Collaboration, Culture, and Cafes

Wendy and I started our day by observing a geography class. Although the teacher conducted the class in Arabic, we could follow the lesson with the maps in the book and the help of Rayhane, who explained in English what was happening. What energy the teacher and students had in the class!  The entire period was a rapid-fire lecture with questions and answers. So many of the students hands shot up yelling "teacher, teacher" to answer her questions. There wasn't a moment lull. The excitement to learn was invigorating.  It is clear that learning material in their native language is easier of course, and the students responded so positively to the teacher. I actually noticed so many more boys participating in this class than in the English class. Are they more confident in the subject matter?  Do they find geography more interesting? It was so enlightening to sit in a class that was taught in another language yet with the use of images, body language, and observation, still be able to comprehend some material.


Near the end of the class we were able to share some details about tornadoes-- Wendy elaborated on this as she is from Kansas-- and I spoke a little about population shifts in our nation and Arctic air pushing down in the winter. When I saw the teacher in the teacher's lounge, I gave her the map of Michigan I brought. I know that many things can be found on the computer, but since I still like to use physical props, I hope she will enjoy this.

The next hour Wendy and I worked in more detail on our team-teaching lesson. Youssef has been teaching about cultural values and is now moving to citizenship. We discussed the culture text from his book, and then said we want to continue to share with them about our culture.Wendy had the students make a T-chart, and write similar on one side and different on the other. Then, as she presented her PowerPoint about Kansas, her life, and her school, we asked the students to write down what they noticed was similar to their own country and then of course what was different. iPhone-- similar. Corn-- similar. Sunflower-- similar. Music class-- different. Football-- different. Lunch at school-- different. It's funny, we presented the same lesson to three classes, and I just like in my own classes at home, in one class it was more of a struggle, in one class they had such serious and deep insights, and in another class they were lively and fun. I even caught two kids using their phones in class-- that's similar!  The last period of our lesson we shared our appreciation and gifts with Youssef for being such a great host showing us the culture and education of Nador.

After the lesson Rayhana asked for a picture and gave us each a beautiful key chain with Moroccan designs. She is truly a special student who leads many activities at the school, including coordinating our welcome reception last Friday. 

In addition to team-teaching with Wendy today, I had the chance to teach emotions to Lahbib's junior level students. Some of the sophomore students also came into the class, so we had at least 50 kids in there! And since they were at different levels, I had to try to adapt this lesson on the spot. The first thing we did was discuss the emotions-- what does exhausted mean?  what does enraged mean?  what does jealous mean? I tried to get the older students to explain to the younger students the terms. For my students reading this, I am sure you know that for every emotion I dramatically expressed this feeling. I pounded on the desk to show I was enraged, I practically fainted to show exhaustion, you all get the idea. Then, after this, I asked them to write a sentence or a very brief dialogue using the term, and then to show the emotion. Wow, what courage, what actors we have in this group!  I know that many of the Stevenson students present skits in front of the class frequently for in their Spanish, French, German, or Japanese classes so I was trying to model this. I thought the kids did a great job and it was so much fun presenting.

During our two-hour lunch break Youssef took us to the university near the high school where we met with a science teacher who showed us the research labs and the incredibly modern equipment. This was such a beautiful, modern facility and campus. I loved how bright white the buildings are, which is how the other schools are as well. This is what the city hall likes for government buildings, white. It added to the scientific element as a pristine presentation demonstrating the value of excellence here. Although we toured the science labs, law, humanities, languages, and other typical courses of liberal arts college are offered here.     

Lastly, but certainly not least, we joined Youssef, Lahbib, and their colleagues from the middle and primary school at the cafe near the school for happy hour of coffee. Here we held deep philosophical conversations. Similar or different?  The similarity is that I often discuss current event issues and other intelligent subjects with my teacher-colleagues, but if it is after work, it is most likely a discussion over a beer-- different.

In this philosophical forum we discussed change in the youth in Morocco in that students are not as respectful to the teachers and adults. Similar, huh?  We discussed the problem with media and technology. Similar, huh?  They asked us exactly what is meant by the American Dream. They asked us if we teach our students about the crimes Columbus committed against the natives, and the British and Americans continued after him. And what about English?  Lahbib is working on his dissertation regarding linguistic imperialism of English, and asked us about ten interview questions, which Youssef recorded on his phone. Do I understand this term? Do I think Great Britain and the United States are trying to force the language in other countries, do I think this is an effect of globalization, what do I think the future of the English language is?  Wow, what intellectual engagement!  What a thoughtful exchange of ideas. I am so thankful to have had this meeting and truly wish we had time for more conversations like this.
I have no photos of this scene, and I am glad. The best experiences are simply remembered :)

A Different World

The sun was shining, the students were smiling, as we were welcomed with figs and milk, a traditional treat for guests. Then, we were ushered to the courtyard where all of the students gathered to sing the national anthem, while Wendy and I raised the flag. Later the Head Master presented all of the female teachers with a rose for International Women's Day. When I return, my own students will find their teacher has become a diva. A royal. A star. I trust they will treat me accordingly!

