Summer school is halfway over. I have 12 first graders and 1 second grader in my class. They are pretty amazing. Not as responsible as and independent as I thought that they might be. But, the neat thing is that summer school is a really awesome version of learning. We have a solid "learning" academic block in the morning, and then rotate through different stations in the afternoon. I'm doing a science activity each afternoon. Mondays-Wednesdays we have those activities and then Thursday we either do a whole group activity for two hours or watch a Disney movie :) On Friday we go on a fieldtrip. Talk about the best summer teaching ever, right?
One of my biggest highlights has been getting to know the other two classroom teachers out there. Sister Rita (yes, a nun) teaches the 2nd/3rd/4th class. She hais such a beautiful soul and has taught for over 30 years out here. Sister Rita is one of the funniest and most creative teachers I've ever met especially being an older teacher. Never thought I'd be friends with a nun, truthfully.
Brian teaches the 4th/5th/6th class. He was a volunteer at 0LL for three years and is now a salaried teacher there. Some how even then he is strict with the kids, he really makes them laugh.
This week I've gotten to hang out with my student Precious's grandma, Alice and Precious's dad, C-Boy to go to a sweat and a ceremony with them. My friend Claire got to come with me to this time. I hadn't been to a sweat or ceremony in so long and it felt so good to be back there. Yesterday we went to Sundance. Sundance is a traditional Lakota ceremony that lasts four days where people pledge to dance. Some men and women are pierced. There is a lot more that goes into it but I don't necessarily feel comfortable explaining it. Most medicine men each host one sometime throughout the summer if they feel a call to do so. Our students's parent, Rosa, pledged to dance for the first time this summer and invited to come see her. The whole experience was one of the most amazing things I'll ever see in my life, guaranteed. The ceremony was beautiful and one of the Red Cloud 5th graders was dancing in it. At the end of each day, the dancers do a particular dance. Then, the people who are there to support them go in the main circle. All of the dancers come by with either eagle feathers, a piece pipe or some just who use their hands for this part. They touch the spectators with those objects on the shoulder or on the head. It is a very humbling experience to be a part of the ceremony and something that I will never forget.
I love South Dakota. I love giant storms out in the Badlands. I love my students and their families. I love feeling like I'm finally making a difference with my actions out here. I love feeling like I've found a family out here even though my actual family is so far away. I love knowing I have at least one more year here.
Friday, June 15, 2012
Tuesday, May 22, 2012
It's Almost Summer Time
Sometimes it feels like I've been here in South Dakota for ten years even though I've only been here for 11 months. Sometimes it feels like I've been dating Brady for ten years even though we've only known each other since January. Sometimes I really like both of those feelings.
I'm officially done with my first year of teaching besides kindergarten round up! This is when the new students come in to get tested for next fall and try to make it into Red Cloud. It's crazy. I have about 36 kids trying to get into 18 spots. The parents so far have been great and it makes me feel like staying for a second year will make such a big difference since I have a real year of teaching under my belt. I know what to expect, thank God.
This summer I'm teaching first/second grade during summer school at our sister school at Our Lady of Lourdes. While I'm sad that I don't get to be with the kids that I know so well, I'm really pumped to get to have older kids for a month. Don't get me wrong I love kindergarten but it's nice to have kids that are responsible. Have to say though, I do miss second grade from time to time.
In other news:
I've grown really close to several of my students' families this semester especially. They've talked me in as a granddaughter and daughter in so many ways. This makes me so excited for what could happen this summer-getting to go to Sundances, ceremonies, and to visit with these special people in my life. I've grown particularly close to one of my student's grandmas or "unchi" as they say in Lakota. She is such an amazing woman that's had a very interesting life and she's taken me under her wing to teach me more about traditional Lakota ways. Each week I go over to their house at least once to sit and visit with the family. As my student's dad says, "Don't ever be a stranger, you hear me?". That's how much I love this family. They are blunt, funny, and hard working people who put their family above all else. It's a beautiful thing.
