Thursday, our last day with the kids, brought us a mix of emotions. As we made our way over to ECC, we made a quick stop at “Party Time” to get the kids some treats and little toys. Our prep time was used wisely, helping to document all of the programs on our group’s eight computers and making sure all our new equipment was inventoried. All four of our classes were feeling more comfortable with the technology already and their rapid achievement since Monday was apparent. In our first class, the kids were all working individually with a laptop, Hooked on Phonics game, Vtech, or watching an ABC slideshow. Ms. Mel made sure to document what items worked for what kids and was excited to dig through more of the new equipment to continue to use with the children. It was an awesome week with that group. We were lucky enough to have some kids talk to us that had not before, another we discovered knew all his ABC’s and how to spell his numbers, even though he never spoke to us. Every member of the class improved in some way, even if it was as simple as us being able to engage him in a slideshow. It was hard to leave these little 3-7 year olds and I know all three of us did not want to let go when they gave us our goodbye hugs.
Our second class was awesome as always, too. They all had their own laptops today and had a variety of software to choose from. We found it exciting that the majority chose to work on typing software, in order to excel in their skill level and speed. We assisted Ms. Amanda in downloading all the software appropriate for her class’ skill level on her new laptop and trust that they will all continue to use and benefit from the equipment we brought. They shared their life skills school work with us, as we got to try all the delicious Christmas cookies they had made! The highlight of this class was definitely their Christmas performance they shared with us at the end, though. It was their own Bohemian version of “We Wish You a Merry Christmas,” and the class even made up their own lyrics! There were drummers, dancers, and singers; it was a truly amazing performance by this talented class!
The next class we were supposed to have was busy working with the IT and video media groups all week, so during this time we had a little instructional class with the teachers and Ms. Lyn. We made sure all of the teachers felt comfortable with the new equipment and software, and with Ed’s help we taught them how to use the very useful Personal Response System. This assists the teachers in engaging the class in a game like manner, so that they can instantly evaluate how much of the class understands new concepts. Each child gets a remote and is able to key in the answer they believe is correct to the question shown on the projector. It is a valuable item and a great way to review class material. We really hope all the teachers take full advantage of it, even after we leave.
Our fourth class also had all of their own laptops again today and continued to enjoy all of the software. In this class their favorites seem to be math and typing, and I know Ms. Kim is also excited about the science and spelling software! It was great to see Ms. Kim’s enthusiasm about all the new opportunities her class will receive through this technology. We helped her get all of the software her class was using on her new laptop, also. Once again, their improvement was noticeable and we were so thrilled about how quickly all the kids caught on to using the new technology.
We ended our time at ECC with a skit performed by Mr. Mar’s class. They demonstrated the struggles they go through and the stigma brought on to them for going to this school. They were determined to only let the negative make them stronger, however, and expressed how proud they are of themselves and each other. It is clear how close of a community this is and how welcoming they are with everyone. This was truly something I know we will all remember forever. Ms. Lyn thanked us and the children gave us generous thank you gifts. She extended a warm welcome to any of us wanting to come back as volunteers or teachers, and I know many of us would love to work with these wonderful kids again. It was a bittersweet ending, but we all learned a lot from these children that will stick with us through the days to come. They are a symbol of hope, motivation, and determination and we are all so thankful to have had this opportunity.
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