The third and final week of CBT went by way too quickly for my liking. It was our week of solo teaching, and our week of goodbyes.

Solo teaching Grade 7

The solo teaching went better than I had expected, but I learned a lot and still have a ways to go as far as my classroom management is concerned.

I taught five classes since we only had three days of teaching. That Thursday was International Teachers Day and was a public holiday for Namibian schools.

This week solidified how much I enjoy teaching, and helped me realize that I actually enjoy teaching Primary School a lot more than I thought I did. I have only had experience working with high schoolers and never thought I would do a good job with younger kids. But, CBT proved me wrong!

Cakes made for us by Miriam’s host mom!

On the last couple of days, we had a few “goodbye” events that the teachers from both the primary and secondary schools did for us. We had cake, and a small dinner party where we said a formal goodbye to our colleagues (and even danced a little bit).

Dancing at our goodbye party at school!

Getrude, Miriam, and I waiting for the party to start!

On our final day, my host mama comes into my room after letting me sleep in a couple of hours and told me that today was my day to do the chores: sweep the house, clean my room, do my laundry, and cook lunch. This was because she wanted to give me experience in running my own house once I get to my site. I was really appreciative of it. And while I was working, she was sewing me a dress to wear to the braai we threw that night.

The dress Mamas made for me!

Miriam got a more traditional Damara dress made!

The five of us and our host families gathered in my backyard for a braai, which was incredibly delicious. It made me appreciate my wonderful family and the community of Okombahe even more.

My lovely mother from Okombahe!

We left that Friday morning. I refrained from crying, even though I really wanted to. I am so grateful for my time at CBT and will miss everyone so much!