May is a good month because there are a lot of holidays and there are also special events at school. Two weeks my school had Sports day. Every school in Korea holds this event once a year. At my school every grade practiced one special event like circle tug-o-war, relay races, jump rope, dancing and running. For weeks before the event the classes would practice. The classes would also practice marching. The teachers began to stress out and I didn’t understand why. I just thought it was going to be a fun relaxing day like a jog-a-thon or something. It was fun for me. They would cancel classes, so they could practice. And once the day came, I understood what all the commotion was about. All the students wore matching gym outfits. All the teachers wore matching gym outfits (even me). There were tents set up along the perimeter. Flags hung all around. And there was a head table for the principal, the vice principal and top district big wigs. All the teachers were praying for a smooth event because all the eyes were on them and their class. There was an opening ceremony with flag waving, songs, speeches and choreographed exercises. And then, finally the games began. It was a long day and only my pictures can describe the rest. The teachers are much more relaxed because the event is over.
Last week my school had their birthday on Tuesday, so there was no school. On Wednesday it was Children’s Day, so there was no school. Children’s Day is a day where kids get presents, and a day off school. Some businesses are also closed for this holiday. Since we had the day off, we went to Haeundae Beach in Busan. The weather was perfect! Good friends, good Frisbee, and you are even allowed to enjoy a drink or two on the beach. I should have worn a little more sunscreen though. Ouch!
Today is Midterms, so I don’t teach. On Thursday and Friday we are going to a conference about 1 hour away. Next Friday is Buddha’s Birthday, so no school. We are going to Deok Jeok Do for that 3 day weekend. It is a private island near Seoul. About 60 English teachers will attend. There are sleeping facilities, but we have to bring our own food. So, it’s kinda like camping on the beach. Bring on the SUN! So, in conclusion (haha), May is a great month for teachers in Korea!
