Professional Growth-Reciprocity-The Partnership

Kristen Goggin November 19, 2013

At the beginning of the year I read an article called "What Good Coaches Do" by Jim Knight. I was given it to reflect on as I embarked on a journey through teacher leadership and our new teacher group called Committee on Teaching and Learning which I was selected to participate in this year.

In this article, Jim talks about Seven Partnership Principles: Equality, Choice, Voice, Reflection, Dialogue, Praxis and Reciprocity. The past few weeks as I have put myself in the driver seat, alongside many amazing professionals-peers, and I have learned so much. It was the term reciprocity from that first meeting that resonated with me, and now 2 months later it's reciprocity that continues to allow me to grow alongside these other principles.

"When one teaches, two learn."

While I have not exactly been the teacher in all of the adventures that I am to reflect on, in most of these circumstances I have been in a position of leadership in some way or form. Jennifer Klein came to visit a few weeks ago and it was an exciting few days here on campus. I am so grateful for the opportunity I had to work with World Leadership School in Costa Rica and of course here at Town alongside Jennifer as my coach. For Jennifer's visit, I not only set up a schedule for her office hours, but as often as possible I sat in on the meetings to watch, learn and help coach. This was important to me as these teachers will likely need some follow up support in the months to come. Insert me.

So many wonderful conversations to be a part of... so many ideas working through people's minds. My first meeting was with Chris. Chris and I have talked at length about connecting math and science on SOMETHING in the future. While we had the opportunity to do a short graphing unit together this year, finding the time to develop and work through a larger project has been a big challenge. I really want to support her project either by working through math and/or just being able to listen and learn from her experience. Chris is hoping to make her water project global and Jennifer was able to make suggestions and offer some potential contacts. I am excited to work with her in the weeks to come as learning about how Chris's mind works, her curriculum and her ability to work in reflection and understanding are amazing.

Next up was Humanities with David and David. As they prepare for a spring unit working with the book Maus, David contacted myself and Kristen about possible global connections working with a pyramid of hate, making their own cartoons to talk about bullying, and collaborating with this alongside a school in Warsaw. I was so intrigued I couldn't miss this meeting. I loved working with David, helping to provide perspective and engaging in such wonderful, thoughtful lesson planning. The project is in the early phases and what I found to be such great insight from Jennifer was to make sure he doesn't develop the project too much before finding partners. This suggestion is based on the idea that we don't want to come across as arrogant and with all the ideas. If we want to build relationships with schools we have to allow the passions of the teachers also come together and build the project together. Learning so much from this project, as it's been a long time since I studied the Holocaust. #lovingit

Jennifer's day here also consisted of an after school session on GLOCAL. This was wonderful place to watch our community to come together and brainstorm how we can use this amazing city to connect our students to the greater. That said, we had visit from Justin at Kiva Zip on Monday and 6B decided today to go "glocal" with their first loan. They made their "grace" loan from Kiva Council a local one! We can't wait for Jennifer to be back in February and I can't wait to present alongside of her in February at NAIS.

Jennifer's visit provided us an opportunity to really move forward on global initiatives and get people excited. It's led me to a few more opportunities to collaborate and learn from teachers here on the Jackson Street campus.

A great meeting about how building empathy in theater can lead to more empathetic global citizens and better actors.
A collaboration project with 5th grade Humanities using the book The Circuit alongside discussion of Livable vs Minimum Wage? It's just getting started.

Reciprocity. This feels good. I am trying to enter each conversation as a partner, a partner dedicated and excited about global citizenship and the value of teaching with a global lense. A colleague, a collaborator and someone wanting to learn a whole lot more, that's me! My only fear is finding balance and time for me.

Professional Growth 101

Kristen Goggin November 11, 2013

It's been so busy, that I feel like I have hardly had a chance to think clearly never mind blog. But that said, a lot of amazing things were happening in the garage this week. This post is an opportunity for me to reflect on my professional growth as I have challenged myself this week in ways I haven't necessarily had the opportunity to do before and I think I am a better educator and member of my community for it.

Monday we met as a group of teacher leaders, also known as the Committee on Teaching and Learning. I was scheduled to lead us through our discussion on leadership as it pertained to our temperaments from Keirsey personality test. The schedule was such that we would do an activity to illustrate the way we plan things, how we like to spend our downtime followed by a discussion about the strengths of our temperaments.

Guardian Inspector- ISTJ. Interestingly enough that my temperament has gone through a shift the last few years. For years I was ISTP. What this means, I am not sure. But I guess my classroom has shifted a lot in the past few years as well. I find myself constantly considering the social emotional needs of our children, the values we need to instill in them and the focus on skill development. I wasn't always this teacher, but I am proud to say that this shift makes me feel like a better educator. Two examples come to mind this week:

1) Have you seen students "pick their teams" as opposed to "be picked". I was always the athlete and growing up I didn't develop much empathy for the kid that was picked last. However, when at recess the other day I noticed that the kids were not using the traditional captain picks his team, but rather kid picks his team. How it works? Two kids move out of the pack first and go to different sides, then, one by one the students pick a direction (team) to go to. Each kids picks his direction, picks his own team. It's random who goes when and each kid has a sense of belonging for choosing his own way. It was a wonderful discovery and something I will definitely integrate into my practice if I ever have a need.

2) Faculty vs 8th Grade Free throw contest. For the past year I have felt challenged showing up at 7:30 on certain Fridays to be a part of the faculty vs staff free throw contest. Why? I don't want to be sweaty and gross all day, I don't want to get hurt, etc... but I could play and I had for years. But in fairness, I am not great at basketball and I don't really enjoy it. So I started to show up late and be a cheerleader. Well, this week at families we had a free throw contest instead. It was wonderful! No teams, throw in a skirt, who cares if you are an athlete. While all the adults in our community may "get" that it's tradition and be ok with not wanting or being able to play... this was inclusive. We all shot, and it was fun! We were a community, not the have and the have nots.

Talking through the different temperaments with my peers was really important (despite the fact that in the back of my mind I felt that we had 1 hour together and I kept going back in forth inside wondering if this was truly the best use of time when we find it so challenging to find time to meet together). In the end it felt great to acknowledge the way in which we all come to decisions, deal with others and live aspects of our live. Being in charge of the activity and discussion made me really appreciate and be present with the wonderful team I am now a part of. I found myself consciously leaving out sarcasm and speaking quietly with less jokes, knowing that it could be read in many ways and being surrounded by so many idealists, intense in a different way. The meeting ended with me feeling great about the hour we spent together, and I felt like I was in a better position for the week to come.

The next opportunity for growth came on Wednesday when I led a professional growth session for our school on "Social Media in Education"- Twitter! I love what twitter has allowed me to learn and accomplish. I love the people I have met and the relationships I am able to maintain. 140 characters of all out goodness! So I shared. 16 participants all eager to understand #, @ RT and favorite. It also gave me an opportunity to hone my skills for instructing peers and learning from them at the same time. We challenged the participants to take on a 7 day twitter challenge. Free dress for them and for their class/advisory? Come on friends!!!

