First Day of Work

Everything went well today. Not too much to report, we pretty much sat around in a circle all day and listened to some lectures. But I got to learn a little more about the school. It seems really great still, and the other employees seem great as well. About half of them are Czech, and a couple are from the UK, and one or two from Canada. I am the only one from the United States this year, which isn't too surprising as it is becoming difficult to work in the EU. There are 12 teachers in all and that is split between two campuses. It seems that I will work from 8-3 everyday, and maybe one or two afternoons a week. I will have ten students, ages 5-6, and most speak English quite well I am told. 

We go horseback riding every week (even in winter, so lost as it isn't "too cold") and every other week we go swimming (at an indoor pool at a hotel), so that is pretty exciting and unique. We share our basement with a gym, and a perk of that is the teachers get a free massage every month! We use a non-directive approach in our teaching - originated by Carl Rogers. Essentially the children get to make their choices but within boundaries set by us. Essentially it sounds like they strive for a really positive atmosphere for the children's development, which is great for me. 

When I got home, Jace had done laundry - and this is currently our bathroom (I give him credit for the makeshift clothesline): 

But then we went to the store and bought a dryer (it was a lot of fun on the subway): 

and also a coffee maker: 

We are set!