School Time Table

As a volunteer, I spend a lot of time looking at my school and thinking about what should be done better. A lot of what I view as areas needing improvement have to do with a lack of resources, and some of the rest has to do with cultural things, like little parental involvement. My teachers don’t have access to resource books, copiers, and all of the other things that make running interactive activities easier in the States. And the parents at my school aren’t like the parents I remember from being in primary school. I still remember being in first grade, having Dad read about Mama Mama Hucklebuck and Papa Papa Hucklebuck and Pony Pony Hucklebuck. I remember all of the class parties my Mom did. And I remember other parents – the Mothers’ desk at St. John’s; parents volunteering to read and help with field trips and even do the Art sessions in Class 6. Here, no gat. The parents have to work in the gardens.

But one thing I want to say: my school starts on time. I wish my teachers used their curriculum books less, but they're responsible and professional. The kids on Tongariki get all of the contact hours that they're supposed to have. And the kids show up to school, too. They don't take random holidays just because they don't want to go to school.

I’m saying this because I was just at a school that isn't like this. And, talking to a few other volunteers, my situation—of a school that runs when it’s supposed to—is not really that common throughout Vanuatu. You know, we’re all just fish who can’t see the water we’re swimming in. I focus a lot on the things that need improvement at my school, but compared to this other school I visited, Tongariki is doing a lot of great things. This other school, the kids weren’t starting their English periods until 8:30 or 8:45 in the morning, and several of the teachers just … weren’t at school.

My time is winding down on Tongariki. I’ve done a lot of good stuff and there’s always stuff to do. But I think it’s time to start looking at the positive things about my service and not obsessing over the fact I'm the only one excited about reading corners.