i.s.a. - international studies academy san francisco

Hi again all,

We are into day 3 and everything is fantastic! The volcano was incredible, although a great deal of work to get to the top. Luckily, the kids forgot how tired they were and literally RAN down to the bottom, accumulating about 1000 rocks in each shoe along the way. It was a scream! We´ve also spent 2 nights with our homestay families. I´m so impressed with the kids´ability to jump right in and try new food, speak Spanish, etc. They´re doing such a great job. The boys´ family actually runs the icecream shop in town, so you can imagine that has been a big deal!

We began our work in Goyena today. The community has been extremely welcoming and we´re working hard. I think the kids are taking in so much that they hardly know where to begin. We have them writing in journals each night in order to help them process, and it helps us talk about everything that is going on as well. I see them quickly bonding over a truly unique experience, which is so cool as their teacher. We´ve also had a chance to relax in the afternoons at a huge swimming pool, and I think after a day in 95 degree heat, there´s no better way to end the day.

As Í´m writing to you know, the kids are out on the plaza taking in the city of Leon. They have experienced changing money and are getting a feel for how to use it in the markets. Its fun to watch! I learned over the course of the last 30 minutes that the internet here is dreadfully slow… that´s how long it took me to get to my email. I´ll try to write again in the next few days, but please don´t be worried if you don´t hear from us. Its only because we´re too busy working and having an amazing time! Of course, if anything goes wrong, we will contact you immediately!

I hope all is well back in SF. I´ve also been told to pass on a collective HAPPY MOTHERS DAY from all the kids. They were sad they couldn´t speak to you all yesterday, but you were certainly in their thoughts.

Hasta luego!!