Lucky Market (July 30, 2008)

Just in case you were wondering, check out the stuff you can get here at Lucky Market -- it is pricier, but it is amazing how much is available. Yes, that is lactose-free soy milk.

Now I'm Here (July 29, 2008)

Yes, I made it! All logistical stuff went well and this is me getting picked up at the airport. I feel pretty much on Cambodia time already which is great, though I still get tired early. I am still staying with Doug & co. and will until the house I am moving into becomes available on Thursday.

I've been riding around town on the back of Doug's motorcycle (Honda 250XR for those who, like me, care about such things), getting to know the lay of the land. We are heading to the market in a few minutes to pick up stuff for the family and for me.

So anyway, it is "so far, so good". I saw HOPE school today, too, and met with the interim director/principal (he is a math teacher who is filling in for the normal guy who is on leave). That went well except when I attempted to explain how the US system handles donations to tax except organizations; ironically I was trying to explain a math problem to my boss and was coming up way short. Clearly, I will need to rework that lesson plan.

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The Over- and Pre- Views

As you probably know, Doug and his family live in Phnom Penh (PP), Cambodia. About a year ago, I began considering the possibility of teaching over there at a private international school. Well, that possibility has become a reality – I had been doing my best to be open to whatever came my way, and I believe that this is a good direction to head. I see it as a cool way to play a small part in helping out the families that are there to help the Cambodians.

I have accepted a 1 year teaching position at HOPE International School and will begin on August 11. The school is English-speaking, Cambridge-accredited, and has only 150 students, most of whom are the children of families working to make PP a better place. The director of the school will be away on furlough until January, and the man temporarily taking his place will no longer be able to teach a full load. Thus, there was a specific need for a math teacher – I will be teaching 7-11th grade. Teaching itself is challenging, especially for someone new to the profession, so with the other factors it promises to be a challenging experience.

I will be leaving on July 24 (Cinci to Seattle to Taipei to Phnom Penh). For the first 5 months, I will be living in the house of a family that will be away on furlough and was looking for someone to care for their two German Shepherds and otherwise look after their place. The house is near Doug and Heidi’s place and is also near the school.

I would be glad to fill you in on more specifics if you are interested. Just send me an email.

Check out this Google Map that shows where I will be living and some other landmarks (Doug put this together). CLICK HERE.

Learn more about the school: HOPE International School

Contact Info: scott7collins@gmail.com

Scott Collins
C/O HOPE International School
PO Box 2521
Phnom Penh 3
Cambodia

Facts about Cambodia (why they can use the help):
14 million people
35% live on less than the adjusted "dollar-a-day" international standard of poverty
Among the highest TB and HIV/AIDS rates in Asia

Inspired by the Travii

I think it is cool that Chris and Lindsay have a blog to keep us in touch. Granted, I could use Facebook and perhaps I may just go that route, but I think the blog approach may offer some advantages of which I am not yet aware.