Linda, Erin, Jan, Joann, and Joanna teach periodically at Silwan Elementary School. Blaine is the teachers' aide. We are there for a half hour each time. The children enjoy having us there. I think they appreciate the different experience and the positive individual feedback we give.
We asked the Jerusalem Center if students could help at Silwan. We were turned down because Silwan is too dangerous. Silwan is in East Jerusalem, and Israelis have built housing in the neighborhood. There is tension between the Palestinians and Israelis that could suddenly erupt into violence. The Israelis would like to have the land in Silwan to excavate as part of the old City of David. The administration was ok with volunteer couples and professors' spouses going there as long as no one felt pressure to go.
Linda is in her element - in charge of the classroom, interacting with the students. Jihan, at the back of the classroom, directs the English program in the school.
This class has 35 students in a small room. Often students have to climb over desks and chairs to get out.
Linda and Erin prepare the lesson plans. We have been teaching 2nd graders for a few weeks, but Erin taught a 3rd grade class today.
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