Dear Family and Friends,
I want to let you know about an amazing opportunity I have to
travel with a team of teachers to South Africa this summer! I am
so excited to share my love and passion for teaching and helping
students with other educators!
We will be preparing and presenting professional development workshops for teachers who work with students from several schools in areas of extreme need. The workshops will be based on the needs and desires expressed by the teachers participating in the training. Many of the families face unique challenges and the teachers do not have the necessary training to address the student’s academic and social/emotional needs.
Before the trip, our team will study Eric Jensen’s book Teaching with Poverty in Mind to help us prepare appropriate materials to adequately address the needs described by the teachers. As we spend time with educators, community leaders, and children we hope to gain a better understanding of the challenges they face and learn from their experiences. We know the learning will be mutual and relationships will be established. Since we will be learning about the history and culture of South Africa, I will be looking for ways that I can bring this experience back into both my school and classroom.
I plan to send updates throughout my trip via Facebook and Twitter. After returning home, I will also send an email update to share more specific information about my experience!
Thank you in advance for any support you are able to provide; I am looking forward to this incredible opportunity!
Love Always,
Lauren