Playing Drill Sergeant Paid Off

Budi and I's classroom was the topic of much laughter and discussion throughout the day. Yesterday we had our kids incessantly practicing our dance routine. Most all of the teachers watched us during class changing periods. As I think about yesterday, I do have to laugh. The kids were troopers, but Budi and I were not going to let our kids be epic failures for Indonesia Day Celebration.

At the beginning of the day I had to teach Grade 6 English, which is always a blast. I had told them in casual conversation that Grade 3 needed some encouragement because our dance was being built up from ruins.

Dress rehearsal was at 9:30 (which undoubtedly messed up the schedule for the entire day). Budi and I were so nervous. You have to understand - I'm the new teacher, and he hasn't taught in a classroom for 3 years, and as much as this "is not a competition of the classes" - it really is. We gave our Grade 3 students a pep talk and crossed our fingers.

The music commenced and I went in the back of the gym (while they were on stage) and danced to the music, so they could have a visual. This song is definitely an aerobic routine. I'm sweating and getting really into it, and all my kids are doing fabulous. They have smiles on their faces and are all in sync (it has definitely come a long ways since Monday).

All of the sudden, mid-song, there is a burst of cheering and applause. I was beaming because I thought it was for my kids (which they do deserve and I am still glowing with pride right now). Oh no, the upper grades of the PYP start hooting and hollaring because I'm doing the dance (not just half-hearted - but full fledged). Oh how embarrassing.

I was still drenched in focus in my dance when Budi reminded me that we had to grab the kids off the stage. We both sprinted across the gym to get our kids. They walked off the stage with beaming smiles. I got so many hugs and high fives from my kids. They were so proud of themselves, but I still think I was prouder. The other PYP kids gave them a great applause and cheer.

I will hopefully take pictures and a video on Wednesday so that you too can be proud of my kiddies. Much love to you all!