teaching in the pre-k

I mentioned before that I have been working in the pre-k. Just a recap…every afternoon from 130 until about 4, I am helping in the Kinder 2 class. Kinder 2 here consists of 6-7 year olds. Public education is not free here in the Philippines. Therefore, the students at Sonshine Learning Center are on scholarship. The scholarship provides them with their education, 1 meal and transportation to and from school. There are two classes. Ma'm Rose and Ma'm Diadem are the teachers.

I am helping in Diadem’s class. I love this opportunity because I am learning so much. If you know me, you know that I really love to teach. There is just something about using the talents that God has given you as a form of worship to Him. Teaching here gives me energy and I am really having so much fun. I love being able to work with Diadem because she is so good with the kids and I am learning a lot from her. It is also great that I am able to bring new and different ideas to assist in teaching the kids.


Working here really helps me to realize how blessed we are in the school systems in the US, especially Howard County (where I have had most of my teaching experience). We have so many supplies and resources to use in our schools. I really think that I took all of that for granted when I was teaching. The essential things in every U.S. classroom i.e. dry erase boards, computers, a reading corner, etc. the students in the Philippines do not have. The supplies that the kids do have were donated (a large majority from Ilchester Elementary school!). Despite the limitations, the kids are grateful and so eager to learn!


Another thing that is different is that the students don’t learn how to read or write in their own language. 80% of the class is taught in English. Can you imagine being explained fractions in a language that you do not primarily use? This also makes things like explaining the proper use of “me,” “mine,” “my,” “you,” “your,” and “yours” a little more difficult. (Can you tell that I had especially fun lessons to teach this week?) What I have noticed is that the students are very fast learners and they continue to impress me.

Overall, I am loving my time back in the classroom and I just wanted to share that with you. Thank you again for all that you have done to help get me here!