This month marks my two months dating Brady. He's such a dependable, nice, funny and amazing guy. I'm very lucky to have him my life and I couldn't be more grateful. God is good :)
I'm officially done with my first year of teaching besides kindergarten round up! This is when the new students come in to get tested for next fall and try to make it into Red Cloud. It's crazy. I have about 36 kids trying to get into 18 spots. The parents so far have been great and it makes me feel like staying for a second year will make such a big difference since I have a real year of teaching under my belt. I know what to expect, thank God.
This summer I'm teaching first/second grade during summer school at our sister school at Our Lady of Lourdes. While I'm sad that I don't get to be with the kids that I know so well, I'm really pumped to get to have older kids for a month. Don't get me wrong I love kindergarten but it's nice to have kids that are responsible. Have to say though, I do miss second grade from time to time.
In other news:
I've grown really close to several of my students' families this semester especially. They've talked me in as a granddaughter and daughter in so many ways. This makes me so excited for what could happen this summer-getting to go to Sundances, ceremonies, and to visit with these special people in my life. I've grown particularly close to one of my student's grandmas or "unchi" as they say in Lakota. She is such an amazing woman that's had a very interesting life and she's taken me under her wing to teach me more about traditional Lakota ways. Each week I go over to their house at least once to sit and visit with the family. As my student's dad says, "Don't ever be a stranger, you hear me?". That's how much I love this family. They are blunt, funny, and hard working people who put their family above all else. It's a beautiful thing.
This month marks my two months dating Brady. He's such a dependable, nice, funny and amazing guy. I'm very lucky to have him my life and I couldn't be more grateful. God is good :)
Tuesday, April 10, 2012
Tractors, Cows, and the Nebraska life
Once again I'm a horrible blogger and can't keep up with life. Another month flew by so fast. This whole school has been chaotic and tested me a multiple ways. Only a month until the end of school. So much to teach my kids in so little time!
We had last Thursday, Friday and Monday off for Easter Break. I took a 6 hour long trip to Vermillion, SD to meet up with a guy that I've been dating. He works as an engineer out there for now but really wants to move back to work on the farm where he grew up. I spent a couple days out there with Brady in Vermillion and then we went to Bloomfield, NE to the farm. Talk about the life of a farmer! I went into their machinery shed and literally stopped in my tracks. Everything was so much bigger then I ever imagined! I got to sit in the combine (massive I might add) and helped him use the disc thrower to till part of their fields. He said if I could drive a bus then I could drive a tractor. Theoretically....
Even thought it's only been a few months since we've known each other it's already the healthiest the relationship I've been in for a number of years. He makes me feel protected and needed. We both work hard at the relationship and give the same amount. Brady cooked me breakfast every day that I was there. He makes me laugh until my stomach hurts. We both have Crohn's and he knows what it feels like to "have a bad day". We have so many similarities it still makes me nervous. I know though that things work out for a reason and I can use what I learned from my past to make this relationship work. Coming out here to SD has helped form me into the person I want to be and I did that being single. I feel secure enough in myself now to feel comfortable in a relationship. I'm lucky to have a guy in my life like Brady. It's crazy how much life can change in a year isn't it?
We had last Thursday, Friday and Monday off for Easter Break. I took a 6 hour long trip to Vermillion, SD to meet up with a guy that I've been dating. He works as an engineer out there for now but really wants to move back to work on the farm where he grew up. I spent a couple days out there with Brady in Vermillion and then we went to Bloomfield, NE to the farm. Talk about the life of a farmer! I went into their machinery shed and literally stopped in my tracks. Everything was so much bigger then I ever imagined! I got to sit in the combine (massive I might add) and helped him use the disc thrower to till part of their fields. He said if I could drive a bus then I could drive a tractor. Theoretically....
