Great Joy
// Rachel DeTellis
“Great joy” were words often used by participants to describe the happiness they experienced during their three-day teachers’ seminar in Haiti.
Our 147 elementary school teachers gathered at our high school campus for a time of training and encouragement. Because our teachers have a tremendous impact on the students, it was an honor to facilitate this event. In preparation, several school directors met with the Education Inspector to discuss topics including ethics in teaching, communication, lesson preparation, conflict management, administration, and the current educational requirements of Haiti’s Department of Education.
Alexis Venia, kindergarten teacher in Bire, taking notes during the seminar.
The teachers and 21 school directors met for larger sessions, while much of the teaching took place in smaller groups organized by grade level. Many teachers found the session on ethics helpful, while others appreciated training on communication and lesson preparation.
The teachers from our elementary school in Bire, Haiti, attended the conference with Pastor Jean Panel Louis.
Our elementary school directors during a breakout session discussing material taught at the seminar.
Alexis Venia, Bire’s kindergarten teacher said, “The training helped me understand how to help students who are struggling.” Jean Jude, Lassale’s third-grade teacher, was thankful to learn how to improve outcomes with better ways to communicate. Several directors described the seminar as a time to “recycle” and to renew and strengthen teachers’ skills. They will begin the school year refreshed and better equipped to bless their students. ~Rachel DeTellis
