More Photos of the ITE Experience

So far, the trip has gone great.  We had a few boat problems today, but eventually we got them worked out.  Here are some pics of the trip.  I may have to add them slowly since it is taking a very long time to post pics.

Margaret Pentecost

Our First Day in the Schools!

Today was our first day teaching in the schools. Our student teachers did a great job of appreciating cultural differences while also acknowledging similarities. Some got to view students practice for an upcoming talent show, some taught totally on their own, and some assisted their teachers. Although there was a wide range of experiences, everyone got to work with the students and is enthusiastic about our return after the national holiday!

Chelsey Dietrich:

Today was our first day in Belize schools. In some ways it was so different from schools in the states. First, there was no air conditioning. It was definitely an adjustment. Second, there is no technology used while teaching. Everything is written on the chalk board. The students here were very similar to our students. They were eager to learn and, once they got used to us, they were very chatty. I can’t wait to get back into the classroom and get to know everyone better!

Tyler Morris:

Going into our first day, I think all of us were pretty nervous. At least I was. But the students at Georgetown Technical High School could not have been more welcoming, funny, and easy to work with. My mentor teacher, Mr. Gentle, is going to be an incredible resource throughout my time here. Even though I found out most of my lesson plans needed to be reworked, I could not be more excited to start teaching classes by myself on Wednesday and teach a group of wonderful, intelligent students.

The Adventure Continues . . .

We started off the day by visiting the Mayan ruins, which are historical, widely known, pre-Columbian archaeological sites. After climbing to the top of a ruin, seeing some howler monkeys above us in the trees, and soaking in some history and culture, we had lunch and headed to Cardie’s, in Independence. 

Tonight we had a Welcome Reception for the teachers and administrators in the schools where we will be teaching tomorrow. Our students had the chance to meet one on one with the teachers they will be working with. Everyone was excited to get to know each other and is looking forward to being in the classrooms tomorrow.

We Have Arrived!

We arrived in Belize this afternoon. After enjoying lunch in Belmopan and driving through scattered villages filled with life and energy, we reached Cahal Pech. The resort overlooks mountains, cabanas, and exotic nature. After a day of smooth travel, everyone is relaxing and taking some time to settle in. We will eat dinner outside as the sun sets. Everyone is happy to be here and looking forward to the adventures ahead.

 

Olivia Kaiser:

When we walked into our resort, the first thing I noticed was a man selling jewelry. I started talking to the artist, and not only did he create the jewelry and carve, but he also took the time to talk to us and tell us about the Mayan culture. I bought some of his jewelry not only because of its appeal, but because of the personal connection and memory it will always symbolize. Just after being here one afternoon, I have already been exposed to the culture and cannot wait to keep exploring.

Mindy Smith:

The culture here is modernized but authentic. As we drove through Belize, the bright colors of the small houses and buildings combined with the personalized way of living and communicating, created an overall energetic and happy feeling. Something I noticed is that they rely much less on transportation than we do. They walk to each other's houses and sit on their porches, just living slow, living in the moment, enjoying each other, and enjoying the beauty of the country.