Even thought it's only been a few months since we've known each other it's already the healthiest the relationship I've been in for a number of years. He makes me feel protected and needed. We both work hard at the relationship and give the same amount. Brady cooked me breakfast every day that I was there. He makes me laugh until my stomach hurts. We both have Crohn's and he knows what it feels like to "have a bad day". We have so many similarities it still makes me nervous. I know though that things work out for a reason and I can use what I learned from my past to make this relationship work. Coming out here to SD has helped form me into the person I want to be and I did that being single. I feel secure enough in myself now to feel comfortable in a relationship. I'm lucky to have a guy in my life like Brady. It's crazy how much life can change in a year isn't it?
Sunday, March 11, 2012
Biggest Blessings so Far
Sooooo much has happened since my last post a few weeks ago:
1. One of my students was dismissed from my Red Cloud. We've worked very hard with this student all year long, but ultimately he kept making bad choices (throwing things, hitting people) and had to be sent to a different school. In the end while I'm sad that he's gone, it's the best option for the rest of the kids in my class. When one student consistently runs around the classroom, defies authority at every chance, and throws chairs/stools/benches every day it is very dangerous in a classroom setting. Last week was the first week that he was gone. It has made me into a happier and more effective teacher.
2. Last Sunday, one of my students invited me over for Indian tacos which is a big deal around here. Her grandma told me that she tried to call me at 9:30 the night before and started crying when her mom wouldn't let her. This is a student that I have grown very close to this year. Her grandpa died last year. She was his whole world and it is still a difficult process to go through. I think I've grown so close to her because my grammy died when I was in kindergarten second semester. I would cry every day and my teacher would put me in time out. She never asked me what was wrong to get to the root of the problem. There are some days where this student just can't handle the world- she cries, stumbles around, and simply can't tell me what's wrong. I know what's wrong without her having to say a word. She feels that hole which is missing from her heart. I get her. Her family was amazing. Dinner turned into the dad asking me to come with him to a sweat and a ceremony with the whole family. It was the best blessing I've had this semester. All of my hard work has paid off. At least one family can see how much I truly love their child.
3. Last night I went to a ceremony for Rosa's family. Whenever we go to a ceremony with them I feel like a part of their family too. Because of their hospitality South Dakota has become "home" to me and I couldn't be more grateful. Next weekend Rosa's aunt, Teresa, will show several volunteers how to make a star quilt.
4. This week one of my camp friends will be in Oglala for a mission trip. Next weekend another friend comes to visit all weekend. The next weekend my parents come to visit and I can't wait!
Well, I'm off to church soon. Later today, Erin and I are going over to the first grade teacher's house to spend the day/night. Miss Stacy's family all does rodeo so we get to ride horses and learn how to rope. Here comes another busy month!
1. One of my students was dismissed from my Red Cloud. We've worked very hard with this student all year long, but ultimately he kept making bad choices (throwing things, hitting people) and had to be sent to a different school. In the end while I'm sad that he's gone, it's the best option for the rest of the kids in my class. When one student consistently runs around the classroom, defies authority at every chance, and throws chairs/stools/benches every day it is very dangerous in a classroom setting. Last week was the first week that he was gone. It has made me into a happier and more effective teacher.
2. Last Sunday, one of my students invited me over for Indian tacos which is a big deal around here. Her grandma told me that she tried to call me at 9:30 the night before and started crying when her mom wouldn't let her. This is a student that I have grown very close to this year. Her grandpa died last year. She was his whole world and it is still a difficult process to go through. I think I've grown so close to her because my grammy died when I was in kindergarten second semester. I would cry every day and my teacher would put me in time out. She never asked me what was wrong to get to the root of the problem. There are some days where this student just can't handle the world- she cries, stumbles around, and simply can't tell me what's wrong. I know what's wrong without her having to say a word. She feels that hole which is missing from her heart. I get her. Her family was amazing. Dinner turned into the dad asking me to come with him to a sweat and a ceremony with the whole family. It was the best blessing I've had this semester. All of my hard work has paid off. At least one family can see how much I truly love their child.
3. Last night I went to a ceremony for Rosa's family. Whenever we go to a ceremony with them I feel like a part of their family too. Because of their hospitality South Dakota has become "home" to me and I couldn't be more grateful. Next weekend Rosa's aunt, Teresa, will show several volunteers how to make a star quilt.
