Latino Language, Pedagogy and Culture Immersion Institute in Puerto Rico

08/06/09

Nearing the finish line and I finally feel comfortable in this new paradise. We have combined cultures by making friends and opening up ourselves to strangers. We have left a piece of us here, and have taken a piece of here with us. In just this little time, I am changed once again forever. I am fortunate to have such an opportunity and never take these moments for granted. Tomorrow morning has come to soon.

Before visiting the schools, we all had a vision in our head of what it would look like. Quite a few thoughts were pondering in every one's heads. What technology would they have, what classes they offered, what the classrooms looked like, which textbooks they used, and many more. In just a short while, we would have a chance to seek all the answers.

Upon arrival, we were greeted with open arms. The administration and teachers made us all feel welcomed, even having snack and drinks for us. Both times the visit started with an introduction to the school given by an administrator. Afterwards, a question and answer session with teachers and administrators. I enjoyed this time because it gave us time to ask specific questions, including; discipline, subject areas, dropout rate, and extracurricular activities. When all our questions had been answered, we started the tour.

At the Vocational school, we were surprised to see the amount of job specific areas they had. The topics ranged from beautician school, car mechanics, photography, and many more. Many of the classrooms were outdated compared to our public schools. I noticed this most inside the photography classrooms. The schools were both large and very open. Security is not a main issue here, and that is prevalent with the students ability to leave for lunch and the lack of locked doors. They however, do not seem to have nearly as many problems in this area as in our public schools.

Tonight everyone in the class is meeting at my favorite spot, Sluggers. It happens to be directly across from our hotel and they have free wireless access, which has been difficult to get. I look forward to one final night here, with everyone celebrating our shared experience. It will be an interesting experience, with the tiny bar filled with laughter and joy from our small class of Pennsylvania teachers. With time no longer on my side and tomorrow morning looming in my mind, I believe a fiesta is in order!