Today is the start of what we have been preparing for? No matter what was said prior, I was not prepared for today. When we arrived to the first school, we were greeted with students performing in a drum corp complete with baton twirlers. These students come from such poverty and here they are giving us a celebrity welcome. The students who weren’t performing were screaming for us. It truly was like being ‘rock stars.’ I will admit that it brought tears to my eyes. The ‘performers’ were in uniforms that belonged to the school, but they were so proud to be performing for us.
What a way to be welcomed to a school!
In the classroom, the walls were bare with only two or three simple items. The class size was 36 (which is a smaller class size than most). The students were grouped by six and were participating in an economic lesson focusing on productivity. The students were to produce books and create a logo and company name. The group I observed created the company name of “Future of Hope.” This too brought tears to my eyes. These learners want so much out of life and I hope their future does bring hope. When the lesson was over, I kept a copy of one of the books they created and had them sign their names. I will treasure it for many years to come.
Future of Hope...I hope this happens
As a group, we talked to the teachers of the school. The teachers were very frustrated with the overcrowding and lack of support from the government. Does this sound familiar? I know the complaints are at different levels, but they are still similar. One teacher even said (privately) that he preferred teaching during the Apartheid for it was at least consistent. I asked the teachers about technology and I received mixed messages. The school has a computer lab, but I don’t think it is used too often…mainly for lack of knowledge on the teachers’ part. I asked if they train themselves or if they participate in workshops. Remember that South Africa has a very centralized educational structure. Due to this, the Department of Education identifies the needs the teachers have and then provide necessary workshops. These workshops are only offered on holiday or after school hours. Unlike the United States, teachers do not receive professional leave in order to improve their teaching. So many challenges…parents not home, lack of food at home, etc.
As we were leaving the school, the learners wanted our autographs. When was the last time a learner (student) asked for a teacher’s autograph? I am telling you, we were celebrities. I took so many pictures and after each picture showed the learners what it looked like. I am going to send the pictures to the school. I think they will appreciate seeing themselves with the Americans. I was truly mobbed when I was getting on the bus. For some reason, I don’t think I will receive the same treatment when I start school.
My fan club 
The next school we attended was considered a middle class school. The first thing I noticed is that the learners had backpacks. The contrast from the previous school was night and day. The students were very excited to see us. We were greeted with a traditional song. I took a picture of a girl that reminded me of Kaitlynn. This little girl was full of energy, willing to ask questions, and just enjoyed life.
Full of Life
The lesson we observed was a shopping lesson. The students were given the task of doing the grocery shopping with 100 Rand (equivalent of about $13.33) and using current grocery advertisements. The students worked together in groups to determine the best use of their money. I was impressed with the thinking process and the outcome of the groups. I think one group was able to buy 14 items.
The final school we visited in the area was a wealthy school. This school even had a swimming pool. Granted the swimming pool was fenced in, but there was a pool. The classroom was full of color with many posters on the walls. It was such a contrast from our first school. I found it ironic that the lesson at this school was the Wealth Cycle vs. the Poverty Cycle. This school costs the learners about 3,000 Rand per year to attend. These fees include supplies, swimming pool, sports facilities, and the library. I even noticed that the principal had a laptop on his desk.
At least they have a pool
I am including a picture that I took from the outside of the middle class school. Each school has these fenced in grounds and are secured at night. Can you imagine going to school under these conditions? I remember when I was in grade school and there was commotion over a simple chain link fence.
What are your thoughts?
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