We had a few great classes where I was able to see Youssef teach about phrasal verbs (prepositional phrases) and then I presented about Stevenson.The kids seemed very interested in seeing our school, and today I saw my school through the eyes of others. My school, a typical suburban high school in America. Vast athletic fields, modern gyms and a fitness center, the wide hallways with painted murals, the numerous modern computers, the stacks of books in the LMC. Here in Nador, the school just opened in September yet they have no books in their library and no computers in the classrooms. There isn't even a computer for the teacher in the room! Youssef had to borrow the "stick" from the principal that he plugs into his computer to get wi-fi to show this students a Youtube clip. There is a very nice courtyard for basketball and other sports, but nothing at all like our athletic facilities. Do we emphasize athletics more than academics?  The students walk to school and can take the public busses, so the idea of their own car is truly foreign for them, yet they saw the SHS parking lot in the slideshow with the student cars. What were they thinking? That our students are rich?  That they have so much? We do have so much. We may say we need this, we need to drive everywhere, and maybe we do, but maybe we don't. Is it better to have the most recent computers and shelves, and shelves of books, an indoor track and treadmills, or be fluent in four languages, complete complex engineering schemes without a calculator, and know the philosophers Hegel, Kant, and Descartes?  I say a global citizen needs both.

Everything here needs funding and permission from the Ministry of Education. Everything is a bureaucracy. Everything is difficult if not impossible to change. The teachers follow the textbook, chapter by chapter, section by section, question by question. The theme of centralization is also evident in that we need permission from the Ministry in Rabat to go to any school. The paperwork must be sent. The paperwork must be signed. Today Youssef and the Vice Principal took us to the oldest high school in Nador, opened in I believe 1979, and since the paperwork hadn't been approved, we could not visit classes.  The reason they don't have the books or the computers or the counselors is not really a money issue, it is that all of the permission most first come from Rabat, the delegation, etc. In the U. S. we change quickly, spontaneously, too fast, too much, but we do change, we do innovate. If our current Common Core, Smarter Balance, approach is truly to move towards centralization, we may be in much more trouble than I had thought.

I have had the opportunity to present to a few different classes today, and now tomorrow we will learn from Wendy about Kansas. If there is time, I would like to have the students write what they think it means to be a Moroccan and to share what my students wrote it means to be an American. Inshallah, as they say. God willing.

Around the Mountains to the Sea

Sunday fun day!  Youssef and Robin met us at the cafe attached to our hotel, and after seeing Robin off at the bus station, he took Wendy and I to the sea. What a beautiful drive! We drove about 80 kilometers (about one hour) east of Nador to Youssef's favorite beach: Cape de l'eau.

Look at that sky!  Look at the land! There is nothing like a road trip to excite your sense of wonder. 

The long and winding road...  

What do you think, is this like Arizona? Wyoming? California?  Today as we drove along, I had flashbacks of road trips taken in the past, in my youth especially. Forever young, that is what travel does for me, keeps me forever young, with a new perspective, and a fresh outlook.

Good thing I put on sunscreen before we left, as it was blinding on the beach. On another note, there were so many sea shells along the beach. It wasn't only the amount of shells that amazed us, but how in tact they were. Few were broken, and they were all so thickly, perfectly shaped. Of course we collected a few souvenirs :)

Wendy calls him the Amazing Youssef!  Thanks to the amazing Youssef, we had an amazing day!

Fishermen are out mending their nets. The old Renault car sitting there is also a relic from the past. I wonder if I went to Maine, Alaska, or New Foundland, if I would see a similar scene.

Hola Spain! Yes, these islands are owned by Spain. Actually, here in the north, most people speak and understand Spanish more than French. 

We saw a few random donkeys on the side of the road. Actually, it isn't all that rare for us to see donkeys in the city as well, often pulling a cart. We also see random herds of goats, yet even in the city on empty plots of land next to a brand new villa. The old and the new blend so naturally here.

                                                Thanks Youssef for insisting on taking pictures.


