Whalmer Township

Tonight we visited one of the townships in Port Elizabeth. We went to a local’s bar and then to the community center where the local children had prepared an entire dance show for us. We had a full course native meal prepared by the local community members. The shacks that surrounded us were everything these people had; they were very proud of what little they have (one of them painted murals on the outside of his home).

Jeffreys Bay

After Kama we took a short drive to Jeffreys Bay; the weather was perfect and all of us headed to shore. All of us were dressed in our school clothes (wished we had our comfy clothes on). Had lunch and did a little shopping. I made sure to bring some sand for my world beaches collection.

Kama Primary

This is where we dropped most of our school supplies. We met the principal yesterday at Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University. The students and teachers knew we were coming and prepared some songs for us. The children are extremely talented in their voices and visual arts. Part of the school was decorated with student-made murals. The Kindergarteners were full of energy; they are the ones jumping in the picture. This principal focused on making the best of what they have; she has established several community connections and parent volunteer groups. She is very open about expecting the community and the members of her network to collaborate with the school.

Touring the town

Our first full day was busy. We took a tour of the town, got to see the business and industrial area, as well as the neighborhoods: we saw anything from nice homes with garages to make shift homes made of boards and tin roofs. No potable water or sewage in some areas, full utilities in others. Neighborhoods are still very segregated both by color and by economic/professional status... nothing new. People are very receptive to our presence; love to show what little they have.

First Day in the Schools

Here are some pictures of our first day in the public schools. It reminded me of my school in Quillabamba. Large student numbers (40+0, one teacher w/o any aids, rural area, one school meal for everyone, uniforms, dusty shoes, happy children and teachers trying to do their best with almost no resources, including professional preparation or on-going professional development. There's unbelievable artistic talent in a great number of these children!

Now that I'm here... (photos below)

Getting here: the flight was long. I would not have done it w/o my donut (broken tailbone that will probably never heal 100%), still a bit uncomfortable. The meals were nice, watched a few movies, didn't read any, had good company while flying, luggage did fine (all the school supplies made it. Thanks everyone!), probably packed too heavy (feels like Spring), might have to do some light shopping for lighter clothes, had a bit of trouble with electrical jacks.. that's now fixed, had a little trouble w/internet... that's now fixed. I'm really looking forward to eating local food tonight; can't wait to start our "activities" tomorrow.

Mon 15: just got settled at the B&B and will go to dinner at 5pm. The place is really nice, Port Elizabeth so far is resembling Lima: the ocean, the board walk, the road next to the ocean, the weather... we'll see about the food.

Cultural observations: Not many so far. People are generally nice and polite.

Observe today in terms of leadership styles, organizational systems, administrative processes or other educational practices? Not yet observed

Most significant learning to date: This is just like any other developing country: obvious contrast between the upscale and the less wealthy. haven't seen extreme poverty yet.

Prior to Leaving

1. My personal goals for the international internship:
Have a rich cultural experience, immerse in the language (colloquialisms), food, customs, ideas, vision, environment, weather, and overall climate of South Africa.
2. Professional leadership goals for the international internship:
See the core of education in its most basic form, removed from luxuries, excess and “fillers” as we often see in our American schools; see functionality and progress with limited resources.
3. Aspects of the culture I particularly hope to observe and study during the trip:
Teacher/student relations (rapport, respect, trust, co-dependency, growth).
Male/female differences in labor, dress, duties, responsibilities, etc.
White/Black relations, differences, points of view, stereotypes, communication, collaboration, etc.
4. Audiences I will share my experiences with upon returning:
My family, my friends, my students, my co-workers, & my administrative leaders.