Getting the opportunity to teach was amazing. The kids, the teachers, and the community of Brewster, WA was absolutely amazing. The energy and engagement of the students was astounding. At first, I was unsure of what to expect. Would the students like our lessons? Would they find the material interesting? After the first day, any worries I might’ve had were washed away. The kids were eager to learn, to absorb the facts we spewed out, and to ask questions. Not only were they eager to listen and to reflect but they were also readily willing to share and collaborate with each other - one of the most important aspects of learning in my opinion. Although shy at times, the kids were very supportive of each other and when prompted with direct questions and gentle guiding they quickly arrived at a correct answer. On the teaching side, standing up at the front of a classroom felt awesome. It was my first time ever teaching to a class for over an hour and it was extremely empowering. The other volunteers - Dana, Mikayla, and Meili - were also brilliant. I could not have had such an amazing experience without their support and their helpful suggestions.
The community was so welcoming and friendly. Everywhere we went people smiled, waved, and talked to us like we were old friends. Upon arriving at the house where we were staying for the week, the whole group was quickly pulled into a bear hug from the owner. “My house is your house,” he said adamantly, making sure that we had everything we needed and more. From quad rides to nightly swing-dancing lessons and bonfires, our home stay was full of country adventure! Traveling into town, we walked up and down the quaint streets, venturing into the cutest gift store, Sweet T’s. Here we bought a gift for Ms. Goulet, the wonderful teacher whose classes we got to work with all week. The gift included a Cherry-Blossom Crystal glowing kit and “Husky Poop,” both gifts that brought a little Husky spirit to her Brewster classroom.
We went on hikes - echo ridge, dry falls, and the Grand Coulee Dam- and enjoyed the fresh air. The views were incredible. The bonding was unreal. On our first hike, forgetting the temperature decrease in the mountains, none of us wore enough clothing. Freezing after a couple of hours of hiking, we ran down the hill like madmen, waving wildly and shouting into the wind. A group that had been only acquaintances a few days before was now connecting over chilly adventures in the deserted forest.
- Tali Haller