4. This week one of my camp friends will be in Oglala for a mission trip. Next weekend another friend comes to visit all weekend. The next weekend my parents come to visit and I can't wait!
Well, I'm off to church soon. Later today, Erin and I are going over to the first grade teacher's house to spend the day/night. Miss Stacy's family all does rodeo so we get to ride horses and learn how to rope. Here comes another busy month!
Sunday, February 26, 2012
Puppy Soup, Ceremonies, and Dinosaurs
This weekend I had the opportunity to go to two ceremonies, one on Friday night and the other last night. There was a small group of us went on Friday even though our friend Rosa didn't go. It was exactly what I found out that I needed and especially last night's ceremony. Last night I noticed that the rattle was right above me from the noise and felt a hand on my shoulder. It was what the Lakota people call a spirit. The spirit gave me a sense of relief.
On Saturday during the morning and afternoon, we celebrated my friends birthday. We went to an awesome coffee shop and then to a park with huge ceramic dinosaurs. This weekend was amazing with being in the local community from the ceremonies to Rosa's brother's birthday and then hanging out with the volunteers. I'll fill you guys in on school stuff sometime this week when I have time.
On Saturday during the morning and afternoon, we celebrated my friends birthday. We went to an awesome coffee shop and then to a park with huge ceramic dinosaurs. This weekend was amazing with being in the local community from the ceremonies to Rosa's brother's birthday and then hanging out with the volunteers. I'll fill you guys in on school stuff sometime this week when I have time.
Thursday, February 16, 2012
Frustration Meets Results
The end of January left me frustrated with school and community. I didn't feel comfortable with certain things that were amidst. Now, I've put myself in uncomfortable situations where I have had to be a grown up about things and face my fears head on. Due to numerous serious conversations with two particular friends here I have seen a drastic change in the way that I view my life here.
Last weekend a few of us went to a Lakota sweat over at a medicine man's house. We were invited by the family that we prayed for. Never have I ever felt so a part of a family like this. The next day we went to one of the girls birthday parties. I have two of her cousins and all of the aunts were there. It was awesome because I had never been to a little kid party as an adult. I'm finally being supported by the administration about one of my students. It makes me feel like the rest of this year will be okay.
Tomorrow we leave for retreat with all of the volunteers, all 20 of us. A couple of weeks ago, I did NOT want to go. But now, I feel a lot more comfortable with my own house community and other friendships. I feel like I'm a part of the bigger community-the Lakota community. Now I can teach better, relax in my house, and pour my heart into what I came here to do. Maybe part of this is because I finally had my camp interview with very good results. We'll just have to wait and see what God has in store :)
Last weekend a few of us went to a Lakota sweat over at a medicine man's house. We were invited by the family that we prayed for. Never have I ever felt so a part of a family like this. The next day we went to one of the girls birthday parties. I have two of her cousins and all of the aunts were there. It was awesome because I had never been to a little kid party as an adult. I'm finally being supported by the administration about one of my students. It makes me feel like the rest of this year will be okay.
Tomorrow we leave for retreat with all of the volunteers, all 20 of us. A couple of weeks ago, I did NOT want to go. But now, I feel a lot more comfortable with my own house community and other friendships. I feel like I'm a part of the bigger community-the Lakota community. Now I can teach better, relax in my house, and pour my heart into what I came here to do. Maybe part of this is because I finally had my camp interview with very good results. We'll just have to wait and see what God has in store :)
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
God Works Part II
God does Work.
It's been awhile but here are some blessings in my life lately:
-Being invited to two Lakota ceremonies by a local family
-Getting a package from my parents today which included cookies from my dad and silly song cd's from my mom for my kids
-Getting an email from a student's parent which said, " Abby, I know that this is your first year teaching kindergarten, and I know that dealing with my son has taught you a lot this year especially as your first year, but I wanted to say thank you for all that you do." It's amazing how a year long struggle can be so prosperous. This is why I am here.
