By Tonya Bramblett
As we prepared our family to journey to Guatemala on a missions trip, I
was asked to do some teacher training. I felt completely overwhelmed by this
but also felt God had already begun nudging me in this direction. I just
didn't feel quite capable and had reservations about my own ability. Still, I agreed, knowing He often gives me opportunities outside of my
comfort zone.
When first arriving at Casita we were honored with presentations
by some of the classes. The kids did a great job and the teachers were
obviously very proud. The classrooms were decorated with fun crafts, and
the atmosphere was great for learning. I was able to witness the
interactions between students and teachers throughout the week, before the day
of teacher training. What I witnessed was genuine love, hope, and desire
to educate the kids.
The night before the training I was so nervous. I hardly
slept. I prayed a lot. That morning, I opened my Bible and reread
the scriptures God had laid on my heart (Philippians 1:6, 1 Corinthians 13:13). I wanted these teachers to know that the work they are doing is POWERFUL
- that these children are going to grow up and change Guatemala and the world
because of their labors. I wanted to thank them for investing. What
an incredible investment they are contributing to the Kingdom of God.
I thought that I had prepared a lot, but I had not prepared enough. I intended on speaking about the three main learning styles: auditory,
visual, and kinesthetic. I also talked some about ways to help the right
and left brain function and work more as a whole. I demonstrated and had
the teachers practice some of these exercises. I reminded the teachers
some of the best learning opportunities come from stories. Stories are
more remembered when the students become involved. I decided the best way
to explain was to demonstrate with a simple tale. We acted out The Three Pigs and laughed a
lot. I changed some of the story a bit. At the end of the story I
told the teachers that just like the brick house (that was safe and warm for
the pigs), Casita was a safe haven for these precious students. We talked
about some simple resources that were in their library. I used a silly
game, Don't Spill the Beans, as
an example of math fun.
The teachers asked questions. They are thirsty for practical
teaching advice and ideas. They want desperately to succeed with their
students so their students can succeed in the world. I was pleased with
the teacher training - the Lord spoke through me a lot. I wish I had
prepared even more. Delmi tells me I have a whole year to prepare for two
hours next time, then she changed it and said two days! I have no doubt
that the teachers would be game for learning two day's worth of practical
teaching advice. I already have a list started on things I will share
next year!
