Wednesday, March 03, 2010

First Day of School in Iquique

While schools in Santiago and affected areas in southern Chile are still closed today, here in Iquique it is the first day of school for our children. Last year we shared some of the trials of preparing for school here in Chile such as the system of extensive (and expensive) school supply lists; and very specific and sometimes hard to find school uniforms. This year was no different except that we were somewhat mentally prepared for the time and cost involved in all of this. Still it was an adventure!

Pedro took the children to their respective schools today and brought home some pictures. It was so nice this year to drop them off in now-familiar environments. Eva and Owen even have the same teachers from last year, because the Chilean school system tries to have teacher follow their students through several grades. We are glad for this connection for their sakes and also as we continue to build upon relationships from last year.

Eva is in 3rd grade; Isabel in 2nd grade; and Owen is doing Kindergarten this year. Without further ado, here are pictures from the first day of school in Iquique! You'll notice that Eva and Isabel got new haircuts to celebrate the beginning of school. Pedro said Isabel created quite a stir with her classmates this morning! :)

Isabel in her new classroom with a new teacher

Eva smiling for Daddy's pictures

Isabel's new smile (notice the tooth she lost last night!)

Eva lining up with friends and classmates

heading into class with Tia Jeannette

Owen ready to walk to school with Daddy

On his way

reunited with Tia Gladys for Kindergarten

2 comments:

Corey and Nicki Shields said...

Your children look so happy. They are so beautiful!

Schools start in March, so do they run year round? Just curious how Chilean schools run.

Japanese schools are April to March. Tomo will start kindergarten in April (kindergartens are 3 years here).

Unknown said...

They are the cutest girls EVER! And Pedro took GREAT pictures. Way to go Pedro! : )