Friday!

Two days in and everyone is already exhausted! It's a wonder KIPP teachers have this schedule day after day, year after year...

Since today was a Friday, school let out at two instead of five. The high school students were finishing up their mid term exams (history and Spanish) and most middle school students had regular classes. I personally spent my day working on the high school yearbook. Other students observed classes, graded exams or benchmarks, or did tracking for teachers.

Because the weather was so nice (and we were wearing our matching AWB shirts!) we all decided a midday photo shoot was in order. Pictures to come perhaps?

After lunch most of the group headed to the gym to watch the Pride High's assembly. It was so exciting to see how enthusiastic the students were toward each other. The school band did a tribute to Micheal Jackson in addition to a variety of jazz pieces. Then the gospel choir preformed. The assembly ended with open mic performances by a few students. Okay, okay, it doesn't sound that exciting. But it really was! All the students seemed to know each other and really support each other. Compared to the assemblies in my high school, the KIPP assembly had a lot more energy.

Our reflection again highlighted the complex issues surrounding education. What truly motivates students? How do you create a sustainable model for rural teachers? Is "teaching to the test" bad? The questions seem endless.

For dinner we went to Cici's ($2.99 all you can eat?!) with students and teachers. Mingling amongst them was both informative and enjoyable! The relationships they have created with students are so inspiring.

Up early again tomorrow for our service day. Hopefully the weather is just as nice as today!

-Alicia