I have had the incredible privilege of teaching the most incredible fourth graders here in the United States. I have spent the past three months in a class with 22 students and an amazing teacher. They are taking this journey with me. We have been learning about South Africa together! At the beginning of the year I introduced our  South Africa box...

The students were able to put questions that they had for the students in South Africa and for me. I answered the ones that I could, and the others I am taking with me to ask the students firsthand. Also, there is a section for ideas. The students brainstormed different things that we could do for the students in South Africa. We then narrowed the ideas down to a couple of things:

1. A school tour: The students thought that it would be interesting to see the differences between our schools in the United States and the schools in South Africa. Therefore, they have been recording different parts of their school. I will be putting a video together to show the students in South Africa. Then, I will also take a video of the school over there. The students will be able to not only appreciate what they have, but gain a global perspective. The video will be posted shortly!
2. Pen Pals: The students will be writing letters to my future students in South Africa. This will give them a chance to interact one on one with a student across the world.
3. Care box: I have been so encouraged by the hearts of my students here! They have such precious hearts and truly understand the importance of giving. My students were so excited about bringing in supplies for me to take with me to South Africa. They have contributed multiple items to donate to the township school that I will be working with. I have been so inspired by the compassion of my students. 

I am so thankful to have 22 students and 1 teacher coming with me on my journey...

The First of Many...

So, it is getting closer... I cannot believe that the time has come! In less than two weeks I will be walking in the streets of South Africa. I will be taking the longest plane ride of my life. I will be teaching in a school where the students' first language is far from English. I will be spending one month in a foreign country with seven other piers. There is so much to learn! I am ready to learn all that I can from this country, this journey, this adventure, these students, this school, my piers, and my leader. I am a learner, and I am ready to learn. I am a teacher, and I am ready to teach. What a beautiful contrast. I have the honor of being a learner and someone who inspires learning! Follow me on my journey of adventure and  learning. After all, learning is a journey that never ends... Let's start walking. One step at a time...

10 days...

Molo Mhnolo! Hello Friend!

Hello! My name is Mary Fincannon and I am about to embark on the journey of a lifetime. I have been blessed with the opportunity to go to the beautiful country of South Africa to student teach for one month. I am still in awe that I get to be a part of this incredible journey. What an adventure I have ahead of myself! Take the journey with me! It makes it a lot more fun:)