So what's next... in between all of this I have Kiva on my mind. Excited to partake and help lead a few sessions of growth at the Kiva U Summit this weekend. Stay tuned... Kiva in the Classroom... changed my career and it could change yours too.

Kiva U Summit Reflections-Personal and Professional

Kristen Goggin October 24, 2013

As Premal Shah began to say his thanks and praises for a wonderful weekend event at Kiva U Summit, he asked us each to close our eyes and think of the someone/something that likely had inspired us, that led us in some way or another here today. Closing our eyes allowed us take the focus off of us, and place the focus on something greater.

I closed my eyes and began to reflect. It was hard not to think about the present, the wonderful people I had met and that had inspired me over the past few days. But, who had inspired me to be here? The question felt daunting. So many people have supported me over the course of the last few years as I led my classes through micro lending and poverty projects. So many people had encouraged me in my pursuit of bringing my classroom global. How could I possibly reflect in one minute on all of these people?

As I continued to keep my eyes closed though, I began to relax into the space and before I knew it thoughts of my family and Andrew came pouring in. Being brought up in a household with a brother with special needs, we were brought up with the understanding that “Fair wasn’t always equal and equal wasn’t always fair”.

This lesson wasn’t always easy. I recall writing my college essay about the moments when my brother would receive stickers for getting a good daily report from elementary school and wondering why I didn’t get daily treats for doing the right thing. And as I grew up it became all too clear why this motto needed to be a part of our household. It wasn’t fair to give Andrew the same rules as me, the same privileges, or the same expectations to be met.

We were brought up to be fair people, thanks to some wonderful parents supportive teachers and leaders along the way. We were brought up to be empathetic, compassionate, and helpful to our little brother and to others we came in contact with as well.

Although I have tried to find ways to compare this motto from my childhood to the issue of global poverty, I am struggling. We know the world isn’t not going to provide full equality of resources and finances anytime soon, however wouldn’t it be nice if it was at least fair? Wouldn’t it be nice if being born in a certain country allotted us the same choices to attain basic human rights? Wouldn’t it be nice if even in this country a person with special needs could be provided more support to live above the poverty line? Personal, yes.

Days after saying goodbye to my new friends and professional learning network committed to making a change in this world through teaching with Kiva and micro finance, I reflect back on the comment made by Jake of Nuru “don’t let this just be another conference”. I can say without a doubt that it wasn’t. I walked into my classroom, my Kiva Council Club and back into my life with many new ideas and a stronger commitment to educate the youth of my school to work towards ending poverty one Kiva loan at a time at the moment. Hopeful that they too become empathetic, compassionate and a whole lot more.

What else did I bring home from Kiva U Summit? What are the goals I hope to accomplish? Here are a few...

1. Engage my Kiva Council in meaningful work including a stronger field partner connection/plan, learning more about local kiva zip businesses, and sub groups to work on 2013 driving questions. Create leadership opportunities within the group. Currently open to the idea of borrowing against our Kiva “portfolio” to create a larger product to sell at an event and increase our overall lending capabilities.

2. Create meaningful connections from the material (6th grade math) to the concepts we work through while running our businesses. For example, business plans will include algebraic equation to show costs, input/output tables and graphs to show breakeven points. Document the growth of their math skills alongside 21st century skill growth.

3. Continue to connect with likeminded educators through Kiva U k-8 educators page and Kiva U facebook page and reach out to Sacred Heart Prep about local connections. Also continue to reinforce the desire of the Kiva Council to loan to schools that are trying to build their program, an approach that empowers the boys and allows others to discover what global education can do not only for their students but also for themselves as educators.

It’s time to press send on this blog post. What occurred in those 3 days at the summit will certainly stay with me for a long time and continue to influence my classroom. But sometimes you just have to say, “the end” to a post lingering in the “save draft” column. Sometimes it's hard to say goodbye too.

Professional Growth 101

Kristen Goggin October 14, 2013

Returning Home...

Kristen Goggin August 23, 2013

"There is nothing like returning to a place that remains unchanged to find ways in which you yourself have altered" -Nelson Mandela A Long Walk to Freedom 1994

The city of San Francisco is exactly how I left it.

Friends ask, how was South Africa? I reply, "It was Amazing!" They expect more and listen intently as I reply, "Cape Town is gorgeous, I loved the ocean side scenery. The food was amazing. I was eating things I couldn't even recognize on Safari. Safari? I saw a Lion. I saw a Hippo. Holy Elephants and Giraffes! What's a Springbok! Melville (Joburg suburb/neighborhood) was so cute and we had impromptu music jam night that was off the hook. My inn was gorgeous. I crack at the surface of my adventure and I give information about the tourist experiences I had.

With very few people, I have reflected beyond this. Others, who I know want to hear the deeper connections and details I have put off. My mind is still racing. It feels surreal that one week ago I was teaching an amazing group of educators about Social Media, Project Based Learning and Flipped Classrooms. It was one week ago that while I was in the position of presenter, it was me who was learning so much. It was just about one week ago that the lump in my throat wouldn't dissipate as I watched teachers celebrate their winnings in our daily draws... headphones, cd's, microphones and computers. How could they be excited about an 8 year old computer? I now knew why. Their tool kits had been added to, they were off to discover new ways to inspire their students.

It was one week ago that I had to nod goodbye to many folks, Including Victor who had spent time 3 weeks at Town School last year, because that lump in my throat had turned into tears running down my eyes as I thought about what WE had accomplished. Leap School Teachers being the center of that WE, not us presenters.

Coming full circle with Leap School and being able to travel to South Africa was an experience of a lifetime. And while I have already discussed that the trip was much more about what I learned, then what I was able to share (at least for me personally) I have to acknowledge that these two things are entwined. It certainly did a lot for my own professional growth as it pertains to outreach, learning, and global bridge building, They say you learn the most about yourself when you are challenged emotionally. We all were. But I traveled with a supportive group of educators that listened to my stories, laughed at my jokes, and gave themselves to me as a support system unconditionally for 15 days... and we rarely left one another's sides. I learned. I learned. I learned. Hey, perhaps one of them can tell you about my trip to South Africa, because I am still struggling with the words.

So, "How was South Africa?" to be honest, I don't really know what to say. I am not being short on purpose. I am not trying to blow off the experience. It was deep. It was meaningful. It was educational. It certainly was amazing. So I challenge you, just like I challenge my students all the time, to ask me a specific question, a deep question, one that may encourage a more thoughtful response. I sure do have a story or two to share.

"How did you feel as a white person learning about the Apartheid?,

"What were the township schools like and how did you feel when visiting them?"

"Were the teachers of Leap excited to learn alongside you, how did you know?

"Did you come in contact with any people that thought apartheid was the right thing for South Africa?"

"Would you go back and why?"

"What were your top 5 moments? What were you top 5 challenging moments?"

The city of San Francisco is exactly how I left it. In time I will share an anecdote or two that gives you some insight as to how I have altered because of my journey.

