It is a good thing that we're finally getting into some routines with everything. It has been a very topsy-turvy set of weeks for everyone. Lyra has been holding up well, but it has been a strain for her. She has even said to me, "I wish I was on the right schedule" - bless her heart. Today school started and Lyra was just so excited to go. This week is a short week (starting today, Tuesday, through to Thursday) with just 2 hours of class each day. Parents are invited today and tomorrow. On Thursday, they have asked us to drop her off to be in school by herself. Next week, the school starts observing Ramadan hours, so there is a shortened day from 9am to 1pm until mid-October. Then after mid-October, the school day goes from 8:30am to 1:30 (so not much of a change from the Ramadan to normal hours).
There are about 8-9 teachers in the school for about 75 students (plus an administrator, a Montessori implementor, a school nurse, and a principle). The population of students is about 80% Arab. The rest of the students are Indian, Asian (there is at least one other Chinese student), and Caucasian. The teachers are all from different countries and speak English, Arabic, French, Chinese, and Hindi. Instruction is mainly in English, but they also provide instruction in Arabic and French.
Here is Lyra in front of her new school, Gulf Montessori. I guess it was just a bit too sunny for her to keep her eyes open. She's wearing her new uniform (that's going to be a welcome switch.)
The school used to be a large family villa. There is a play ground (under sun shading), a pool, a grassy area, and what looks to be an animal pen in the back. I didn't ask, but I'm wondering if they will keep small animals (roosters or rabbits) in there.
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Here's a picture of snack time. From this photo it looks as if all of the mothers wear Arab dress, but actually there is about 50/50 split. And even some of the fathers were there in their Arab dress. I will admit that at first I was intimidated by seeing people wearing the traditional Arab dress. Really, given the way we see Arabs portrayed, it would be amazing if I wasn't. But since it is so common here, you do get used to it. And you start to realize - it's just clothing. These mothers and fathers are like any gathering of parents on the first day of school. And I've learned that my discomfort is all about me and not about them.
3 comments:
I'm so thrilled to see pictures of Lyra at her new school, and in her uniform. I've been waiting for these. Anya was fascinated by the photos and approves of the red dress and palm trees.
She heads back to Fernwood on Thursday, and I know she will be thinking of Lyra and missing her. Let us know how school progresses!
We miss you. The asters Russ gave us have just started blooming. Fall must be on the way.
Who's the lady with her arm's showing bare - looks like she has a sun dress on. Apparently it's OK?
Kathie
Yes, you can wear pretty much anything here. During Ramadan (which starts on Thursday and lasts for 1 month) they ask for a little more coverage - like wearing tops with sleeves. But that doesn't mean that some people still dress the way they want, and you're not going to get arrested or anything - to me it is a sign of disrespect.
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