First Day of Work

Look at us both uniformed and ready for work. Today was my first day of work at my new job! I am very excited to be the new English Enrichment teacher and there is so much for me to go through which is wonderful. There is nothing like coming to a job and having lots of resources. The same could not be said for starting to teach music at Altair last year. I found the programming and lesson plans from the past two years and there are flashcards to the heart's content! I made myself right at home and covered the bulletin board with blue paper and green paper making a sunny day look. I added a fun little smiling sun at the top. I also got my schedule for the year. I have no idea what our schedule is like for the rest of February but I am all set for when I actually start teaching the little ones. It's all good. I will be getting the February schedule tomorrow. I really can't complain about organization because it is on point. I received a bag full of office supplies and a notebook and binder for programming. Both Julie and I are very content and impressed. Obviously, we both had very different experiences at our old schools.

The morning started off with a mass. Julie and I participated in the ofertorio or the offering. I gave the chalice that holds the bread to the father. I really like the fact that the director of the school is accepting that we are not Catholic. We respect mass when we are obligated to go to it but you won't find me going every morning in February. (Yes, there is mass at 7:30am every morning until school starts.) I personally, enjoy listening to sermons when they are well presented and thoughtful. I have heard some excellent sermons this past year and I have also heard some really terrible ones. It's all about the father and his personality and interpretation. Also, I find that mass is a good time to have some meditation. I take time during prayer and communion to close my eyes, give thanks, and clear my mind. It's very nice.

Unpacking and organizing. I love it!

After mass we had a breakfast and the new staff was introduced. I would have really liked to do an introduction of myself so that I wouldn't have to repeat myself over and over answering the typical questions: How long have you been here? Where are you from? Do you like Peru? Do you speak Spanish...etc. I didn't have too much time to answer them too many times before heading off to the kinder building. We had a quick meeting and then had the morning to set up our rooms and offices. I have my own office on one side of a divider and there are two teachers on the other side who teach religion and communication. Both of them have been super helpful. I have felt very included and I think I am really going to like my job.

At 1pm Julie stopped by and we headed to lunch. We were free to go at 1pm which was great. She and I caught up and I showed her how to get to her place via bus. Honestly, I think the metropolitano is going to be the best option for the both of us. This morning I hopped on an expreso 1 at 7:15am and was in the door at school at 7:30am. Not bad if I do say so myself!

I am going to have to think of something to put under the welcome sign. Suggestions would be appreciated!