And now after a day of fun in the sun, I am getting ready to turn-in for the night. We have an early day tomorrow. Apparently every Monday at 8:00 the students stand in the courtyard and sing the national anthem while raising the flag. All 450 students of the school!  The taxi is coming to get us at 7:30 so Wendy and I can make it for this event. We may even get to raise the flag!  I can't wait to get back to the school with the students and staff. The weekend can't last forever...

A Day to Remember

Today Youssef and Robin (the IREX director of our program who is here for just a few days) picked us up at our apartment and we headed straight to the school. We met with administrators, visited an English class (level one), and of course took many photos. Since today is Saturday, the school ends at noon. And since today is Saturday, we visited the local market. Here one can by second-hand clothing, products from Europe-- especially Spain since we are so close to the Spanish enclave Melilla-- plants and herbs, fruits and vegetables, eggs, dried fruits, nuts, various species of fish, meets hanging from hooks, live chickens to choose, as well as rabbits. This was such a busy, bustling scene, and one that the Health Department in our country would shut down in minutes!  Please know I do not say this because I think it was unsanitary. It wasn't at all. On the contrary, it made me reflect on our hypersensitivity to hygiene in the U.S.  We have so much sterility that what is natural has become taboo and what is unnatural is preferred.

The highlight of the day without a doubt, was the journey to the region near Mediterranean Sea, across the valley, zigzagging around the mountains, through this village, over this stream. Here we were close to where Youssef grew up. Here we experienced the traditional Amazigh (Berber) culture by visiting Youssef's friend, Youssef #2, who graciously hosted us for a mid-day meal.

Old-fashioned stone oven

Traditional Amazigh dish designed with the symbol and flag of the people

Our friendly host Youssef #2. He is studying law and speaks Spanish, Arabic, German, French, 

 and Tamazight (Amazigh language). He speaks just a little English. Of course, kindness 

transcends language and sharing his culture with us was expressed in the unique

memorabilia displayed in his family's cafe. 

 Gotta love the old-school glass Coke bottle with Arabic letters sitting next to our tangine meal. 

 Today's couscous was a dessert. It tasted like maize and oatmeal cooked in butter sort of, with cinnamon and sugar. It was a yummy dessert, but would also make a great breakfast.

Youssef #1 and I standing next to the stone artwork of the Tamazight letter for Z. He is the man of the hour. The man on a mission-- a mission to show us his culture, his life, his work. He took us to the market today, treated us to a tea at his favorite cafe, showed us the town in which he attended middle school, sang in the car to his favorite songs, explained the Rif region and its people, his people. He is friendly, smart, and fun. He is not only my new colleague, 
but most importantly, he is now my friend :)

This little guy entertained us for a few minutes, and yelled loudly at me when he thought I wanted his banana. There were also many chickens, rabbits, and pheasants around this old house. I think one of them may have ended up on our table tonight actually ;)

Traditional woven fabrics of the Amazigh, and cushions low to the floor
for sitting in this living space. 

And here is the entrance to this mountain side cafe, hidden in the trees. This young man helps with parking. We saw other young boys selling bunches of asparagus on the road sides. This is just a bit different than playing x-box or basketball all day with your bros.

Amazigh artwork painted on the door. The point/dotted technique is reminded me
a lot of Aborigine artwork.

Dried henna in a ceramic container. The tabel on which it rests if Youssef #2's collection of money from around the world. Yes there are U.S. dollars, and Argentine too!

 This beautiful artwork reminds me of Bavarian styles I have seen in Munich.  I love making connections and comparing styles. I would also love to study art more so, and even teach a full humanities course one day. Just so you know... :)

Allow me to introduce you all to Robin. She is our Teachers for Global Classrooms director, meaning she coordinates all of our travel logistics, acts as a liaison with the host teachers, and just supports us in anything we need before departure and now while here in our field experience. She has a great spirit, a true love of learning, and is an outstanding representative of our country.  Robin rocks!

A Gracious Welcome

Wendy and I could not agree more that we have truly hit the jack-pot with our host school placement. Youssef is kind and helpful. His concern for our well-being and that we are comfortable is warming. Today he hosted us at his house for Friday couscous. This is quite symbolic for Friday is for Moslems similar to Sunday for Christians. As he said, “today we share couscous together”.  I felt part of his family today, and I thank him for this experience. And the couscous, was incredible. We ate it together from the same dish. We are collective as Youssef says.  Yes, collective, communal, collaborative.