Ayoba and Making the LEAP!

Kristen Goggin August 17, 2013

While this is certainly not my last blog entry about my experience here in South Africa, I write this entry with a heavy heart as my time here is coming to an end and many "see you laters" have already been exchanged.

My friend Luntu described his feeling about the Ed Tech Summit as "Ayoba". "Ayoba is a slang term used by South Africans to express amazement. It is derived from other slang terms, like "Ayeye" or "Ayoyoyo." It was originally meant as an approval/appreciation of good dancing, although the exact origins of the phrase are unknown. It is thought to have roots in Johannesburg township culture. It is however, uniquely South African and expresses delight, excitement, agreement and approval. It is also used as a greeting." -this is straight from the internet

"Ayoba" is certainly the way I feel today. Luntu hit the nail on the head.

Ed Tech Summit South Africa has been exactly that for me. My 3 days with the Northern South Africa Leap School teachers have been filled with delight, excitement, agreement and approval. And while I won't get into the exacts of my conferences and conversations today, I am feeling very grateful. Grateful for being here, grateful for the opportunity. Grateful for having the opportunity to share and grateful for the opportunity to learn. Leap Teachers and collaborators, you have certainly given me much more than I could have possibly given you. I hope we can work together in the days, weeks, months and years to come. #technologywillkeepustogether

While thinking about this post, I began reflecting on the LEAP metaphor that was introduced to me in Cape Town. I am sure this metaphor was created for the students of LEAP School, but I challenge all of my new friends here in South Africa, all of the educators involved with Leap School, to remember that we are all students learning to keep up with the changing technology in this world. This metaphor certainly describes the experiences you will have as you embrace technology in education. It certainly captures my own experiences with educational technology, project based learning and global education initiatives. The first steps have been taken, training has begun... no matter where you personally fall on this metaphor today, know that I have your back when you stumble, and I ask that you have mine. Run, stumble, LEAP, land and do it all again... this is what being a connected educator requires. Thank You Leap. This is not goodbye but rather SEE YOU LATER! I can't wait. The journey has only just begun.

The Reason I am Here... Ed Tech Summit SA

Kristen Goggin August 14, 2013

Today is the firs day of Ed Tech Summit Johannesburg and I feel badly that I haven't had a chance to reflect on the 3 day summit in Cape Town yet. I continue to challenge myself to be an energizer bunny and not sit still for much more than a few hours an evening to sleep. While this is good for sightseeing and getting to see as much of the Cape Town and Joburg areas as possible, it's not good for reflecting on the experience.

So here goes...

Having the opportunity to visit Leap Schools before the summit was important. It enabled us to ask questions of the students, Take in some of their experiences and ideas and begin to understand their needs. Based on their lack of connectivity other than the computer labs, the physical campus-it's rooms and hallways, and the fact that the teachers don't have access to technology at all times of the day I find myself thinking about my first experience teaching, at the Storm King School in 1998-2000. It's kind of wild how much this place reminds me of that experience. I recall late nights in the science room, dialing up to internet in the hopes of scanning the web and/or more importantly sending an email to someone across the country. Heading up to the computer lab during a prep period only to discover that every computer was used, frustrated I would retreat back to my open apartment where I could word process on my computer but where I did not have internet connection. Lesson planning consisted of sifting through text book after text book in the math office, where their was no computer... which meant no web resources to help differentiate, teaching everything from scratch, and no professional learning network with people all over the world. This is the world of Leap 1 and Leap 2, for most individuals.

Some people would challenge that lack of connectivity can be a good thing. And as I spend my days travelling around this gorgeous country I challenge myself to this idea, this concept. No cell phone, I decided not to go international on my plan, no 3G, and a country that offers free wifi to the public in very few places, I generally am connected before I leave my lodge in the morning for an hour and when I return in the evening. While we have discovered that a lot of people do have smartphones (although I see a lot of nokia flips floating around) and data plans (they are expensive and not unlimited) I have grown to empathize with the lack of connectivity. While yes, their is the "good" to less screen time. I spent 2 hours on a city bus tour without once checking facebook, email, instagram or twitter. I find myself less distracted while trying to appreciate my surroundings. I was able to be on Safari and not worry about the world I left behind because I was completely "off the grid" for 36 hours. But my empathy develops in those first few moments when I get connected, as I rush to see my list of emails and social media strands, texts and instant messages from loved ones far and near. I empathize when after an hour of being online I realize I have done nothing to improve my practice or lesson plan, simply I have only gotten my own personal investigations accomplished and feel slightly "caught up" with the world in which I have left behind. I wonder, if this is the amount of time I had each day connected, online and/or with a computer, how much would I use technology either in my classroom or to improve my practice?

With this realization I walked into the classroom in Leap last Thursday-Saturday to teach my sessions on Project Based Learning in the Math Class and Social Media for Your Classroom and/or Your Professional Learning Network. I had to realize that these teachers sat in front of me in a similar fashion as I sat years ago. Overwhelmed, frustrated, but hungry for knowledge. Nervous and scared about what the admin would expect after a conference such as this. Wondering how to find the time in an already busy day to transform practice. Acknowledging the complexities of a school wide transformation, it's complexities, it's need for intentional development along side time to "dabble" in new things. It was my job to get their palettes wet. It was my job to get them asking how. It was my job to get them excited so that these teachers would realize that moving forward means not only the administration would work on this initiative top down, but that the teachers would start to challenge bottom up. I believe this is how true transformation occurs in regards to initiatives, the need to meet somewhere in the middle.

Constantly considering topics such as management of devices (laptops and tablets), opportunity to for BYOD, potential cost of wifi, the need to get computers closer to the students and not locked in a building far away, security, the need for digital citizenship education has to be done. These were not to be my concerns. Always on my mind and feeling as I have worked in institutions that have grappled with the same issues. I put these to the side knowing someone here in South Africa would have to work with the administration and teachers on this, likely K2. And so I presented...

During my time in Cape Town I was able to do two presentations. Both went well and in terms of information I plan to change very little. I will have the opportunity to teach social media on Day 1 of Johannesburg, which I look forward to. My hope is that they will have the opportunity to engage in it while attending the Summit. All the teachers were enthusiastic, entertained, great students and fun to be around. I look forward to continuing with the connections, and appropriately supporting teachers who want to move forward and learn alongside me. Twitter anyone? @gogogoggin

As John Gilmour, Head of Leap wrote:

In Cape Town this weekend we have been fortunate enough to participate in the EdTech Summit which offered a range of technology-based learning experiences for all of us regardless of our computing experience or technology know-how.

Apart from being motivated to explore technology options more intentionally, at a practicaI level I learned so much about using tablets in the classroom, using liberating Google apps to make my life easier, and developing new approaches to doing presentations - not just using PowerPoint but also Prezi and Google presentation options. I am sorry that I could not get to some of the other workshops - all were practical and applied and the workshops planned to open the doors to technology possibilities previously unexplored by most of us.

