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Differences

I have found that the most endearing and important thing that Pt. England emphasizes besides technology is the preservation and celebration of native culture. The students at Pt. England are a mix of Tongan, Samoan, Fijian, and Maori. Their family and culture are a big part of who they are. I really enjoy how much the school and teachers incorporate Polynesian songs and recitations into everyday activities. The students sing every morning; I have already developed favorites. They use Maori bits during their daily newscast as well. The first week we were here was Samoan Culture week. We learned about different Samoan customs and traditions. We experienced an authentic Samoan dance performance at the Friday assembly with conventional Samoan dress. It is really refreshing to see so many students proud of who they are and where they come from. I think that in order to be self-confident and a leader, students have to comfortable with who they are — a Pt. England is working hard to instill...
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Pt. England Primary & Intermediate School

Monday morning I arrived nice and early to the school to begin the day. I started off in the teacher’s lounge (the warmest room in the building) before heading to Team 5’s block. There are five classrooms connected by a large common area that the students call “The Street.” The students gather together at 8:30 every morning on “The Street” to sing and pray together before the days announcements. They are arranged in rows and sit cross legged, one behind the other, quietly. If they are really squirmy, they are asked to reconvene over and over until they can assemble quickly and quietly. There is a lot of emphasis on obendiant, respectful behavior and the teachers talk regularly about being leaders to all the younger students. I appreciate that there is very little coddling; the instructions are very no-nonsense. Expectations are clear and firm. After the morning assembly, the students head to their “home rooms” for attendance and daily instructions. Shortly after the teachers organi...
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Exchange

I decided to participate in an exchange program offered by Pacific University where I am pursuing a Master’s in Teaching. My husband strong-armed me into taking a few selfish weeks away from my kids to travel to Auckland, New Zealand and enjoy an experience in education free from parental duties and household obligations. I mean, convincing me to go to one of the most beautiful, peaceful, and friendly countries where progressive and innovative teaching techniques are being implemented and shared all while being able to sleep through the night without any kids waking me to change their pee-stained sheets was a hard sell. And did I mention it’s a paradise? The locals are generous and have a very simple, straight-forward etiquette that is refreshing and delightful. I left Portland, Oregon on a sunny Friday evening in late spring/early summer only to arrive in Auckland, New Zealand on a rainy, dark Sunday morning in late fall. My classmate and I took a shuttle downtown and checked our ba...
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