Coming into this experience, I was unsure of what to expect. I have worked with plenty of kids during my short 21 years of life, but none of them touched my heart quite like the students of Peggy Barry Primary in Jamaica. The students have so little, yet enjoy every bit of what they have or are given. The school is one large building with cubicle like dividers to separate each class grade room. With the setup of the school, talking and teaching become a difficult task to make sure that every student can hear the information being given.

Our first pull out experience was with second grade. One of the young men in my small group decided that he did not want to participate, trying to act all tough and ‘too good’ for our group work. I attempted to reengage the student any way possible, to no avail. At the end of the small group time, I handed out stickers to each of the students to thank and reward them for their hard work. The young man asked for his sticker. I looked at the young man seriously and said to him, “I know that you can do this and I expect better work from you tomorrow, you are too smart not to do the work. Pinky promise me that you will try your best tomorrow.” I extended my pinky towards his pinky and he looked at me confused. I went on to explain what a pinky promise is all about and the specialness of staying true to the promise. After that discussion, the young man extended his little pinky and wrapped it around mine.
Ever since that moment, the young man extends his pinky to mine and flashes me his bright white smile. This young man has made the greatest impact on my life, my love, and my teaching abilities.