Practically an official volunteer!

2 days until I will be an official volunteer! Leaving Ma’asina was definitely bittersweet---it was such an enjoyable 5 weeks where we learned so much and laughed a whole lot along the way. The last night was the fiafia with the village---the women’s committee and the Peace Corps volunteers did dances back and forth and some people in the village spoke (Look at Lola’s blog for pics!). Afterwards, we went back to our fale, had a big dinner (pig and palusami…yummm…) and then exchanged goodbye speeches and gifts. Afterwards we had siva---dancing in the fale! Our Samoan family told us how they were now our Samoan family and if we ever needed anything, they are there for us. Definitely a great feeling to know there are people in the country who truly care about me when my family is far away. Describing what is going on here is pretty difficult---hopefully these pictures will help! May not be posting for a little while with Christmas and the New Years…so until then, I hope all is well! And have a great holiday! Of course I will be talking to many of you soon! Love you all! Love, Sally

Anyone interested in sending some books and such???....
Reading Teacher!!! At the school I will be teaching at, most of my responsibilities will be as a reading teacher, years 3-8 (grades 2-7 in the States), helping students learn how to read (in English). Students here are taught in Samoan until year 6 when the teaching switches to English (years 7 and on). Many students have a difficult time with the transition (because of the language barrier) ---I will be helping students to improve their reading skills, to hopefully make that transition a much smoother one. The school does have a library, but unfortunately with very limited resources, and many of the books they do have are quite worn. The school is looking to improve the library and to increase the amount of books available for the students. Also, educational materials such as alphabet letters, literacy games, dry erase boards, (as well as in other subjects such as Math etc…) are only available in Apia if at all, and are quite expensive. There is no need to go out and buy brand new books, but if anyone if looking for a place to send some they do not want anymore, they would be more than appreciated here (Any elementary or middle school level book)!!! As school starts (January 22), I will let you know if there are other much needed resources. Thank you!