As any teacher knows, the last few weeks of school are a bit crazy. Both teachers and students are tired, and anticipating a well needed break. All the assessments have been done, and everyone is in the thick of report cards. Report cards have to be very carefully worded. Instead of “Johnny is a little shit” it is “Johnny needs to work on self discipline when collaborating with others in a team environment.” For the most part, students I have worked with internationally have been motivated, resilient, eager to learn and with very few behavior issues. That could be in part because, since it is a private school, the school has control over who can attend, and if serious issues arise, students can be asked to leave. But mostly, the students are genuinely just nice kids. So, in the upcoming 2 weeks in regards to school - finish report cards, Sports Day, Spirit Week (not sure what that is), a Danceathon afternoon, Transition Day, Leaving Assembly, and the big CIS Goes Madd musical production. Although all this sounds exciting, having students out of routine can be exhausting for everyone. It also involves taking down all the displays on the classroom walls, returning books and IT equipment, and general classroom cleaning. As for things at the apartment, although I have only been here for 4 months, there are certain things I had to buy that are needed on a daily basis such as pots, dishes, cutlery, a coffee pot, toaster, dish towels, clothes hangers, an iron, and a fan just to name a few things. Now, the countdown is on to sell whatever I can to recoup some expenditures. Clothes I brought will mostly be given away to the migrant workers across the alley as well as many smaller items. All that has to be dealt with. There are a few things I want to bring back to Canada. So, some last minute shopping at the market and then hopefully everything will fit in one suitcase. As well, bills need to be paid, and then bank accounts closed. This whole process of winding down here and getting my mindset ready to go back to Nanaimo is making me miss home a lot. In the meantime, I will take full advantage of the swimming pool at the apartment, inexpensive meals at amazing restaurants, pedicures, and massages because I know for sure, I will be in sticker shock when I return.
1 Comment
Sherrill
6/11/2023 08:54:37 am
Love your politically correct way of saying "Johnny is a little shit!" I'm sure you feel that the days drag but time flies. It must have been so much fun to return but exhausting at the same time learning the ropes all over again. As for the sticker shock when you return you will notice a significant price increase. Even in the six weeks we were away I saw another jump in prices. Enjoy the remaining time there and we look forward to connecting once you're settled in. Safe journey home.
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BerniceAfter being retired for 4 years, an opportunity came up to go back to the Canadian International School Phnom Penh, where I had worked for 2 years before retiring. Of course, I jumped at the chance. Here is where I will be posting the everyday and often mundane events of going back to work and going back to Cambodia! Archives
April 2023
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