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We were so fortunate to be able to welcome back Ken Smith and Waldorf teachers from the Bay Area Center for Waldorf Teacher Training (BACWTT). Each year, BACWTT visits Kusi Kawsay for two weeks, bringing a wealth of practice and insights. They accompany our teachers and students and weave in their Waldorf knowledge so that we may continue to apply elements of Waldorf pedagogy at our Andean School.
Reflection by Kusi Kawsay: The personal feedback that the Waldorf teachers gave us was very helpful. There were many suggestions on how to cultivate a connection with children from the start of the class. For example, if it is Monday, and the children are just coming back from the weekend, an active rhythm with movement can help kickstart their week.
In the 2nd grade, we learned how stories can help provide context, for example, what the role of the student is and what the role of the teacher is. We learned how to adapt stories in a personalized context for each student and act out dynamic roles, enabling students to move or even having leisurely roles for those who are more introverted or observers. We did discuss how to identify the quieter students and how to motivate and engage them. For the 4th and 5th grade, we approached topics such as comparing the similarities of altitude with latitude. For the 7th and 8th grade, there were also several suggestions on how to approach certain subjects, like physics and chemistry, while simultaneously being aware of the natural process of the child. It is a lot of work to be present in a classroom but equipped with the right tools, we guide our work to serve the best interest of the child.
We would like to thank the BACWTT for their time, energy and presence. We love and appreciate you very much. We would also like to thank Paula, Fielding and Valentin who were amazing translators! Muchas gracias to Kusi Kawsay's Señora Carlota who provided wonderful local and traditional meals throughout these two weeks.
Urpillay Sonqollay.
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