normal: just a setting on the dryer

trying to make the peace sign...but really who cares when you see that smile!

at the desks. this means business. 

super special kiddies getting their physical therapy on

oh hey there cutie pie!

Working at his special computer thanks to some very lovely Dutch teachers. Who said a physical disability would get in his way?

Whoops! I'm supposed to be blowing up this balloon but you have a camera, so never mind my work!

Group time. Today we are learning our vegetables and colors. (It was my kind of class. I learned a thing or two myself.)

Fatim, the awesome special education teacher in her equally awesome complet and headwrap. 

paying REAL close attention...just incase they are called upon

Maria, and two PHARE peeps who have come to check out the special education program as an outline 

and PAUSE

who is ready for lunch?!

Ciwara, the school i work at, has one of the few, if not the only, special education program in the country. That's right. COUNTRY. it started off simple enough, let's just have students bring their brothers and sisters, but turns out their were more special needs children in the neighborhood, and a whole class was formed. right now there is no national special education curriculum, so what is done in class is done with the help of some very passionate administrators, dedicated teachers, and helpful international resources that come and train and guide all of us wanting there to be more. That's where I am going to come in. One of my jobs, and goals, is to work to get the special education classes a curriculum and to use Ciwara as a pilot program in order to get the attention of the Malian Ministry of Education. in time, there should not only be a curriculum, but more schools with more classes like this one. the fact that these kids come to school and are establishing a routine is a first step, but the fact that they come with eagerness and an empty backpack is becoming a metaphor and not just logistics. it's time for knowledge, and power, and encouragement. i mean, how can you resist these precious faces?!

plus, isn't normal just a setting on a dryer? my mom always told me i was special too. ;)