Tired Eyes, Spades and Frayed Nerves

As we start Day 3 of the immersion trip the boys have settled in, but it is an exhausting trip on so many levels. The boys probably stayed up too late playing Spades, but they are having fun and getting along.

Yesterday Mr. Gerdes, Dan and Dylan went to Boone and Crocket with the 4th grade and today myself, Tom, Sam and Alex are going with the 5th grade. Much of the best education these kids get is through field trips and hands on experiences. This is an integral part of what is done. I have uploaded pictures from yesterday's Boone and Crocket trip.

The boys who stayed back at the school had their hands full helping the DLSBS kids with reading, math, science and social studies. One of the biggest challenges the school and by extension we face is the value of education. They were treated at the end of the day by getting so see the Blackfeet Chief Mr. Old Person. He visited to help prepare the kids for a trip to Choteau. The kids will be helping perform ceremonial dances and music as part of the opening. I am not sure if our kids realized what an honor this was.

I spent most of my day with the 7th grade as a Math aide and "taught" a science lesson with Spencer and Nico helping in the room. The 5th grade continued their reading of Percy Jackson and the Lightning Thief.

When we arrived back at the Mission Bunkhouse the Wiffleball tournament resumed and the team of Steve, Collin and Zach remained undefeated. We then enjoyed a Spaghetti dinner  and Ice Cream for desert, we all had full bellies and the boys split up to go find Cell Phone service near the Buffalo jumps. Mr. Gerdes stayed back and I got a much needed run in (not that anyone cares). Upon returning the Poker and Spades games were in full swing and after the eliminations in Hold Em Mr.Gerdes and I brushed off the rust and hammered Spencer and Nico in Spades (They had not lost a game yet).

These social activities have been great for the boys to bond and vent about their day. They love working with the kids but it is a challenge and I think they have a great appreciation for what the teachers do here.