Today, I had the luxury of having chunks of play-dough hurled at me by a 1st grader. I retaliated by breaking their ruler in half and throwing out the play-dough. Since there are no disciplinary measures in place at our schools, I’ve found the best way to get their attention (or get revenge!) is by confiscating/stealing their things. I may be turning into a klepto. If anyone needs any scissors, play-dough, notebooks, or toy cars, let me know!
I’ve lost my personal chauffeur. Now, like Randi, I have to ride the school bus with the children. Thank god for ipods and headphones! One of my least favorite students is a passenger on the bus, too. He likes to dance around the classroom yelling “shut up teacher”, while sticking his tongue out at me. I may have had one lapse and stuck my tongue out right back.
Note: Turkish children are quite spoiled and undisciplined, especially the eldest son. Also, they tend to only listen to male authority. One boy refused to apologize to Randi for hitting her because she was a woman. Randi says teaching the young ones has made her rethink having children (at least outside of the U.S). Her current plan: 0 children, 1 dog. Also, her need for personal space has increased due to the fact that many children have either rotted black stubs or no teeth at all. She now finds them endearing from a distance.
But things aren’t all bad. There are students that make this experience worthwhile. Today alone, I received 4 cut out paper hearts with the message, “I love teacher Stacy”. Ok, maybe they’re just major suck-ups, but it works! Randi appreciates the love received in between classes when the students run up to greet her.
One of the best things about this experience is the solidarity amongst the female teachers. They’re so sincere, kind, and hospitable. Food and tea are constantly offered to us, as well as smiles and words of encouragement. As we have no interaction with men at school, one grows to appreciate the bonds these women share and how supportive they are of each other.
