Fianarantsoa,
Madagascar
Saturday, August 11, 2007
Hello all! Just wanted to give you an update on the summer happenings here in Madagascar. Things are going really well and of course, flying by! I feel like a true teacher and get sad looking at the few weeks left of vacation before I head back to Anjozorobe. Fianarantsoa (Fianar for short) is fun, but COLD so we've been teaching in hats and coats. 2 other PCV's and I teach here at an English Center as well as run teacher trainings. We just finished our first teacher training (where we train middle school teachers in english methodology and leadership skills) in Ambalavao a small town outside of Fianar. It was good, although we are revising alot! It is hard to predict what problems these teachers may have when our conditions and materials are completely different in America. Let me just say that I am so greatful that I was raised with the American education system! It truly is an advantage. Anyway, we spent alot of time teaching songs, games, and making visual aids to help the students enjoy English. I am learning ALOT and feel like I have hit my groove as a teacher :)
Not much else to report.....hard at work and vacation is not really a vacation, but the work is SO important! I just talked to a bunch of friends and family at the Golf Outing in El Paso yesterday and want to give you all a BIG THANK YOU! I have the best support from you all and am very blessed. Thanks to all who organized, played, donated money and time, and rallied for this great cause. Also, congrats to my cousin Angie and Ken on their wedding day- today! May you have a lifetime of wonderful memories! I love you all!!!! Keep me posted on all your fun events!
Much love and God Bless :)
~Amy :)
