Transcending Educational Borders Philippines 2009 FILAMEDA Filipino American Educators Association of San Diego County Genevieve Esmende
Purpose Opportunity to teach and interact with students in the Philippines Observe teachers and students in the classroom Dialogue with administrators and teachers regarding classroom practices
Organized the trip Asked people in FILAMEDA if they had connections with schools in the Philippines. Then I contacted the principal of each the schools to arrange our visit. I also made sure we visited schools in the hometowns of each of the participants. We also collected donations: books, textbooks, and money for school supplies. A month before the trip we packed 12 boxes filled with books, textbooks, and school supplies and had them shipped to the schools.
Schools we visited Ateneo Grade School Ateneo de Manila University Dirita-Baloguen Elementary in Iba, Zambales Zambales National High School in Iba, Zambales Felipe Estela in Baluganon, Zambales Daniel Maramba National High School in Pangasinan Santa Rosa Elementary in Olango Island, Cebu Amadeo High School and Amadeo Elementary in Cavite Rosario and Silangan Elementary schools in Cavite
Slideshow https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KcVOCl3dTHk
Reflection A better understanding of the educational experiences of my students who recently immigrated to the US from the Philippines. Hoping I was able to influence or change the way teachers teach math in the Philippines. We had a very busy schedule traveling through the Philippines, visiting schools and meeting each others families. Next time, I will schedule some time to go sight seeing. Look into finding grant money to help fund the trip.
If interested in planning your own educational trip: Contact education organization connected to the country you want to visit for support Start finding ways to make contacts with schools in that country Press release about your trip and to also ask for donations to be sent to the schools you will be visiting Email me at gesmende@sandi.net if you have any questions