The Official Start to Something New

Alas the beginning of a new school year in Bulgaria has begun! Granted it has been more than a week since the first official day, but this is the first time I have some free time to think back and reminisce.

The official start of the school year for all teachers was September 1^st. That was at least what Peace Corps told us during our training. However, when I first entered the school building on that day, I only found my counterpart, the director (principal), and four other teachers present. I quickly asked my counterpart "where are all the others?" Her reply was one word, "Vacation."

(Note to self: schedule a vacation next year for this time too!) 


Though I did not know any information as to who, when, and where I was going to teach, granted I knew I would be teaching English, I was still expected to show up at 8 am and leave at 4 pm, with no work, of any kind, assigned. I will admit in all honesty that during the first week of September I was already going mad. Face it, sitting all day in a hot classroom and doing nothing, unable to go home and be productive, can have that effect on you. Thankfully I found little things to do, like make a website for my classes (proposed by another volunteer), and read a book. 


The second week of September had more action. I was given information as to which classes I was going to teach (9,10^th, and 11^th grades), and asked to make "разпределение" (razpredelenie), a syllabus for all the classes, which would be later approved by the education ministry. This was the week that saw the "population" of teachers shoot up to 20. It was also the week when I became a celebrity in my town. I had 3 surprise-on-the-spot interviews, two with a local newspaper, and one with a local TV channel. Let me tell you, there is nothing like the feeling of accomplishment you get when you have successfully answered on the spot questions in another language (especially for a publication).

Heres A Link To One Article:
Кюстендил Наблюдател - Леонид Ройтмън: Ще наблегна на диалога и комуникацията между учител и ученик


The third week of September really picked up in action. All the teachers returned and for two days in a row we had staff conferences which included voting on matters and subjects still unknown to me. On Tuesday, as I was about to leave for home, I was asked by the director if I could give a speech in Bulgarian to all the students and staff. "Sure" I said, before realizing what I just made myself do. So, less than 24 hours before the official school start, I found myself thinking of what I'm going to say to 700 people (in Bulgarian!) I was able to write and practice the speech ("thanks" to my counterpart) with time to make brownies and muffins for my co-workers. 

On Wednesday the teachers arrived dressed in their best clothes. At 9 am, we proceeded outside to find all students in their respected class areas. The ceremony started. The school flag and the flag of Bulgaria were raised. There was a speech by the director, who welcomed the students to a new school year. She then introduced me and it was my turn to speak. Honestly, I don't know how well I did, but my part soon ended and I received a round of applause from students and teachers (who also complimented me later). Were these compliments of pity or talent? I still have no idea, but being the optimist that I am, I would like to think that I "nailed" the speech. After a few more speeches the students made their way to school for an orientation of sorts. Eighth graders being the first ones had to duck from the traditional throwing of carrots and lettuce. Carrots were dropping everywhere! Apparently the eighth graders are viewed as "smart/geeky rabbits" who have yet to learn the way of the school life. After all students went to their "home rooms", most of the teachers went back to their rooms feast on the many desserts made by the likes of me and several other young teachers. More compliments were given on my ability to cook and so did the search of finding me a mate. As the short school day ended, the whole staff went to a restaurant to celebrate the new school year. Glasses were full of rakia. Dishes full of Shopska salat.


 
And this is how I began teaching.


(and losing my ability to write in English)