School in Kabul

I believe that everyone who really knows me knows that I love teaching. I've been reminded of it these past few days as I have visited both Math and English classes at the IFHope school. The girls have class in the morning and the boys come for the afternoon session. Maybe we should try that? Each session is made up of 6 classes but they don't have the same schedule every day. It's a bit complicated.

Class sizes are typically around 30 students and they are crowded into small classrooms. They have textbooks and notebooks and the teachers use white boards for presentation. No overheads, computers, projectors or SmartBoards. We are VERY spoiled teachers. And the pay is not very good. But the teachers are dedicated and they are doing the best with what they have. They have shown me great hospitality, even preparing special Afghan food for me at Tea Time yesterday. It's called "Mantu", a kind of ravioli served with chickpeas and a sauce, with yogurt and mint on top. It was delicious! I find that in many ways the students are the same as ours: they talk in class (when they shouldn't), they forget their books at home, and are just a bit playful. One of the boys today asked me if I preferred a student who was relaxed and intelligent or rather one who works hard but is not so intelligent! LOL I said I preferred one who works hard and is intelligent!! He reminded me of one of my own students. I have one more day at the school. It's been so much fun! Enjoy the photos.