When the alarm went off today at 5:45AM it was definitely a shock to the system, but soon the adrenaline kicked in and we were ready to go. The first day of school is a big day around here and it was a pretty cool experience to witness. First of all the kids show up with flowers for their teachers - it's a tradition around these parts. Can you believe that? SHS friends - when was the last time you got flowers without them being attached to a schedule change request? :) Anyway, after the universal squealing and hugging inherent to all adolescents on the planet, the entire student body gathered in the auditorium for an assembly. The first thing they did was introduce the new teachers. We all got up on stage and the kids went crazy - also something that I don't remember happening at home, but let me tell you, it was nice. After that, they go through the normal rigmarole and then the coolest part happened: I'm not sure if all of you know, but ACS has five grades, so there are 8th graders on campus. 8th grade is a prep year where the kids receive pretty intensive ESL classes to prepare them for the work they will do in high school. Anyway, at the assembly, the 8th graders come in at the end and go up to the stage and all the upperclassman give them a standing ovation. It is SO cool. It really gives you chills! Anyway, after that, it was off to work. I didn't have any classes today because my keyboarding class is for 8th graders and they take a diagnostic test on the first day of school in order to place them into the correct English level. This allowed me to get a ton of work done and I feel as ready as I'll ever be for tomorrow. Actually, tomorrow I see both the 8th graders and my IB English class - very fun! Also, I already have some senior signed up to meet with me about college in the morning. I'm really looking forward to meeting them.
Pete had a great first day. He only had one class and, you guessed it, the actually was a Stanaslov in his class. For those of you who don't know, Stanaslov has been Pete's imaginary student the past six months while preparing to teach in Bulgaria. I have a Stanaslova in class tomorrow. Pete said the kids were great - they seemed really nice. I'm sure there will be more stories to come.
We heard from Kate and Syd and they are exploring Amsterdam right now. I can't wait to hear stories! Mostly I can't wait for them to get here! Loves to all!
This is a picture of my office wall ... Can you tell I'm thinking about all of you all the time?
Here are the kids gathering outside of school before class.
Pete in his Brittish Importer clothes and me in my suit - ready for the first day :)
Kris and Greg - two of our new friends. Greg's the one who looks exactly like Ben Stiller - although I'm not sure if this picture captures it.
View of the auditorium when we were up on stage.
The 8th graders on stage.
Onda! My new favorite place ... the coffee shop on campus! :)
1 comment:
Wow, you guys look so good! How fun...and all the students are so pretty!
okay...where's the snyder baby shrine on your office wall ;).
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