November 5th 2018; I'm heading back to Corozal, Belize for a couple months.
Let's start at the very beginning. A very good place to start. When you read you begin with..
An educational movement is occurring in northern Belize through reading interventions and whole school reading curriculum training. The Wilson and Fundations packs of basic reading skills have shown tremendous success in the district of Orange Walk, and the Ministry of Education has taken notice. The Belize Project (non-profit) and the government are working together to begin this launch. The goal is to imitate literacy progression in the Corozal district government schools, and as my personal assignment, San Antonio.
First steps include gathering baseline data of where the students are currently performing using the WIST assessment. I'll be meeting with students individually to assess their letter sound and blends sound recognition then moving forward toward word skills. This is allow us to know where to begin each student in the curriculum and to see an upward trend as the interventions are put into place. Teaching kiddos how to read is my life's work; how tremendously blessed am I to be able to return to the village/town/country I adore to use these strengths the Lord ordained for me.
By His very nature, God has planned this assignment during an incredible time. He knew I would be needing a mental health repair and would be available in my career to take a curve such as this. I've been subbing, tutoring, and babysitting this semester as I awaited by departure. Sleep, laughter, and peace are plentiful since leaving the traditional classroom. Grateful doesn't begin to describe my feelings on this season of restoration of my mind.
On a more personal level, in Belize I will be spending time with one of my dearest friends and her newborn son!! She is such an encouragement to me and my faith walk. God knew come November, she would be a new mom and little E man could use a visit from TiAmba.
Clarity comes when distractions are dismissed. Life in Belize is intentional. Simple. Pure.
Fruits and vegetables are as fresh as picking from your neighbor's yard. The societal pressures of contouring my makeup or dressing just so are replaced with release/freedom/self-esteem radiant thoughts of, "This is me, beautifully made and loved by my Maker and King." The lack of cell service helps me unplug from constant cyber connection, and engage with those right in front of me.
There are a dozen or so teenagers (13-16yo) that have aged-out of primary school that I plan on hanging out with often. Their worldview in a time of 'done with school but too young for a job' is different than the States. It intrigues me to spend days and afternoons with them, hearing what the next generation hopes for their lives and how Jesus is woven throughout.
I'm eager to see the Spirit move in my familiar far home.
And of course, report back to anyone willing to read what God reveals in my time there.
Reading. Clean eating. Meeting. Let's get back to basics!
