Teaching in rural Kenya is VERY different from teaching in the states. The classrooms are small with no lights and instead of a smart board and whiteboard, there is a white wall that was painted black for a chalkboard. There are about 40-50 students crammed into the classroom that would hold about 10 at the most in DC. The students caned and the teacher don't always show up to class.
This, however is why I am still in Kenya. I love teaching these students. They are attentive and very eager to learn. I have no classroom management problems- NONE! As a teacher who is used to being part entertainer, part parent, and part teacher, I cannot believe how much I can teach with students who do not act out! My only problem has been getting them to talk! They are so used to just quietly studying or just copying what is on the board, it feels like pulling teeth to get them to answer questions or discuss. They tell David and I they want MORE homework and MORE quizzes. They love any creativity and laugh easily. In many ways, teaching in Ratta is a teacher's dream!
Many of these student will have to drop out because of money problems before they graduate. Graduation here also does not mean college. There is a board of the top student every year for the last 22 years. Out of those 22 years, only 10 students managed to start college. Poverty is a huge issue in Ratta, Kenya, and the world. It hurts to know my eager students who are doing whatever they can to learn as much as they can will not have the opportunities so many of my students in the states that for granted. That I took for granted.
We have been posting a lot of the emotional rollercoaster this year has been. Although I am still on that ride (alas!) I wanted to post something more tangible that we are doing and feeling fulfilled in doing.
We also got our first package today! (Thank you Greg and April!!!) Sending mail takes from 2-4 weeks but here is our address:
Ratta Mixed Secondary School
attn: Amy and Davis Wigger
P.O. Box 132
Kombewa, Kenya, 40102
Hello David & Amy!
ReplyDeleteI'm so glad to hear that your teaching there brings you such joy! What a blessing you are to these children. One thing I have learned (and have to work hard to remember) is that in hardship, God brings life. It's not always easy to see and, at times, it's hard to trust and believe. I'm thankful that you and David have been willing to keep your eyes and ears attuned to God! Will keep you in our prayers! Love to you both!