Over the past month or so we have finally been able to welcome back our local English language students to our classrooms here at Na’atik. It has been an exciting time for everyone involved with long-empty classrooms coming to life and the air filled with the happy sound of children excited to be back here in person. Our first in person classes were in early March, and we have slowly been bringing students back in a safe and managed fashion. Our online option continues to provide for those students who still feel unready for face-to-face learning or are studying from outside of Carrillo.

Today I spoke to some of the students and teachers to hear in their own words how they feel to be back at Na’atik.

Edgar –  Student 14

I am really happy to be able to see my friends again. I am excited to learn in class physically. It is much easier to understand English in person.

Marco – Student 15 

Studying is more fun in the classroom. We can play games and learn together.

Belen – Student 14

It feels strange to be back. I think I prefer to be in the class, it is easier to learn and feel involved in the class.

Paola – Student 14 

I think online was harder. I was so excited to see my teacher and friends. It is fun to do activities together.

Yari – Student 42

Learning together is fun. My internet is not always good so it is harder to pay attention when I try to learn online.

Talicia – Teacher

Teaching in person is a whole different experience. Online it is harder for me to know if everyone can hear me, and I often have to deal with technical problems. In person I am able to make sure everyone participates and I can help those who maybe feel more nervous.

Ana – Student 14

I find it better than studying online. I can learn much faster here.

Daniela – Student 16

I just feel more comfortable in a classroom. I can practice much more than when I am online.

Rosie – Student 17

I feel studying at home is more isolated, I feel happier studying with other people.

Jorge – Student 16

I feel much better now I am in the classroom. It is easier to ask questions of my teacher when I need to. I also found it difficult to maintain attention when looking at a screen.

Angel – Student 17

I am more comfortable here, the class is more dynamic and I can learn with others.

Melisa – Student 14

I missed seeing my friends and my teacher. It is nice to see them again.

Erick – Teacher

Teaching online is quite different. In person I can tell when someone has a question or does not understand. Because of connectivity problems we could not use cameras often, so it was hard to know who needed help. I also had to adapt many classes and my teaching methods. I prefer not to use so many presentations. I also had to learn to use the online class platform, and help students with that too, which took up class time.

It was really great to see how enthusiastic the students and teachers were to be back in the classroom and to hear the children speaking English so confidently. We are looking forward to welcoming more students back and having full classrooms again next school year.

To read more about our local English Language program and how we work with the community to provide affordable education opportunities, click here