School: April 30, 2007

Today we went to visit our host school. It is an American school that was set up to teach foreign students living in Costa Rica. This would be business people's or embassey worker's kids. It was a K-12 school. We observed various classrooms but the coolest by far was the high school section. It is a private school and therefore can set their own standards. They don't have to follow a certain curriculum or worry about teaching to the test. It was so innovative and open. The high school wing had signs posted by kids that had political or environmental statements. And the teachers supported and encouraged creativity and openness. It was the neatest and most inspiring thing to see. There is a mix of foreign (American) and local (Costa Rican) teachers. It is through the International School System which means that the American teachers are encouraged to stay only 2 years. If they stay beyond that, their salary gets lowered and benefits go down. It was really exciting to see the dedication and creativity of the teachers. If I ever get a chance to do this, I would in a heartbeat!