-After getting this email, one of my kids came over during nap time, put his head on my lap and promptly fell asleep for a whole 25 minutes
-Getting an email from camp saying thanks for donating money to a scholarship camper and being able to express how much I love Camp T
-Truly intentional talks with people in my community that make my heart happy
The last month I've realized more and more how God has shown himself in my life. I have people that truly and deeply care about my well being. My kids talk about God a lot and it's amazing how beautiful our "God talks" continue to be. One of the student's parents invited me to be a part of a local Lakota ceremony this weekend. I'm excited to get myself out of my comfort zone and explore the Lakota culture. Camp has come back into my life with completing my application for my fourth summer and being able to help send a child to camp for the first year ever. In that way my life has come full circle. I continue to be amazed at how fruitful my life here as a single person has become. This semester so far has brought healing, a new confidence in my abilities, and my love for teaching constantly growing until I think that I will burst.
It's been awhile but here are some blessings in my life lately:
-Being invited to two Lakota ceremonies by a local family
-Getting a package from my parents today which included cookies from my dad and silly song cd's from my mom for my kids
-Getting an email from a student's parent which said, " Abby, I know that this is your first year teaching kindergarten, and I know that dealing with my son has taught you a lot this year especially as your first year, but I wanted to say thank you for all that you do." It's amazing how a year long struggle can be so prosperous. This is why I am here.
-After getting this email, one of my kids came over during nap time, put his head on my lap and promptly fell asleep for a whole 25 minutes
-Getting an email from camp saying thanks for donating money to a scholarship camper and being able to express how much I love Camp T
-Truly intentional talks with people in my community that make my heart happy
The last month I've realized more and more how God has shown himself in my life. I have people that truly and deeply care about my well being. My kids talk about God a lot and it's amazing how beautiful our "God talks" continue to be. One of the student's parents invited me to be a part of a local Lakota ceremony this weekend. I'm excited to get myself out of my comfort zone and explore the Lakota culture. Camp has come back into my life with completing my application for my fourth summer and being able to help send a child to camp for the first year ever. In that way my life has come full circle. I continue to be amazed at how fruitful my life here as a single person has become. This semester so far has brought healing, a new confidence in my abilities, and my love for teaching constantly growing until I think that I will burst.
Monday, January 9, 2012
Too many people grow up. That's the real trouble with the world, too many people grow up. They forget. -Walt Disney
Class is back in session.
Have I told you lately how much I love my kids? Well, I do, a ton.
They are simply wonderful. One of my more rambunctious kids was gone today. It made me really appreciate how much my students have changed behavior wise over one whole semester. This morning I had to do a ton of testing while my aides taught. It was fun too to see how far my aides have come teaching this past semester. It's crazy how much kindergarten students learn over the span of five months. My kids now know geometry, how to write numbers 1-20, over twenty "sight" words, and can now sound out consonant vowel consonant words by blending. Their brains begin to adapt into massive learning sponges. I. love. it.
I've really begun to like teaching kindergarten, as much as I hate to say that. I always swore that I would stay far away from this grade since my mom has taught it for over twenty five years out in Indiana. But, the kids make me want to stay in this grade and at RC forever. I'm already starting to miss my students for next year. They can't leave my class. I'll miss them too much.
Have I told you lately how much I love my kids? Well, I do, a ton.
They are simply wonderful. One of my more rambunctious kids was gone today. It made me really appreciate how much my students have changed behavior wise over one whole semester. This morning I had to do a ton of testing while my aides taught. It was fun too to see how far my aides have come teaching this past semester. It's crazy how much kindergarten students learn over the span of five months. My kids now know geometry, how to write numbers 1-20, over twenty "sight" words, and can now sound out consonant vowel consonant words by blending. Their brains begin to adapt into massive learning sponges. I. love. it.
I've really begun to like teaching kindergarten, as much as I hate to say that. I always swore that I would stay far away from this grade since my mom has taught it for over twenty five years out in Indiana. But, the kids make me want to stay in this grade and at RC forever. I'm already starting to miss my students for next year. They can't leave my class. I'll miss them too much.
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