JANUARY 2008 NEWS
January 20, 2008
Again, these are simple buildings. In developed countries these schools would be considered no more then a shelter. There is no electrical or plumbing construction to consider. The classrooms are comfortable with ample windows to allow a gentle breeze. The projected cost is $12,500. Your donations will make this a reality for the students.
NEW READING/REACREATION ROOM
The students are excited about their new school reading room (library) developed by INDIGO THREADS. The school library is the first to be established in this rural area. Lao books telling stories of Laotian folktales have been donated by other organizations in recent years. With an addition of colorful graphic primary English books, book shelves, brightly colored floor mats, table tops, ethnic indigo fabric wall hangings, recreation supplies and a bit of organization, the students have a place to discover the pleasures of reading and to develop their imaginations.
This is what I consider a great day, filled with the happiest of emotions for these bright students future who deserve the best.
Every Friday, as time allows, Boonpanh and I volunteer our assistance to read to the students. It is heartwarming to watch 45 students sitting on floor mats, gathered around Boonpanh, listening intently to the Lao folktale he is reading. He stops frequently, patiently asking them if they understand the story. Tribal language rather then Lao language is the first language for some students. Students are given time to read on their own or to read to the younger students. Our weekly program continues with an art or craft project, exercise, lesson in social behavior and learning one English word while they teach me one Lao word.
FIRST SEMESTER BREAK
After taking their final exams, students are enjoying a 2 week holiday before returning back to school for the second semester on February 4, 2008. Many students from INDIGO THREADS assisted poorest villages received 2 kilo of sticky rice to supplement their family in the absence of the school lunch program during the semester break. A small package of laundry soap was included in the donation. We encouraged the students to launder their uniform during their holiday.
Reported Live from Laos --By Mary D. Meyer/Indigo Threads-President/Director
For more information, please contact Mary D. Meyer/Indigo Threads-President-Director.
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