Final achievements for the school

Yesterday, Friday, I went to the school again whereby was treated to a tour of the classes. The only visible equipment was the lecture type chairs they use, some of which were in a bad state and a few tables and chairs for the little ones.

One classroom was completely open and another has no light. All are in a bad state of repair. What I also find interesting is the range of hazards, steps, deep drops everywhere with potential dangers lurking at every turn.

One class was learning English for the first time and the teacher was very keen for them to practice their new words.  I could see options here for connections to England of a mutually beneficial nature.

I heard many sad stories about children with no parents. And clearly the schools lack of resources makes it very difficult for them to bridge any shortfalls in provision at home. I received lots of hugs from the teachers who seemed so grateful not just for the help but because someone was listening to their need.

It was also great to see that the laptops have gone straight into use with the satellite schools.

Next Amada and I set off for the bus but en route went to the libreria, a sort of stationers which also sold animal food. It was a wooden hut with some glass cupboards, dirt floor and varios bits of plastic. But in the middle was a small photocopier where Amada got various documents copied for the internet contract, the bank and for me to bring home.

Amada and I then went off to Moyagalpa where we met with someone who can provide a fibre optic connection of 4mb to the school for around £50  per month. I have committed to this for 18 months and failing donations will pay myself. This could be a real lifeline connecting the school to the outside world.  The office was a small room at the side of a shop selling everything, where the owner looked about 90. We were shown into the side fom  and the plastic chairs were wiped for us to sit down. In the centre of the room was a motorbike and a small child played rather dangerously underneath.

We arranged the contract successfully and went off to the bank to see Betty Cortez  again. This time it was our turn to go through sheaves of paperwork. But finally we deposited funds in the bank and came away with all the information.

We had arranged to meet Paulette and Israel at Las Ranchitos after their tour at Dreamland. So we had a pleasant lunch, hearing that plans for their eco programme are falling into place. 

Then returned on the chicken bus , where first I saw a dead chicken carried on board then a text not chicks were delivered to the back of the bus. They clearly knew their ultimate fate as they protested loudly for the entire journey. I arrived back, collected my helmet and found José and the family waiting for me. However a tropical downpour meant we were drenched when we arrived home. We also visited Jordy's family before returning home.

Then Patrick and I had a farewell drink.