So, lesson number 1, 2, and 3 have been dedicated to deciding whether or not I am a “sir” or “ma’am”.
Classes are in full swing, and oh my god, wow. That is really the only way I can describe it. What is most shocking, is I think the kids are actually learning. I teach three separate levels and I have about 130 kids in each class. I’ve got space for about 50. So the kids stand in the aisles, or stand in the window and poke their heads in. Or kids from other classes skip and come stand in the window and watch me because I’m white and that is cooler than a monkey in a zoo.
Things at the lycee are pretty great. The other teachers are all pretty cool. I’m friends with the Arabic teacher. When I told him “my name is Emily” he didn’t respond with the typical “Ameliowa?” Instead, he said “Emily, like Emily Bronte!” And we decided that we both like British Literature and that is very exciting.
I’m also friends with the librarian. A few weeks ago he took Zach and I on a hike through the mountains up to the barage. It was beautiful. I will take pictures next time I go out there.
The lycee is surprisingly organized. I even have to wear a lab coat as part of my uniform. Not sure why a lab coat is necessary to teach english, and when I pointed this out to Claire Kihn, she replied with “well, it’s not like the science teacher are actually doing experiments, either” which is pretty hilarious.
Other than that, nothing too exciting to report. I’m alive and happy and healthy, so life is good.