And reported to Teach With Africa from a participant:

Just thought to tell you that I have attended workshops on the 1st 2 days of the EdTech Summit - and will be joining them again tomorrow.

I have thoroughly enjoyed the experience and have learned such a lot – have felt a bit like a child: a tad anxious because of my ignorance but really excited to find out how things work.

Thanks for arranging for me to attend – it is invaluable and is changing how I view many things including the training workshop I am running next week, for my colleagues!

I plan to build in all sorts of on-line questionnaires etc to test “before and after” knowledge and to gather opinions.

It has given me amazing ideas for our Singita/ESA computer project; and it really has me thinking about my planned dissertation – there is a wonderful base of knowledge that I can draw on in putting it together.

I have lots to learn but this has given me a glimpse into a world which is fast evolving and I have much catching up to do!

Alongside presenting I was able to attend workhops on Adobe Photoshop and new, free, online tools for my classroom. Loved learning more...CoLar Mix App for Augmented Reality and Google Draw. It was fun! All in all, I am learning a lot alongside my peers about education of course, but much, much more.

Need a good laugh?

Adventures in Langa, Cape Town South Africa

Kristen Goggin August 12, 2013

After a solid few days of sightseeing it was time to get to work. Wednesday, I had the opportunity to visit Langa Township and two schools in the community. At Moshshesh Primary School we toured around the math classrooms with Mr Amani. Mr Amani is a 6th and 7th grade math teacher and interested in collaborating with us at Town School. His energy and enthusiasm was wonderful and the students were working on similar content to what we study at Town. Mr Amani did keep leaving the classroom while we visited and what I soon learned is that he in fact had 3 full classrooms of students. I can't even imagine. I continue to feel grateful for my own class size, and for the space that I am able to call home 9 hours a day. At the end of the day the students are given organized study time to work through homework and studies. The realization that getting work done at home, with little to no support and potentially lack of electricity, has led them to develop time within the day to get guided practice and homework time. I was so excited to hear that they are making positive changes in the community to prioritize education. My favorite moment in that classroom was when of the boys asked, “take my picture”? After doing so, his comment was then, “I am going to America!”. We laughed as we acknowledged that he was going to America within my camera.

It was time to say goodbye to Mr Amani with the acknowledgement that I would do everything in my power to connect with this school in the future. Learning beside these students would be a privilege and I am going to make it a priority. On our way out of the building we were greeted by 1st graders. They ran to us immediately, making us feel like movie stars. They were also ecstatic to be in photos. As I glanced around, standing in the rain, I continued to wonder how we can help alleviate poverty? How can we help make the conditions of this community better? How can we help make the education system stronger? How can we connect with this school and in turn help my students understand more about the world in which we share with so many others?

The second stop of the day was at Siyabulela Primary School where we shown around by Zola. Zola is a Science and English teacher and was able to not only show us his classroom, but also the computer lab where the grade 3 kids were working. Sitting in the computer lab we witnessed the students playing an online game that helped them practice the native language of Xhosa. It was fun to see, and learn a little beside them. The computer lab actually had about 25 working, connected computers. While their system may have been windows '98, I had a positive feel about the class and their use of technology at a young age. I am hopeful that this school could be a positive connection in the future as well. Fingers crossed.

Zola spoke at length about the challenges the school was facing with testing in grade 6. While their lower grades are testing fine, he is concerned with the scores of the 6th graders. Due to that he has rallied teachers and parents to support an after school program that focuses on English and Maths skills to hopefully fill the gap. We assured Zola that the problems he is facing in regards to standardized testing is not the different from what teachers face in the US and we encouraged him to look at the problem straight on and continue to rally the community, especially the parents. His commitment was admirable. He clearly cared for the well being of his students, the community, and the education system in Langa.

Following our two school visits in Langa, Sammy, Michael and Treasure gave us a small tour of Langa. While I recall the Town School art project that Leap Future Leaders have led with where they build the township together, it was eye opening to see this place in the flesh. The shacks that they call home, the lack of electricity, running water and personal bathroom quarters… it all made me so sad. Not pity, but empathy. Tears in my eyes as I saw the smiles on these kid’s faces, watching them be just be children… smiling children. The difference in economic status between them and Town's students so vast but the smiles all the same. A quick stop at Leap's Computer Center, a computer lab created in the township for students to use that don't have a place to study at night and a place that the community can use for a small fee really rounded out my day time visit.

They say that home is where the heart is and I have to believe that, especially when my last and final visit to Langa was a visit to Lelapa Restaurant. I had no idea to expect when I was told that we would be spending the evening at a restaurant in Langa. It was dusk and I have to admit I was a little out of my comfort zone as we drove through the township to the restaurant. I had no idea where we were. However, I was immediately excited when I arrived and Sheila began sharing her story. Was it her story on time? Was it the amazing food she set before us? Was it her joke about tasting wine? Was it her home? It was all of that and more.

Sheila explained to us her 30+ year dream of transforming her home into a restaurant. She explained the trials and tribulations of space, loans and her realization that she needed to follow her dreams. Sheila explained her working world before Lelapa and I was in awe. The story that will stay with me as I continue to be in awe about the price of things here compared to San Francisco is about her work as a maid. Sheila was making 40 Rand a month cleaning a house in the 70’s. Her eye opening moment was when she found a receipt at the house that said two cheese and one wine for 40 Rand. Sheila’s words were powerful as she said, “I had to leave the job and go to school full time. I no longer wanted to be worth two cheese and one wine”.

Based on Sheila's occupational success, she clearly could have moved out of the Township by now. But she enjoys the community, gives it a positive name through Lelapa and has expanded her home for the good of her family. This woman belongs here. I am a better person having heard her story. Oh and the food... unreal! Check it out!

Project Based Learning in the Math Classroom

Kristen Goggin August 8, 2013

Thank you for attending my workshop here in Cape Town, South Africa. I am so lucky to be here at Leap School and to be able to present at the first Leap School Ed Tech Summit. My session is a little different, as it highlights global, project based learning and shares with you many tech resources we have used along the way. Below, I have listed all the tech resources that will be used in the session so that you can refer back to them in the coming weeks, days or years. While some of these resources may not be accessible to you directly, I have faith that you will find alternatives as you move forward in your teaching and learning practice.

Introduction and Movie Trailer (My students use imovie but these can be done using many android and pc options or just shot with a small flip camera. You will need to start small). We Video.

Powerpoint Presentations/Google Presentations/Prezi

Youtube for Education and Buck Institute for Education for Information and Resources on Project Based Learning

Socrative for Live Online Assessment

During our session I will ask you to go to the following link while prompted: http://m.socrative.com/student/#joinRoom Please then join room 8044

Elements of My Highlighted Projects Defined

Movie Creations with Screen sharing options/online white boards. My students use apps on tablets for screen sharing such as educreations and show me. You can also use pc options such as screenr.com or . On an android tablet you can use whiteboard app.

Google Docs/Spreadsheets

Powtoons

Infographics use infogr.am or piktochart.

Finish with Socrative Compass View Points. Go to http://m.socrative.com/student/#joinRoom Please then join room 8044 and complete quiz.

