The labour situation in BC is disheartening. However, that being said my students are quite the opposite. Despite having my salary stolen and fighting for both better classroom conditions and a reasonable salary it is still hard to leave my first school. My four classes this term all presented different challenges, but they all will forever be remembered. My English 11 class, the bulk of which is pictured, will be a class that any future class will be hard to match. They are a dynamic mix of high academic achievers and just wonderfully unique people. There is little doubt on my mind that if they keep on track they will all do well in live. The last week was a testament of straining to get work done. I could not sleep as I thought of how to get things in order for my students and to avoid putting unwarranted stress on them. In the end it was done and within the legal boundaries. I wish it could have been a more slow and sweet departure, versus rushed and bitter in a sense. Regardless, the one lesson learned was that regardless of the labour situation it is the students who make it worth it on a day to day basis.
It is now only 5 and a half weeks until I leave for China. I have begun learning basic Mandarin. It will be a rather difficult proposition once I get to China. The paperwork that need to be completed is staggering. I have to get another criminal record check as evidently 7 months ago was not soon enough? I guess my recent crime spree will be included! It is the little things that continue to amaze me. Clothes, shoes, medicine, etc. These are all things that will not be easily replaced as a relatively tall and big footed man. That being said Maple Leaf Schools have provided a certain level of comfort. They have a welcome package on arrival and the schools location makes shopping at larger centers a relatively convenient proposition.
I will be moving back to the island soon and the final stages of preparation will begin in earnest.
It is now only 5 and a half weeks until I leave for China. I have begun learning basic Mandarin. It will be a rather difficult proposition once I get to China. The paperwork that need to be completed is staggering. I have to get another criminal record check as evidently 7 months ago was not soon enough? I guess my recent crime spree will be included! It is the little things that continue to amaze me. Clothes, shoes, medicine, etc. These are all things that will not be easily replaced as a relatively tall and big footed man. That being said Maple Leaf Schools have provided a certain level of comfort. They have a welcome package on arrival and the schools location makes shopping at larger centers a relatively convenient proposition.
I will be moving back to the island soon and the final stages of preparation will begin in earnest.