At the end of the day, these 4-year-olds pack up their backpacks and prepare to head home, excited to show the adults in their lives their schoolwork. The children learn they are valued and have unique gifts to share with others.
Carlos* is excited to get working on his Spanish homework, “Lengua español”. It is a common practice in the Dominican Republic for students to copy homework into their mascotas.
*Name changed
Teacher Diana instructs the 2nd graders in math concepts. It is critical that the children learn solid math skills, something that is challenging for many of their older family members. They also learn respect and self-control as they wait to be called upon.
Settling into math class after recess, the 1st graders have formed friendships that will last for years.
It is important that the students trust their teachers so that when they have a problem or question, they feel free to ask for help. Teacher Myra works hard to connect with the 4th graders.
Most children in the school do not have access to health care services. Since fluoride is not in the water and toothpaste is expensive, many little ones have numerous cavities. The directors hope to provide preventative dental coatings and help improve children’s dental health.
The 5-year-olds sit at tables which allows the teachers to move about and help them in small groups. Most students do not have paper and pencils or crayons in their homes, so practicing is critical at school.
Santo Domingo North School provides a very good basic education to the students. North American teachers volunteer their time for a week to strengthen and encourage the staff. The children directly benefit as their teachers try new ideas and encourage new skills.
Many of the youngest children have the opportunity to learn basic discipline skills as they enter the school – sitting in a chair, following the teacher’s instructions, asking for permission to use the bathroom. Confidence and trust-building starts with these very basic activities.