Compass Viewpoint Exit ticket:

Compass Viewpoints

E = Excited

What excites you about this idea or proposition? What’s the upside?

W = Worrisome

What do you find worrisome about this idea or proposition? What’s the downside?

N = Need to Know

What else do you need to know or find out about this idea or proposition? What additional information would help you to evaluate things?

S = Stance or Suggestion for Moving Forward

What is your current stance or opinion on the idea or proposition? How might you move forward in your evaluation of this idea or proposition?

The Beginnings of My South Africa Adventure

Kristen Goggin August 7, 2013

It's been a busy 4 days here in South Africa and I can't believe all that I have done in such a short time. I arrived on Saturday morning after a few flight delays, and trying to deal with the "city" of Heathrow. Coming from Ireland I nearly got run over trying to get to the escalator. Having just reminded myself to slow down and take it all in during my days in Ireland the shift was quite overwhelming. However, I managed my way 'cross town and eventually onto British Airways flight 059 to Cape Town.

Immediately upon arrival in Cape Town, Karen brought me to our lodge for the week. Home. Located in the Pinelands suburb, just 15 minutes from downtown and a short walk to Leap Math and Science schools, the Beulah Lodge is amazing. My room is spacious and warm. I like it here. A quick check in and I was off to Leap Schools for a quick tour.

I was welcomed with open arms, toured the school, made a connection with a township school teacher who teaches similar level math, and began thinking more and more about how lucky I am to be here and what my goals of the adventure. The day ended with some good food, new friends, a fantastic sunset and the true discovery that I really do live in a city with a ridiculous cost of living. h

Day two started with an 8 am departure for a hike up Lion's Head. That happens to be the peak in the photo above... yes, the one behind us. The climb was spectacular, a mix between a hike and a solid rock scramble. We enjoyed some time on the top and headed down to the city. Next up was a car ride to Fish on the Rocks at Hout Bay. Spectacular family feed of fried food and BBQ prawns followed by a stroll through the adjoining marketplace. WOW! The fun didn't end, we spent the evening enjoying some time in the waterfront district. Sushi roll anyone? Clearly this is a diverse and metro city. And beautiful to boot!

Day three we returned to Leap to meet more folks in action AND then got a driver to take us out to Cape Point and Boulders. Cape Point is the southern most tip of Africa. I want to claim that I have been to Antarctica in pursuit of my continent challenge but alas, while we saw Penguins, it's not Antarctica. In fact, it was a beautiful day, and the sun was shining for us. Cape Point is where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet... pretty cool to be there.

So I haven't slept. And seeing that I am the person that feels the "need" for 8 hours a night this is tough. BUT all I want to do is suck up this city, this country, this place. So a 9 am Robben Island Ferry felt appropriate to book. Thank goodness we choose that one. The rain was coming down, which was a bummer after 3 days of gorgeous weather, and the boat was ROCKING! Halfway over we discovered that the 9 am ferry was the only one that was going to make it that day, we were so happy to have made the decision to do the early shift. Robben Island was a very powerful place. We learned alot about the apartheid, segregation, and Nelson Mandela's life on Robben as well as many others. It's kind of like visiting Alcatraz, but then again, in many cases these individuals really should never have been imprisoned, or at least not in the manner that they were. Post Robben we walked the city, hit up the District 6 museum-wow powerful-and took an evening stroll down Long Street.

All in all, I feel that I have seen so many aspects of the city but need another month to really get to the bottom of it. But stay tuned... Day 5 and 6 include some time in Langa Township, a meeting with my new math friend, Day 1 of the Ed Tech Summit and who knows what else...

More Summer Adventures -Summer 2013

Kristen Goggin July 17, 2013

It's a cold summer here in San Francisco, the fog has officially rolled in. This has enabled me to hibernate and get ready for my upcoming adventure to South Africa.

On August 3rd, I will arrive in Cape Town, South Africa. With the help of K2 Productions, Teach With Africa and the support of Town School I will be spending just over two weeks in Cape Town and Johannesburg. Alongside other educators, I will be helping to put on an Ed Tech Summit for LEAP Schools and other collaborating institutions.

The descriptions of my three 1 1/2 hour sessions are below and I encourage you to offer feedback, ideas, articles, movie clips etc... to support my endeavor. Please check in here, I will certainly be writing about my adventure.

The Flipped Classroom

"Flip" the traditional classroom on it's head and discover the how's and why's of this blended learning approach. Creating a classroom that maximizes and values student's active discovery time with teacher and peers allows students to learn not only the the abc's and 123's but the practical application of concepts alongside skills of collaboration, communication, and problem solving. Discover how to flip your classroom, what to expect from your students, what it will accomplish and how it will allow you to transform from "teacher on stage" to "guide on the side".

The Connected Educator: Social Media for Educators

Interested in becoming more "connected"? Not sure how facebook, twitter, pinterest and other popular social media sites could possibly help your classroom or your own professional learning network? Learn how these sites and others can be used to engage your students outside your class period. Organize work materials in one easy place. Discover how these sites can be use to engage professionally and allow you to network with other educators worldwide.

Project Based Learning in the Math Classroom

Discover the 8 essentials of project based learning and it's application to the math classroom. This student centered approach allows your classroom to transform into a space of inquiry and vehicle for developing and promoting 21st century skills. Participants will develop a better understanding of the elements and benefits of the approach. Community Solutions, financial literacy, algebraic equations, fractions, decimals, percents and proportions all wrapped up in engaging projects. Not a math teacher? Still plenty to learn and apply in your classroom.

A Picture Says a Thousand Words... So What Does 250 of Them Say?

Kristen Goggin September 13, 2012

Timelines are always a good way to make sure things are happening. Recently I discovered a coupon code for Shutterfly that had to be used TODAY. So skipped the afternoon run yesterday, signed in to shutterfly, and created an album. As a kodak gallery user for 10 years, I had never used shutterfly to make an album. But I am digging the story board option. It made is so simple to organize my thoughts and go through over 450 photos! But alas, I think I got it down to 250 or so. Enjoy!

<p style="width:425px;margin-top:0;text-align:center;">Click here to view this photo book larger<div style="margin-top: 10px; width: 425px; text-align: center;">Click here to create your own Shutterfly photo book.</div></p>

Yet Another Fun and Inspirational Afternoon in Sarapiqui'

Kristen Goggin August 31, 2012

“The greatest good you can do for another is not just share your riches, but reveal to them their own.” ~ Disraeli

Having recently stumbled upon this quote, I was inspired to write a post. As I continue to reflect back on my journey through Costa Rica there are still so many people and places that I would like to talk about.

In my initial days in the Chilamate area, Randall spoke that one of the most important parts of our interactions with the people would be that we offer them hope and support for their dreams and that we acknowledge the beauty of the area in which they live. In my last post, I spoke of Daniel and used the Field of Dreams quote, "If you build it, they will come". Daniel already had the support and acknowledgement that he needed to get started. However, my afternoon with Myra and her husband continues to resonate with me. Empty Nesters. Dreaming.

