On Tuesday afternoon, we went SCUBA diving at "The Arch," a dive sight
featuring a coral reef arch. Our Professor, Julia Davies, took time to point out
specific corals and fishes whose identity and scientific names we have to know.
The sapphire blue water was clear and inviting, and visibility was excellent. As
we reached the bottom, our bodies felt weightless as we swam over the
beautiful coral reef. We saw many colorful fishes such as the Queen Parrotfish,
Creole Wrasse, and Black Jack. We also saw large sea fans, barracuda fish,
fire corals, sponges, and French grunt fish. We swam effortlessly under the
coral reef arch, and we observed the many small communities that had
established this site as their home. Several fish escorted us through the arch. As
we exited, the landscape of coral seemed endless. The abundance of
underwater life was spectacular. To complete this beautiful picture, we saw a
forty foot humpback whale during our ascent. This magical moment probably
lasted less than two minutes but it was one of the greatest experiences in my
life.
An Elementary Education
Anna Saltonstall
Three days a week, six of us volunteer at the elementary school during our
lunch hour. Their school is very different from the school that I went to,
because they don’t have any computers, televisions, or playgrounds. Our main
goal is to tutor kids who need a little extra help with reading. I kind of "lucked
out" and was placed in a kindergarten class where, instead of teaching them to
read, I get to read them stories, sing songs, and do art projects! They all love
to be read to, and yesterday I brought along one of my favorite books, The Cat
and the Hat, by Dr. Seuss. That was a big treat for all of us! Unfortunately, they
do not have very many books in their classroom, and there is no library.
I think my favorite thing about being part of their class is getting to know all the
kids. Every day a big group of them walk me home after school is out. They
take my hand, and we wander around the island being silly! The next afternoon
they are waiting for me as I enter the school yard, wondering what book I have
brought for them.
It is fun to learn what it is like to be a kid on this island. They have a lot of fun
and, together, we have a great time.
