English Classes in Salasaca

A couple of months ago, by popular demand, I started an English school in Salasaca. A friend of mine gave me the space which is small but for the present is fine. He did not want to charge me, but I agreed to pay him $30 per month because I know he needs the money and could rent it to someone else for the same price.

I am not an English teacher but what the heck I am better than nothing. I have about six kids ranging from six to 17 years old. A couple of the older boys had had some English in school but since the English program for them was only one hour per week they understood almost nothing. My method of teaching English is probably un-orthodox, but we are making progress. I believe that the best way to learn is the way that you learn your native language. First learn words, words and more words....a little later you put the meanings to the words.

One day I got an e-mail from someone who had read this blog and I told her about my project in Salasaca and she decided to help in collecting preschool English books and supplies. It turned out that her husband works in Ecuador and travels back and forth between Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada and Quito, and all I had to do was to go to Quito and pick up the supplies. Thank you Holly for all of your help. The kids have read and reread the books that you sent.

The word is spreading....A few weeks ago I was invited to a small local school that is in the hills overlooking Salasaca. The director, Rosa Maria wanted to start an English program but had no money for a teacher. They have 32 kids from five to 14 years old and many do not even speak Spanish as Ketchua is their native tongue.

As luck would have it I had just had a visit from a young Dutch women who had also read this blog and was looking for a volunteer job teaching English or doing something useful for at least six months. When I took her to Salasaca she was excited about the project and wanted to help. I am happy to report that on Dec. 12th Janneke Robb started teaching the first class at Katitawi School. She is teaching about four hours or more per day and according to her last message to me I believe she is doing just great. From the looks of the below photo she is having no trouble connecting with the kids. For a better look, click on the photo to enlarge.

Janneke wrote:"Faviola and I have been jumping in the back of the car every morning at 7.45 to go to the school Katitawi. It´s been a lot of fun teaching the kids. In general they are very well behaved and seem to be excited about my classes (on Friday when it was time to go they said they wanted another hour of English class).

I´ve been spending some time with Faviola and her friend Jose, which has been a good opportunity to immerse in the culture and get to know the way the people live there. Their houses are so old, simple, full of chickens, dogs, love and music."

.I hope to have some pictures soon.

Along with some Salasacan friends we have started a library. We need books of every description. Of course Spanish will be the most useful, but I would also like to get a good section in English. If anyone wants to donate books you can send them to my new best friend in Saskatoon who has offered to include them in the luggage of her husband on each trip that he makes to Quito. Any English school books that you have in the attic or in the garage would also be appreciated. From preschool up. Her address is:

Holly Walker
2206 Kenderdine Road
Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
S7N 4G7
Canada

Well that is what is new in my adventure here in Ecuador.

We have started a Salasaca English School and Library Fund. If you have ever visited Salasaca, and even if you haven't, you may want to make a small donation. It is easy just push the button below.

Thanks for your help.