Odds & Ends

Very busy week at the office.   

We have enjoyed our classes this term with class sizes ranging from three to eight.  As you'll see staff are dedicated because after they've put in a long day of teaching, they come to our ITEP class. 

TUESDAYS we have class from 3:15 (right after school) until 5:00 p.m. and another one that evening from 6:30 to 8:00 p.m.  

WEDNESDAYS our class runs from 3:15 until 6:15----yes, a three-hour class is long for all of us.  THURSDAYS we have a class from 3:15 until 5:00 p.m.  

WEEKDAYS:  During school hours we prepare and download instruction materials.  We also make a number of class observations, especially for our current two student teachers.  We work hand in hand with the teacher coach who is there to observe, mentor, and guide teachers new to the teaching experience.  It is not an evaluation role and is separate from administration.  This has been a rewarding role.  Our Teacher Coach is a very competent teacher himself with much expertise to share.

Students did not have school Friday so they could participate or attend the rugby and netball tournaments held at Dom Bosco College (high school) here in Savai'i.  Both boys and the girls get to move onto nationals.

A family invited us to attend a dinner Friday evening at their home in honor of their son who just returned from serving his mission in Wellington New Zealand.    It was great to be a part of his family's warm get together with family and friends. 

Elder Salima

Following dinner we attended the church's ward dance held in the hall on campus.  A live band from the north part of the island provided the entertainment.  It doesn't matter how tired a Samoan might be or where they are, if there is a dance, they come alive to the music.  Literally all ages dance and mingle.  Dances are like their favorite thing to do.  We had three little girls holding hands with us in a circle while we all swayed to the island music.  So fun!

The band

Brother Sui Lai getting the dance warmed up.

We've had lots more rain the last couple of days with a rainfall of about 12 inches in 48 hours.  Because the volcanic rock surface is porous, the water drains rather quickly.  Kids still play volleyball no matter how wet.

ONE OF RON'S SUNSETS THIS WEEK:

With the wonder of technology we were able to view our granddaughter's baptism program.  We love and miss our family and friends but remain happy to serve in this Samoan Mission.