Time for School

The kids are going to a really nice school here in Bogota. The teachers are genuinely concerned about each child and they have a terrific support team of teacher consultants, psychologists, and other staff. The school is about 600 students, K-12 and is up on a big hill in the northern part of Bogota. The biggest hurdle has been the bus ride, which is long, bumpy, and way rougher than “typical” traffic in the U.S.






Lydia likes that it feels “old fashioned.” They each have small classes, and are learning the cultural norms of standing whenever a teacher enters the room, always saying hello or goodbye to anyone who comes into their presence, and using as perfect handwriting as possible. The schedule is based on a six day rotating block.





Lydia’s schedule looks like this:

Day 1:
Homeroom (talk about current affairs, problem-solving, values, etc.)
P.E.
Geometry
Sociology
English (Spanish)
Math
Lunch
English (Spanish)
Computers

Day 2:
Homeroom
Music
English (Spanish)
Social Studies
Math
Sociology
Lunch
Science

Day 3:
Homeroom
Geometry
Sociology
Dance
English (Spanish)
Civics
Lunch
Spanish

Day 4:
Homeroom
Theatre
Math
Spanish
Faith (Catholic, but they say they welcome all)
Sociology
Lunch
Art

Day 5:
Homeroom
P.E.
Science
Music
Spanish
Lunch
Computers
English (Spanish)

Day 6:
Homeroom
Faith
Social Studies
Math
Chess
Spanish
Lunch
Science
English (Spanish)

Andy loves that there is lots of time for soccer (two 45 minute recesses plus a long lunch break), that “you feel like you are outside all the time (notice the hallways)”, and the kids are really nice. He also liked that you got to make your own nametag and choose where you want to sit.





Abby likes her little playground and computer lab. She likes her teacher and having Coke for a snack.





Each of their teachers speaks enough English to help them along, and they have been partnered with a “buddy” who has pretty good English as well. Four of their classes are in English (Math, English, Science, and Social Studies) and the rest are in Spanish. The whole school works on “cooperation, responsibility, and the development of the whole child.” The campus is very beautiful, with gorgeous flowers and luscious green space. On Fridays they stop classes early for “specials” which can include Karate, Horse-riding, Guitar, Home Economics, Volleyball, Basketball, or additional Dance, Art, or Music.

While there is not an opportunity for large group music ensembles, there are some unique things like their cute little chess workbooks and their fun “houses” that they are sorted into (like Harry Potter). All of our kids are in the Pegasus house, which means that throughout the year they work on special projects and games together.