the principal that he should give it to the children/classes that are in need of supplies. They were so very appreciative. It's incredible to see how valued education is in this country. They do the best they can with what they have. Next week, we present what we have observed/learned during our visit to Rwanda. I am on the education team. I've been doing a lot of thinking about the educational system in the US and in Rwanda. It's astonishing! When I come up with a final conclusion, I will post that....still have a lot of reflecting to do!

Again, thank you for reading my blog. I have a little counter that says how many times it is viewed. Every time I have the chance to blog, my number has always gone up. Thank you! I'm glad I have the opportunity to share my experiences with you!