Una fiesta de despedida (farewell party)

To celebrate the completion of the professional development conference, the Nicaraguan teachers and members of Alinza American put on a despedida for the MAT team. 

We walked up the street from the conference location to Dr. Oscar Aragón’s house that happens to be a restaurant. There we were served an amazing meal of the most delicious Nicaraguan food.

Getting ready to feel all the hungry teachers

When everyone was done eating, the MAT team gave individual farewell speeches thanking the Nicaraguan teachers for their endless hospitality, generosity, and friendship. We shared our gratitude for being able to participate a once in a lifetime experience with incredible educators in our global community.

I saw their passion for teaching each day of the conference. I learned the teachers would do anything in their power  to help their students succeed. They have the same hopes and dreams for enabling a bright future for their students as I do for my own students. The Nicaraguan teachers may not have much, but give so much of themselves.

After the speeches given by the MAT team members, some educators from a different school district gave speeches. Each school district represented gave each member of the MAT team small gifts as a token of their gratitude. I was overwhelmed and deeply touched by their generosity and thoughtfulness.

Audience of educators

Unexpectedly the music started! Two Nicaraguan teachers came out of nowhere dancing while dressed up in silly costumes. The music was playing and people were cheering them on. The pair dance together and then came over to dance with each of us in front of the whole crowd. I had so much fun!

Dancing with one of the dancers

We also listened to a band of musicians play beautiful traditional songs. What a wonderful end to the fantastic despendida! 

Singing and playing traditional music on the guitar