things i must get used to.

in numbered order, because it's more fun::

1. unreliable electricity. it often will go out - and with it goes our water source which is accessed by use of an electric pump.

2. the howling of dogs and crowing of roosters between the hours of 3 and 6 a.m.

3. tea / coffee / snack break. every morning at 10:15 all of the teachers are allotted 25 minutes of non-contact time with students. teachers gather in the staff room to consume an African treat and sip on a hot drink. you may ding the bell if you have an announcement for all to hear. laughter is shared before class resumes for the remainder of the day.

4. ensuring that all students wear a hat to the playground. due to the direct sunlight, all students are required to wear a hat when outdoors.

5. teaching the specials. classroom teachers are in charge of teaching art, swimming, p.e., and part of library.

6. students calling me by my first name and being asked phrases in a thick British accent, such as: "Savannah, may i use the toilet?" (the words bathroom and restroom are not used here.)

7. students not wearing shoes in the classroom (due to the dirt and dust it would carry in on our concrete floor).

all such things are part of the adventure!