Nina Moore
7th Grade Teacher
I taught elementary school for three years in Toronto, Canada and knew I was up for a new experience. I initially moved to London, England where I supply taught on the East side. However, after six months, I felt in need of a more drastic change. I felt ready for a completely different pace of life. I wanted to experience a different culture, language and climate. Professionally and personally, I wanted to grow and be challenged. I wanted to learn things I could never have learnt in a first world country.
I wanted to be in a place where I felt I could equally give and receive. I was attracted to San Jeronimo Bilingual School because I believe strongly in the importance of bilingual education for children. I also wanted to improve my basic Spanish. I truly feel that the only way to effectively learn a language is to plant yourself in a place where you are forced to use it.
Adjusting to the weather has been tough for me, especially having come from rainy London. In the beginning, I felt very drained and tired. I found the best thing to do was to just give into it…I had a lot of hammock time!
Living arrangements are tight here. I am sharing a room with two other volunteers. But truth be told, I feel happy and relaxed in the house. I am lucky to be living with sincere people who are flexible and able to voice their opinions and needs. My experience is that we communicate well. I think it also works because we value our own and each other’s ‘alone time’.
As an experienced teacher, I feel completely refreshed. Every day in Cofradia has its personal and professional challenges and rewards. I feel thankful to be teaching at San Jeronimo Bilingual School.