I apologise in advance that a) I have no idea if that is how you spell Myra's name and b) that I can't recall her husband's name. But it's not the names that are important, it's the story. They live in the community which we resided in, not far from the school. And so, on Sunday afternoon we walked down for a cooking lesson. Myra was to teach us how to make empanadas and we were to pretend that Olga had not already taught us at our lunch a few days before. That would likely be easy, I wasn't that good at making the little buggers anyway.

Having spent the morning on a hike, we were apparently late and Myra and her husband had already eaten. Traditional fare it was, no empanadas to be made. We did get a quick cooking lesson, but mainly Kristen and I prepped vegetables to be placed into the pot. When we sat down with rice, beans, bread, fried pork, potatoes, salad, multiple flavors of juice etc... I felt like it was Thanksgiving Day and Kristen and I looked across the table at each other as more and more dishes came out thinking, "how do we even begin?" One thing is for sure, Costa Rican's like their big feeds.

During our lunch we spoke to them about some of the questions we had been asked to reflect upon during our community interactions. Healthcare, Education and Jobs. What resonated with me during this conversation is that they informed us that jobs in the area were scarce and unsustainable and that the only ones that lasted were the ones at the Eco Lodge with Meghan and Davis. (I will certainly be doing a post soon on these amazing people)

Another thing that resonated with me was the problem with education in community. Myra was the one to tell us that the reading level of the children finishing at Linda Vista in sixth grade is that of a first grader. With no fault to the teacher Cecilia, she said, it's just too hard to teach that diverse of a group as well as you would like. I continued to think about the possibility of some of the women in the community volunteering to help, but my thoughts were knocked down immediately when Myra then informed us that while she would love to volunteer at the school (and has about 6 grown children of her own), she can't because she doesn't have children there. This makes me extremely sad.

While I thought, "It's Just Lunch", I was very wrong. We spent the next hour or two hanging out at this lovely home and hearing more about how they spend their days, and the trials and tribulations of living in this part of Chilamate. We were offered a guided tour where we learned about their chickens, pigs and horses. We also had the opportunity to do some physical labor as we put our muscles to use making sugar cane juice. And lastly, as the others sipped coffee and tried some of her amazing cheese (it wasn't really cheese but it was kind of cheese-not sure what to call it-and it was AMAZING) we discussed moving forward.

Myra and her husband have many dreams. First and foremost Myra hopes to start a Women's Association to help the women of the area develop greater self-worth, enable them to help one another with childcare, with the hope that it would allow them to investigate jobs and assist in education. The Women's Association would likely come with grants and some of the working dreams of the women could be financed that way.

Myra and her husband would also like to expand their farm. Due to financial constraints they are only able to sell and produce certain amounts of their dairy products. And while they do sell to the community, they would love to be able to get a few more animals and make it a more profitable business. In addition, they would love to be able to offer horseback riding to tourists. This is a costly endeavor with liability and insurance. How do they even begin? They sit on their farm and wonder...

It was a wonderful afternoon and as I left I kept thinking... MICRO FINANCE!! Of course that was the "lense" I often found myself looking through in my "Chilamate Rainforest Glasses". But as we finished our afternoon with these lovely people I was sure to acknowledge the riches they already had, the dreams and plans as inspirational, and the emotional backing from a woman in San Francisco.

Field of Dreams: If You Build It They Will Come

Kristen Goggin August 14, 2012

I mentioned Daniel briefly in my school visit post. Daniel was the man in el Paraiso that helped start the school in that community. I am not sure if I mentioned at the time, but legend had it that Daniel had to act as teacher, principal and cook during the initial opening of the school. I believe it. What I mentioned that day about Daniel didn't really give justice to the inspiration Daniel was to me on the trip. I continue to think about my visit with him, even weeks removed.

We had the opportunity to visit with Daniel at his farm in el Paraiso. The visit started at his dining table as we lunched on traditional fare of rice and beans accompanied by pork. Daniel had been visited by some government folk the day before to discuss farming and in their honor he had roasted a full pig from his farm. Leftovers never tasted so good:) I love me a good pig roast!

The conversation was stimulating and we discussed many of the issues that existed in his community over time. Following lunch we set off to tour the organic farm. While I have spent time on farms before, Daniel's tour was top notch and I was inspired along the way. Pigs, goats, herbs, fruits, and peppers were waiting around each corner.

First stop was a methane tank created by pig waste. The tank cost $300 for Daniel to build and it will provide all the necessary gas for his home for the next 15 years. I calculated my own estimated home gas costs for 15 years to be $3600 minimum. Too bad I can't buy a few pigs and put them and a tank on my patio. San Francisco is a little crazy though, perhaps I can at least get it on the 2013 city ballot!?!

As we travelled up the hill further into his land we began to learn more about some of the problems Daniel faces in his community. A large issue in this community is the pineapple crop. Large industries came into the community and wanted to develop the land for pineapples as they were convinced that it would be profitable. This led to overnight deforestation causing many issues in the community. And when I say overnight, I mean actually overnight. People would wake up and parts of the forest would have been cut down while they slept. The government has not been interfering and until they do Costa Rica's forest will continue to disappear.

The pineapple farms are not organic farms and the chemicals used on this product is harmful in many ways. Most disturbing is how close the farms are to the school given that many kids that have to walk by this land on the way to school each day. I took pictures that reminded me of the pictures we used last year for our food justice challenge based learning project with the 5th graders. I wonder if the people of this community understand that the harmful pesticides they are using will have an effect on people for generations to come as they ruin their soil, and the dangerous chemicals creep into the river systems.

Another issue Daniel faces is that while his farm is organic the process of getting the government rating "stamp" is difficult. This basically means he is not identified but the government as organic despite all his efforts. The process to get this stamp is not quite finished. But knowing Daniel, he won't give up. He's working hard and the main reason is due to the product we discovered last on his tour. The pepper!

You could see the pride in Daniel's eyes as he described his peppers. I have yet to taste the ground pepper I brought home and he suggested i use it to marinate meat. I can't wait. He did inform and warn us that for some reason, on his land, the pepper came out much hotter than it does on other land in the country. Is it due to the organic soil he is working with? Their is apparently a big market for the pepper and he has grouped up with other community members to create a cooperative farming business. He's pretty much the main man and was recently lent or granted money to buy a truck for the business. I believe his coop is onto something great.

However, How do these small farmers compete with large American corporations that are coming in, growing with the use of harmful chemicals, and selling at a fraction of the price? How can we educate more people that organic, local farms are where it is at and that trying to produce crops for export will only ruin their country for future generations? How can we convince costa ricans not to allow deforestation of their land for the American dollar despite the fact that it appears that part of the Costa Rican dream is, "making it with/in America". Sounds like a challenge based learning opportunity!. Or project based learning?!? We will see.

