Back in the Saddle Again (Mandy)

Another school year is underway at the Jerusalem School! Despite its many foibles, idiosyncrasies, and craziness that comes with starting a new school year, things have gone relatively smooth- considering. Considering that Miss Linda, the former high school principal, was deported from the airport in Tel Aviv on the day of her arrival a couple of weeks ago. (She’s now back in Maryland teaching at a school) Considering that “Dr. Thompson” (our good friend Arnie who was a science and history teacher at the other branch of our school last year) has taken the reigns of high school principal on such short notice. He’s only had to work out the schedule for about a week now-what a nightmare! Considering the fact that our friends Josh and Lauren have departed from the Holy Land. Considering there is no more Miss Berta's laugh bellowing down the hallways. We’ve had to make many adjustments to our life here, as have many others, but we are very excited to be back. All the transitions have gone well-Praise God!

Doug is teaching high school Bible, history, and geography. He also has to “teach” an SAT prep course (which is the highlight of his day-ha) He is enjoying getting to know many new students as well as connecting with students from last year. His nights consist of happily putting his notes into Power Point presentations. The new LCD projector is serving him well! I’m so proud of him when he gets up in front of all the students in the morning and prays. I love the start to our day. He’s also assistant high school principal, by default. But as many of you know, he was in danger of taking the principal job over by storm, and so for the role as assistant principal we are grateful. He only has to take part of the pressure, not all of the pressure. He’s doing a great job as Dr. Thompson’s right hand man.

I’m off to a good start in 4th grade. I came to school and found out my classroom had been changed to the first floor (I had been on the 2nd floor) WAY in the corner of the school. It’s my little cave. I feel a bit isolated, but it’s worth it because it’s nice and quiet. I also feel a bit more in touch with the other teachers, as 1st-3rd grade is down the hall from me. We have a wonderful view of the school’s olive grove out the window, so I’m not complaining! I have 14 students this year, although two have neglected to show up yet and today a student told me she had talked to Meroon (a missing student) who said she’s not sure whether she’s coming back or not. OKAY! When is she deciding? Or, when is Dad going to decide? I only had one mishap so far. Today I dismissed my kids an hour early! Oops! Two other teachers came down the hall, looking at me quizzically, and asked, “Where are your kids going?” I’m like, “They’re going home! It’s 12:30 right?” “Uh, no, it’s 11:30!!” Good thing Miss Grace wasn’t in the building. Also, it’s a good thing Mr. George is a fast runner because he had to catch up to my kids who had disappeared rather quickly. At least all of them were corralled back into the classroom safely, in good time I must say, for the last hour of the day! I’m enjoying my students so far. I have lots of boys which makes for a more dynamic group, but we’ve gotten off to a wonderful start.

There are four other American teachers living down the hall from us. Josh and Kara are a couple serving here through Athletes in Action (which means a new basketball coach or two-yes!) They are teaching middle school/high school subjects. Paris was here last year, and her roommate is Jennifer. Jennifer’s teaching 3rd grade. Paris is teaching 5th grade. They are enjoying teaching and the students so far. Praise God!
We all get along well so far and look forward to creating new friendships this year.

We've told the students to stay tuned for the grand opening of our library, computer lab, and soccer field. Details are still being worked out for those. They can't wait! We'll let you know what happens.....stay tuned.....

Say prayers that school continues to go well. Thanks!