Martha’s Blog:


My first week at the Edgehill School for Special Education, in Port Maria, formerly called the School of Hope, went well. There is a wonderful staff of patient, kind teachers. I have been working with each of the 3 classes (45 students) to teach some sign language, alphabet recognition, and some signs which might be helpful for the less verbal students. Each day, I presented art lessons using the art materials I brought with me from California: tempera paints, watercolors, fingerpaints, soft pastels, and colored marking pens. Since the director of the school told me that there will be an art contest in a few weeks, I’ve mounted some of their finished works for display. Working in with students to complete a project, build creativity and self esteem, has been part of my goal. Luckily, I brought some plastic aprons to protect their uniforms since some of these projects have been a bit messy.  I have taught some art theory, too, using a color wheel and some techniques for using the materials. I have found these wonderful students have been instilled with the admirable qualities of showing respect, taking care of materials, and cleaning up after themselves. Fortunately, Diane arranged for  a wonderful driver for pick ups at the Couples Resort and drop offs at the school . He has also gone with me to help me find additional supplies. The school has some art supplies, but they are in short supply of paper and other school supplies, and have no copy machine.  I’m looking forward to next week at the school.

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