People like Daniel remind me of those that we were able to lend to through kiva.org last year. Daniel needs packaging, labels, advertisements, and help sharing his product beyond his local community. I do wonder if we can find a way to work with Daniel in the future. Ell paraiso "paradise" wouldn't be the same without Daniel and my journey was enriched having met him. Eco tourism can hopefully succeed alongside his passion. I continue to wonder if this is the ticket to success in el paraiso?

As Daniel looked down on his property from high up on the hill, he informed us that we were standing in the spot where he dreamt his new home would be and that he woke up everyday, worked and lived for the future of his children. We asked him, "what will happen to your existing house?" He chuckled and replied, "It's going to be a parking lot for all the visitors". And I hope that as he continues to build his organic farm, the people will come. I hope Daniel will someday earn the house on the hill because this is his "Field of Dreams".

Greetings, Shares and Activities. Morning Meetings at Linda Vista.

Kristen Goggin August 6, 2012

One of the things I noticed immediately about the children in Linda Vista School is that they had a strong sense of community and they bonded as classmates. The students grades K-6 shared a classroom, played together outside, and didn't group solely by age when they had down time. They walked together to school and appeared to treat eachother more like siblings than schoolmates. This is a benefit I have noticed of small schools and villages. I thought about this a lot, as I often wonder how we can get our own boys to develop stronger relationships with the students in other grades at Town School. Our families and buddies programs are certainly a start, but how can we foster authentic relationships cross grade level? If we teach them how to work together, collaborate, problem solve and communicate, will developing these relationships happen naturally? Can we find more ways for them to interact? Should we?

Last summer I had the opportunity to participate in a week long conference called, Developmental Designs. For those in education who aren't familiar with the program but may have heard of Responsive Classroom, Developmental Designs is as close as you get to the middle school equivalent. Kristen and I have both been through the respective trainings.

Transformed by the conference, I immediately implemented what I had learned in my classroom and I began running morning meetings in the 10 minutes I had each morning. While my understanding of DD morning meetings was to strengthen the community and build social emotional skills, it was unfortunate that I only had 10 minutes every morning to work with this group of boys. We tried our best. At the end of the year, I felt that the daily meeting definitely helped build a stronger community but only allowed us to touch on the social emotional skills. Moving forward, I am grateful that alongside my colleagues, and with the support of the administration, we will be moving to a stronger advisory program next year.

During our initial few days in Chilamate, I found that a lot of conversations we had in regard to education went back to the need for social emotional learning in our classrooms. Randall and I spoke at length about using experiential learning and we shared with him Developmental Designs and Responsive Classroom. When asked to do a lesson for the students of Linda Vista I immediately suggested that we share our morning meeting program as both Kristen and I do morning meetings in our respective classrooms grade 1 and 5. It felt important to share with the students how we begin our own day at Town. We spent two mornings sharing our Circle of Power and Respect, morning greeting, group share and an activity to follow. When we arrived at school Day 2, it was heartwarming to see the excitement in the students eyes as they shrieked excitedly about our arrival.

I apologise in advance that the video coverage is less than perfect. The iphone acted as our camera and sometimes got fussy with the humidity. In addition, I wanted the students to act "normal" and not act up for the camera so we tried to play it down that we were taping at all. Makes for a harder video on the eye. But it shows the point:)

Mi Madre, Mi Padre y Mi Hermana de Otro Señor. Mi Hogar Lejos del Hogar.

Kristen Goggin August 3, 2012

My Mother (Olga), My Father (Barney) and My Sista' from Another Mista' (Yeii). My Home Away from Home.

Our arrival at our homestay was an immediate relief. Nervous about the experience, lack of language, our privacy and personal spacem we were comforted at first sight. Olga, Barney and Yeii have a beautiful home physically and we soon discovered the generosity and love that filled the space.

I was in awe by the construction and design of the living space at Loma Tranquilla. Barney used many reusable materials from his land to create accents throughout. Every detail was conscious and beautiful. The kitchen table where we would later sit, eat, talk and play for hours rivalled my own in size (ok, it's bigger), and served the same purpose. It was a gathering place to exchange adventures from the day over wonderful homecooked meals.

The dinining table wasn't the only space that reminded me of my home in San Francisco. The hammock that hung in the corner soon became a favorite of mine as well. I read, journaled, reflected with Kristen and cat watched from it often. Nothing like "hanging out" in the afternoons.

Impromptu language lessons, Olga's competive card games, pre meal conversations with Barney and intro activities with Yeii, the cat stick, and la cucaracha are a short list of some of the highlights of my time here. Loma Tranquilla, it's natural beauty and it's people, will forever be a part of my heart. I hope that I can return someday in the near future, but until then I have sweet memories of my time. The best of them are never caught on film. But please enjoy what I have.

"And I was beginning to think home might be with you"-Ben Sherwood

Click Here: imovie of our "home"

I Vow to Never Complain about the Copy Machine Again.

Kristen Goggin July 31, 2012

During our time in Sarapiqui, we were able to visit a few different schools in the area. During our first couple of days we visited 4 elementary schools that World Leadership School has partnered with to complete projects over the years. Each of these schools varied in size, resources, and needs. The visits really made me appreciate the Town School building (even before the upcoming renovations) and the resources we are provided.

Elementary students in Costa Rica are only in school half day, everyday. This allows the schools to take on two seperate group of kids. One set in the mornings and another in the afternoons. Teachers work the full day, 7-4, and have to teach multiple grade levels. Sometimes the classroom is mixed and other times the teacher teaches one grade level in the morning and another in the afternoon. Substitutes teachers are generally not used and therefore if a teacher is sick or needs the day off it can be problematic.

Resources for different schools will vary in size and the abilty to receive grants. If schools have less than a 100 students, not only do the teachers need to carry out the full school day of class but one of them will also have to act as principal. Parents in the community help by participating in a board that helps govern the school.

El Paraiso, "Paradise"

El Paraiso school was fonded by the parents of the community after many years of children needing to travel over an hour to get to school. Daniel (who you will learn more about in later posts), explained to us that the parents of the community were looking for a better life for their children. Focused on the future, they created a plan. By holding "fiestas" to raise funding, they sent some individuals to San Jose to fight the government. Not wanting to waste money, the individuals that travelled spent money on bus fare, but only travelled with a bunch of bananas that they would eat on their all day adventure as to not waste valuable school funds.

While fighting the government for a school, the people of El Paraiso decided to buy the building. I imagine this was either a pre fab style building of modular classroom. And when they went to San Jose they told the government that they had the school, but they needed the land. Finally, they were given a plot of land and approximately two weeks later the building was set up on the land. With no teacher, no principal and no cook, parents stepped in. Daniel acted as all 3 positions for awhile. Two years later, a high school was built.

World Leadership School recently partnered with El Paraiso and built them a fabulous playground. Using materials that will uphold the elements, are eco friendly, and not too costly it turned out fantastic. El Paraiso was right in selecting this as something they needed. The children are more excited to come to school now because they have a place to play. They come early and leave late. As I have heard some say here in America, a good school is measured by how fast the students come running into the building in the morning and how slow they leave the building in the afternoon. In this case, it is wonderful that they have access to this playground to encourage their love of school when school is open or not. The students are spending more time in this beautiful space.

