Last day of Spanish class

Today was my last day of Spanish class! I have learned so much about the language and can comprehend a lot when I read. It still takes me a while to understand when someone is talking, but I am improving. I need to continue practicing even when I return home so I don't lose the progress I've gained. 

Class with the kids went well today. I taught them several verbs and how easy it is to conjugate in English as compared to Spanish. We played a game with a kickball where they had to complete various actions with my commands. The 6th graders are really taking to the language instruction well. I was giving commands at random during class such as "stand up," "clap," or "wave," and they remembered most of the words. One boy named Samir is learning very quickly and loves to talk to me in English showing off his skills to the other kids. 

This Saturday morning, the 6th graders are having a party at school and have invited me. As far as I can tell, they have been saving up money and will wear special costumes, dance, and eat food. I learned today that the 4th grade teacher is only 19 years old and just finished her schooling a few months ago. The 5th grade teacher was not there today, so the director was subbing for her. I presented one of the classes with the donations I had brought from home, and they were very excited. I am going to pick up the rest of the donations tomorrow with the money I collected. 

There are more volunteers and students for the Spanish classes showing up every week - from England, Canada, Atlanta, Los Angeles. It's great to see so many people reaching out to help and sharing in this amazing experience with me. 

Tomorrow, I will spend the whole day with the kids at school. In the morning, I will work with 1st-3rd graders, and after lunch will be back with the usual students. I am looking forward to meeting some new students and teaching them a little about the language before I leave. 

Spanish phrase of the day: "no te preocupes" which means "don't worry about it." Argentina has been using this with me a lot lately when I struggle to understand what she is trying to tell me!