The first month of school has also been a mixture of familiar and new. I feel comfortable during the times I am working with my students. I am seeing relationships being built and am constantly trying to communicate that I am there to help and serve them in their education. I have been learning from parents about some of the struggles my students have faced with their education in the past and hope that even while it may still be a struggle for them, they feel that they are being supported. I am beginning to learn the specific ins and outs of the program at school and working on becoming a better supervisor for the other resource teachers. I am also currently helping with the ELL (English Language Learners) seniors. All of this keeps me busy during my week but I am so thankful to be here at Black Forest Academy working with this group of students and with the fellow staff members.
Missionary Focus:
One of my student's families serves in North Africa. Up until this year they homeschooled their child but decided that Black Forest Academy would be a good way to help with transition before heading to the States for college. Due to the cost of international schools, Black Forest Academy was the only school option within their budget. The parents expressed concern that their child might not be ready for college or university if kept home through the senior year due to their own lack of ability to provide a quality education at this level. Please remember this family as they have sent their child away for the first time. Pray that this student adjust well to the dorm, to attending school full-time, and to being away from parents for the first time. Also, pray for the ministry the parents are providing in North Africa.
Side Notes:
I volunteer in a few dorms. On Thursdays, I alternate between 2 girls dorms and every-other Monday night I volunteer in a boys dorm. This has been a great way to get to know more of the high school students. I usually head over to the dorms just before dinner, eat with them and then either help with homework or help in the kitchen making snacks or helping set up the lunch prep for when the students pack their lunches. Last Thursday, I also joined in on some Wii Just Dance.
I am attending the German Evangelical Church. While the service in entirely in German, the sermons are emailed out in English prior to the service.
A dance class happens on Wednesdays after school for anyone interested so I joined in and am happy to be doing this again. It looks like I may have the opportunity to sub for the teachers when they are both out in a few weeks which will be fun.
Please Pray...
For wisdom as I lead the Resource Room program
For wisdom and grace as I continue to work with my students and determine their needs and the best way to provide support
The Resource Teach for the elementary school is still working on raising support so she has not come yet
One of the ELL teachers is also still trying to raise support
For me as I adjust to living alone
For balance between work, home, community, and rest
If you would like to make a monthly pledge or other financial contribution at this time please click on this link or enter the web address: https://give.teachbeyond.org/usa/ You can designate giving for Rebecca Swanson or account number 40335.