In our plans at the school for the day Youssef is organized yet flexible. We spent two class periods with him, and then another class period with his colleague. Youssef and his students discussed cultural misunderstandings, so we shared this with his students. One student asked us many questions about Canada, such as the U.S. relations with our neighbor, and what social problems our nations face. Another student asked me what my view of the Sahara is. Uh-oh…!  Our maps show Western Sahara as separate, but it is not to Moroccans. Actually, it is an important point of contention with their neighbor Algeria. I told the students this is one of the many great reasons to travel to other places so that we can learn the truth of one’s viewpoint first hand.

We also spent time today meeting with his head master, the president of the parent committee, the vice principal, the administrator of attendance and discipline, and other school leaders. Although we were asked questions about American education, including addressing one about school violence or discipline issues,  I didn't feel like a teacher in this setting, but as an American diplomat representing my nation while striving to understand the viewpoint of those of another nation. And as Youssef and his colleague translated, I desperately wished I could speak Amazerigh (a.k.a Berber) to truly understand. Partnerships. Collaboration. This is what we are building-- this is what we are achieving. 

Like me, Youssef is not only open to global views and culture, but he is passionate about this subject. And also like me, he is passionate about his region and country. He was clearly proud to show us his school, his home, his city, his life. He is eager to expose his students to kids in other schools and countries through Skype, email, Youtube, and social media. Of course, Wendy and I are one way for him to bring the world to his classroom. I believe it was Youssef who said that many of these students have never met Americans. Today I thought of my own students often, wishing they were here to feel the warmth expressed by Youssef, the school staff, and all of the Moroccan students. Everyone was so genuinely excited to see us. I can't tell you how many invitations Wendy and I had for dinner. The president of the parent association has invited us over for tomorrow night! I was truly exhausted at the end of the day from the attention, and from all of the pictures taken. Today I felt like President Obama, or make that Mohammad V!  

And what a royal welcome we had!  After the school day ended, the English club and other students presented to us what a traditional Amerizigh wedding looks like. As soon as we arrived the girls were so proud and confident to greet us in their special occasion dress, typically these are worn to weddings and for Eid. I thought of how the girls in the U.S. feel in their prom dresses. After many photos with the girls, we were ushered to the multipurpose room, where eager parents, teachers, and students waited. Once the wedding party arrived, the collective singing and drumming began. The youthful innocence and the festive display of cultural pride was so touching. I am pretty sure I saw Wendy tearing up. We were both encouraged to participate with the girls when they applied henna to our hands, explaining that the is what the women do the night before the wedding (no men allowed!) This moving ceremonial show was followed by the traditional spread of Moroccan tea with delectable pastries. Sure, I will have another cup of tea, and just one… more... cookie…

After our tea and cookies I had the chance to share my passion about my own region, the great state of Michigan.  I am now confident that when the students, staff, and parents hear something about the United States, they will think beyond New York, Washington D.C., and Hollywood. And now I know that Morocco is more than Rabat, Casablanca, Marrakech. Morocco is Nador, the Rif, the Amerzigh too!  

I can't wait to explore the area further this next week and spend more time at the school. Thanks to my great host Youssef, I am certain it will continue surpass my expectations.

Settled in Nador

Welcome to tonight's episode of International House Hunters. Wendy and Amie are American high school English teachers who have just arrived in Nador, Morocco. Their host teacher for the week, Youssef, has arranged for them to stay at this incredibly spacious and elegant hotel in the up and coming "New Nador" section of the city. The price per night is below budget, and there is a cafe below and two markets nearby. Breakfast is included, and with only a twenty minute ride to their school, it is the perfect fit.

School Visit in Sale (across the river from Rabat) and visit to the only Teacher College in Morocco

Simple tools, complex problems!

When adults enter the room, the students stand. The white coats are a form of uniform for the girls.

Graffitti on the lab table.  Wait, what country is this?

During passing time it was just as energetic and loud as it is at SHS.

Coffee break in the teacher's lounge! (Does this pose look familiar London peeps?)

Meriem explains the pictures posted, which include proven scientific facts in modern times which the Koran includes explanations of as well. Islamic education is a required course here.

Just the view from the stairwell here. 

The page the students were studying in the English class I visited. 

We visited the primary school as well where these children sang us a song in Arabic that is about peace.

A snowman in a region where it does not snow? 

Look familiar?

Lining up, teacher explaining the game, this could be any school in any country!

The young students learning French spelling.  Notice the words are chunked, which is how I learned to spell:  cat, mat, sat...

Radom pirate looking boat where we ate lunch before heading to the teacher training school.

The book in the teacher training school about Moroccan history that shows the English surrendering to Washington. Why? Because the Moroccans supported the Americans!

Current student-teachers of English presenting to us about their experiences thus far as young educators. Technology and equality were strong themes in their comments.