El Roble

El Roble's school community is larger and therefore is able to have a principal who doesn't have to balance time with teaching. The school has an outdoor garden/green house area that they use to teach their students. World Leadership partner schools have helped El Roble with a variety of projects. As you will see in the pictures, they recently helped build a basketball court and a library. Can you tell what is missing from library?

The community of El Roble has a few things that the other communities are currently lacking. They have a community center, church and futbol field all centrally located near their school too. These are ammenties to the community and assist with bringing the people together. Communities that have these tend to do well.

Christo Rey

Christo Rey school is the largest of the elementary schools we visited. With lots of classrooms and a new computer lab, it would appear that things were a bit easier here. However, Christo Rey's elementary school has come a long way.

We learned that Christo Rey is a blue flag school. A blue flag school is awarded to schools that meet strict criteria with regard to water quality and environmental programs. This was amazing to see, as only a few years ago Christo Rey didn't have safe drinking water and the students had to bring their own water to school. World Leadership helped by bring safe drinking water into their school and by building bathrooms.

With increased confidence in their program, the blue flag award comes with a grant and the school decided to build a playground area for the students with that money. This is an area that the students enjoy and acts a physical representation of their committment.

Christo Rey is also a proud recipient of a grant for a computer lab. You will see from the pictures that they now have a wonderful lab for their students. However, unlike our lab at Town School the computers can only be accessed when the trained computer teacher is there. Sharing this space, and this teacher must be rather difficult. I continue to be appreciative of the technology we are provided at Town.

We learned that Christo Rey, while appearing to have the most resources, has it's own issues. The community is the highest in crime from the ones we visited and therefore the school and playing field are fenced in and the community is unable to use these areas.

Linda Vista

The last elementary school we visited was Linda Vista. This is the school that we would spend a few mornings and would likely benefit directly from our service contributions in the days ahead as well. Linda Vista is an extremely small school with only 25 or so children. One teacher, who also acts as principal, is in charge of the education of all these children. When Cecilia is ill or needs to be somewhere else, school is cancelled. Davis is the President of this school community which is unusual as his daughter attends another school. Lucky for Linda Vista though, as Davis is dedicated to the school community and continues to give his time and energy to improving it.

Linda Vista also recieved a playground through the hardwork and contributions made by partner schools from World Leadership School. In addtion, they are in the process of building a futbol field that will be accessible even when school is closed. Unfortunately, the playground is not accessible due to vandalism etc...

Linda Vista was also built a greenhouse to use for hydroponic farming. As you can imagine, Cecelia already teaching grades k-6 in a single classroom hasn't had much time to get the project up and running and the greenhouse sits abandoned. Davis assures us that the hope is that an individual is going to come to the school to help get this project. The project was created and supported with love but we must remember to consider the needs and desires of the community. Needless to say they love their clean water, new bathrooms, playground and soon to be futbol field... hopefully the greenhouse will be appreciated soon as well.

As I reflect...

What can we give to these communities to help? Before we start asking that question of ourselves, it is important to recognize that the community itself needs to give input. Projects and partnerships will not work if we don't include them in these discussions. It's not about what WE can give, it's what THEY want us to give. As for that copy machine...perhaps I should go paperless, avoid the problem all together and be better to our earth.

Stay Tuned. Upcoming blog entries on Eco Tourism, Deforestation, Organic Peppers, My Costa Rican Family, Hosting a Morning Meeting, Boots and Snakes and Service and.... who knows???

Welcome to Chilamate

Kristen Goggin July 19, 2012

Welcome to Chilamate!

Today Kristen and I met Randall and Davis at the airport to be transported to Chilamate and to the Chilamate Eco retreat owned by Meghan and Davis.

We enjoyed the scenic drive through the mountains, and stopped at a buffet lunch before arriving in the community we will call home for the next 10 days.

Our bags were transported by wheel barrel up the narrow path to our jungle retreat, we found our room, and relaxed before meeting Randall to discuss curriculum, norms, concerns and expectations. We all acknowledge that our group is small and therefore may be harder to process all the activities authentically. However, while the size of our group may be a disadvantage there, I am quite positive it will be an advantage to us in the end in many ways.

Megan, David and the rest of the staff at Chilamate Eco resort have already welcomed us with open arms. And after processing some great ideas about group travel and participating in some experiential learning activities, we are looking forward to tomorrows adventure.

Pura vida!

I Can't Wait to Meetchu-Macy Gray

Monkeys, Snakes, Sloths... Ay Dios Mio.

Kristen Goggin July 15, 2012

What a fabulous few days In Manuel Antonio. Sitting on the beach our final day reflecting and looking forward.

Our second night, after checking out the beach, we took a night hike. Check out what we found. Birds, butterflies, crocodiles, snakes, frogs and spiders.

After taking a night hike we decided to sign up for an afternoon catamaran tour. We found the Ocean King and were ecstatic. The boat had 2 jacuzzis, lounge chairs upstairs, two slides and a great crew. The boat will hold over 200 people but travelling during the green season definitely has it's advantages. We all fit into a 15 passenger van so we practically had the boat to ourselves!

The evening of day 3 took us to the wine bar for dinner (Si Como No). Then off to Byblos and later downtown Quepos. Meeting up with the owner of the boat, Roberto, and his friend Josua was perfect. Josua leads trips in the park and was able to set up a tour with us the next day.

Day 4 we had some pool time before heading to the park. Monkeys, sloths, spiders, land crabs, boa constrictors...wow! An amazing country with amazing people. Josua described some of the elements of the school system here that includes 150 hours of service work before graduation. Josua was great guide who was able to show us a lot of wildlife and give us some inside information on living in Costa Rica.

Today is our last day here, and the adventure has just begun. We are enjoying the beach and relaxing. Sad to say goodbye to our independent adventure but excited for what lies ahead.

Pura Vida!

Evening 1. Si como No

Kristen Goggin July 12, 2012

Arrived yesterday in Manuel Antonio at Si Como No resort. Gorgeous spot! We enjoyed dusk at the adult pool. Sometimes it's nice to not be around screaming children:)

Headed to a nice tapas restaurant nearby for dinner. A little challenge was that a local cat was sitting on our table when we arrived. Quickly the table cloth was changed and we felt a little more comfortable. My fear of cats was really challenged. Will it be an issue moving forward? A few minutes later we were actually transferred by the command of the hostess to a nicer table. Could they smell my fear?

Headed home early for a nice sleep!

"When one teaches, two learn."

What else did I bring home from Kiva U Summit? What are the goals I hope to accomplish? Here are a few...

"There is nothing like returning to a place that remains unchanged to find ways in which you yourself have altered" -Nelson Mandela A Long Walk to Freedom 1994

The city of San Francisco is exactly how I left it.

The city of San Francisco is exactly how I left it. In time I will share an anecdote or two that gives you some insight as to how I have altered because of my journey.

Formerly Known as Stories from the Garage