Sept 7- day 1 in the Soongin: the visit

Today was my first day getting to go to the school that I will be teaching at for the next 3 months. I meet with two of my buddies who were going to take me to the school for the first time, but when we all got together we found out that none of us know where the school was or how to get there. Jenny, one of my buddies, called the school to get directions or at least find out where to get off the subway. We got to the stop Wolgok and got off the subway. My buddies asked the information desk in the subway station where the school was and how to get there from Wolgok station. We walked for 20 minutes before we saw the school and wouldn't you know it, it's on the top of a very, very steep hill.

The HILL!!!! the school is at the top.

I'll be in shape when I come back that's for sure!  We got to the school and the people in the office, sat us down and brought us grape juice on ice to drink, which was nice after the hard walk up the hill. I got a little bit of information, but not enough to make me feel more comfortable about the situation. I meet with the principal and four teachers that I will be observing the next few days, Ellen, Philly, Scott and Mingi. As of right now I will be teaching 1-6grade which is going to be very different for me because I am used to teaching younger children. The teachers seemed very excited to meet me, but they didn't seem to know what they were supposed to do with me once I got in their room. I guess that will come with time. I got a quick tour of the school and then had to find my own way back to KU. I work tomorrow so I will see how it goes and let you know.
Betsy