Today was our fifth and final day at Arataki School. Next week we head over to 2 different schools but we are leaving part of our manawa (our hearts) at Arataki. We now consider the staff and students our own- our NZ sisters if you will!
We started the day early with bannock making at our bach in Papamoa before we headed to school. That in itself was interesting because we bought self-rising flour and then had to borrow baking powder from Ayn- phew! She saved the day! Our Thank You surprise was good to go! We shared at Morning Tea and started bidding our farewells.
This didn't mean the learning stopped. In fact, the learning may have become even more important on this our last day- scrambling around to make sure we didn't miss anything that we want to share. We are very thankful that we will be able to send a message to our new teacher friends if we DID forget... I mean, over 1000 pictures in 5 days but there might be SOMETHING missing. You will notice that I was finally able to get pictures of the playground without students in them- I was quick on the snap before they got outside!!
Lots of laughter filled our day, perhaps a few tears, but mostly just good thoughts about our experience. We are going back better teachers- more informed teachers- eager teachers ready to share and we still have 5 more days of learning. We have truly adopted the Arataki Vision: Growing Hearts & Minds- and will continue that vision as we move forward and upon our return to Canada.
As a last bit to our day, the school participated in something that they have newly introduced this year- a Fun Friday Hui- or assembly- led by the House Leaders (students that have taken on a leadership role within the school community) and involving EVERYONE. There was singing, there was prayer, there was dancing, there was laughter AND Mary was invited to get up and dance too! It was a beautiful way to end our time at Arataki.
On this Friday evening here in Papamoa NZ, we are richer in knowledge and friendship, humbled by generosity and collaboration, and our hearts are full.