My Final Challenge: ファイトファイト！

On Tuesday I had my last observation research class (kenkyu jugyo happyokai). I learned it is not something that every ALT experiences when they come to teach in Japan.

I don't think I am repeating myself so I am going to proceed like this is all new material (forgive me if I err with this assumption). Three years ago several schools were designated as "research schools" for Project G (Goto). The goal was to advance these schools' English programs; my mentor, Dan, played a significant role in the execution of this project alongside his JTEs (Japanese teachers of English).

Midori Elementary School had their happyokai several weeks ago. On Tuesday Sakiyama Elementary School had theirs bringing three years of pressure, anxiety, and work to a blissful end. I only just arrived but in the short time I have taught at Sakiyama I could sense the nervousness of many of my teachers.

They were nervous because around sixty teachers from as far as Kumamoto came to Sakiyama to observe them teach. There were of course other teachers on Goto who attended in addition to members of the Board of Education (BoE). I'm sure they were also nervous about what they could expect from me too! Thus I stayed late several times to rehearse and practice with my teachers in the days leading up to the presentation.

I dressed up in my suit managing to tie my tie successfully on the first try. An item which I thought I lost a week ago turned up in my car as I prepared to drive to school. I also successfully passed through many of the street lights which interrupt me on my typical drive to Sakiyama. The auguries were favorable to the day ahead.

Reading the auguries: an ancient practice

The day itself went fairly smoothly. My co-workers and supervisors were effusive with their praise to my great relief. I admittedly made a few minor mistakes during one or two classes, which resulted from a simple miscommunication with my teachers. And yet the teachers didn't seem to mind as they recognized I had four classes that day and arrived mid-stream into this project. Honestly I am probably critiquing myself too harshly; I am my own worst critic.

At the party that evening you could see how relieved everyone was. I was relieved too knowing I wouldn't have to wear a suit again for the foreseeable future. I spoke with the vice principal seemingly for the first time that night after several beers. He asked if I planned to be here next year, which I answered affirmatively (as soon as I receive a contract offer from the Board of Education). He and several other teachers flattered me when he asked if I would stay here for five years.

I am committed to staying here a second year; I know that for certain. While I have and still do experience a few bumps transitioning to life here, overall the transition is easier than I predicted. Since arriving I experienced nothing but kindness from my new friends here and that continues to be the trend. Additionally each day I learn new words, encounter new people, and have new experiences that make each day fresher than the one before. I figure this will continue to characterize the rest of my first year here.

Of course I realize I can't live here forever, that my experiences here are a foundation for a new job and a new path towards the presently unknown future. Presently I see myself living here for two years: that should give me enough time to explore teaching as a career, experience Japan, and see parts of Asia I may never see again. I certainly want to make the most of my time while I am here.

Tidbits and Loose Ends

1. My Favorite Class: I always resist picking favorites with people choosing to instead adhere to lofty ideals like egalitarianism. And yet I had such a fantastic day with my 2-1 class at Midori Elementary (2=second grade, 1=group-->each grade has three groups). Not only did I have class with them today but I also had lunch with them too and played with them after recess. They are so excited and happy to practice English that I want to do what I can to keep that interest alive. They are so funny and cute.

2. Bridging the Gap: Yesterday I went to Saganoshima, my island school. I really like this school but I am lucky to make it three times a month. The weather is unpredictable and for some reason many changes to my schedule seem to fall on Wednesdays (BOO!). Thus, while I hit it off immediately with the teachers, until yesterday I felt there was a gap between me and the students (simply because I am not there enough). But yesterday was a fantastic day and I really hit it off with Kota, the only first grader. I am probably only the second foreigner he has met so he was a bit scared of me I think. But we talked quite a bit yesterday and laughed during cleaning time. He even said good bye as I left for my ferry. As a whole the kids seem to be warming up to me! Of course the sweets I brought back with me from Tokushima probably helped...

3. Thanksgiving and Thanksgiving: Next Wednesday is Japan's "Thanksgiving" or Labor Day or some blend of the two. I doubt it is celebrated with the same flair, fashion, and, uh, hedonism, compared to the U.S. But it is a holiday so I will take it! That evening I will go out to dinner and drinks with some members of my gym so that should be fun.

The ALTs and I will celebrate Thanksgiving the following Saturday. I need to figure out what to cook. I know I can cook--sort of. Huh. I better start brainstorming.

4. My Imminent Return: The clock is ticking and Christmas is fast approaching! I will arrive in Lodi, CA on 12/21 to spend Christmas with the parents. Then from the 26th-01/04 I will be in Denver visiting my girlfriend. To describe myself as excited is this week's understatement.