So, it has been a few days since I've last written and there have been a few note-worthy things that have happened. First off, we started our training. So far, we have had two days at Talpiot. Talpiot is a teaching college in Holon and we will be going there a couple days a week from 10-4 for the next few weeks of training. Basically, we listen to speakers and have classes on how to teach. It is tiring but it will be helpful for me since I don't have a background in education. Yesterday we met Mimi, who is the head of all MASA programs. She spoke to us and then we had fun Ulpan. Essentially, it was Moran (our Madricha) teaching us little phrases that we might need to know. We wanted this now because our formal Ulpan classes will not begin until after the high holidays.

Now onto today. Today was our first day in an Israeli elementary school and I had no idea what to expect. We had heard stories about how rowdy and crazy the kids were and how their schools were nothing like schools in America. I was nervous and excited to see what it was really like, but definitely had my fears.

Our only direction was to be at our school by 8:45am at the latest. My group decided to walk because it was only about a 20 minute walk away - hot but it was worth saving the money for a bus pass. Anyways, we got there and accidentally walked into the kindergarten area. Upon finally figuring out where to go, we went into the administration area to meet the principal, teacher, and secretary. They greeted us with pastries and coffee, which was a really nice treat. Then, to our surprise, six 6th graders greeted us and had speeches prepared. They also gave us a tour of the school. It was adorable. The best part was when they sang to us. Yes, you read that correctly. They sang 'stand by me' and it was one of the cutest things I've ever seen. Obviously, I couldn't help but sing along! The teacher told us that last year the teaching fellows worked with them on this song and they competed against other schools.

By this time, I was already ecstatic about this school, the teachers, the principal, and of course, the students. I was all smiles and knew that I already wanted to request this school for my placement. The rest of the day consisted of observing two classes. We observed one fifth grade class and one sixth grade class. I was amazed at how well behaved the pupils were. In Israel, they are referred to as pupils rather than students. I asked the teacher whether this was normal behavior or if they were just being good because we were there. She said that this is how they act with her. She said it was simple, she respects them and they respect her. Honestly, if I were going to be learning English at this school, I would want her as my teacher! She is a wonderful, sweet woman and I was so happy that I was placed in her classroom for this observation day.

It was nearing noon and we were not sure what else was to come. We had finished our second class observation and were told to wait for another surprise. As if the students singing and breakfast pastries weren't enough! Soon enough we were led back into the administration area where a table full of food awaited us. One of the staff member's husbands is a chef and he prepared pita bread, hummus (with plenty of toppings), salad, and falafel for us. It was completely unexpected and a perfect surprise! I was overwhelmed with the generosity and kindness of everyone that we met. I really hope to be placed in this school permanently.

Overall, today was an incredible experience. I could not have asked for a better first day in an Israeli school. I will post pictures on my facebook (and hopefully on here as well) very soon!

I hope everyone back home is doing well! I am missing everyone but am honestly so happy here.