Tuesday, May 19, 2009

Día del maestro/día del estudiante

    Now that the H1Ni epidemic scare is over, we can get back to what life is really about: celebrating teachers! 
The Day of the Teacher (May 15th this year) is a national holiday here in Mexico, and events range from massive protests in the streets by or against the teacher's union, and get-togethers with fellow teachers.  I met up with some friends for breakfast on Friday, and on the following Monday the school had "breakfast" of chicken, rice, and cake for the staff during the recess time.   There is no difference here between classroom teacher and those who work outside the classroom- everyone belongs to the same union, and everyone celebrates on Teacher Day. 
What surprised me the most were my students, who exhibited a kindness and thoughtfulness that we don't often see in US students.   One student brought a cake for me to class on Monday, and had even remembered to bring plates and spoons for everyone.   On it she had written "Feliz día, maestra" and so everyone ate cake while they took a quiz (Feliz día maestra does not get you out of English class requirements!).   Then, at the end of class, two girls came up with presents for me.  I'm thinking this is a holiday we should export.    
This week on Friday we celebrate student day, which we should also export -most of the seniors are taking the day to do a fun activity with their advisor and their professional team.   

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