Bedaya Forum 2012

Today was the annual Bedaya Forum, an event that signals the new school year.  Bedaya means "beginnings" and so administrators, teachers and technical support staff in Abu Dhabi gathered at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibitions Company's atrium to listen to the director of the Abu Dhabi Education Council share the the goals for this upcoming school year.  All new teachers (me) were asked to attend today's gathering even though our school administration and teachers will attend tomorrow's event.  We will be moving to another hotel closer to our apartments and school sites.

 

What I learned today was that regardless of the language, culture or economic differences ultimately the goal for education is the same all over the world. Abu Dhabi has a plan and I am thrilled to be apart of this reform to support all learners so they can reach their full potential and compete in the global challenges that lie ahead.  One of the sheiks was quoted as saying "when the last barrel of oil is filled, will we be happy or sad?"  The children here near to learn so they can compete and be prepared for what lies ahead during their lifetime and beyond.  That is where we come in.

 

As we entered the hall we were handed a headset and instructed to tune into channel 2 for the English translation of the director's speech. I felt like a delegate sitting in on a UN meeting. Teachers and their importance in reaching this goal were mentioned numerous times.  This is a long term plan and I believe I have arrived at a perfect time.  Some of the kinks have been ironed out and some have not.  For the most part students have been learning in English and Arabic for four years now.  If I am placed in the comfort of the fourth grade my girls should be pretty fluent.  We shall see.  Right now I am repacking the suitcases as we are leaving in the morning for our next hotel.  This one is in Al Ain, the city where I will be living.  I will be working approximately an hour outside of the area and this commute will be so different than the ones I made for the last fourteen years.  Another example of being outside the comfort zone.  I have already spoken with two Americans that will be teaching there with me.  We plan to carpool until I can rent or lease a car.  I will receive a travel allowance.  I did pack my IPAD so I am ready for some favorite tunes while cruising through the desert.  Stay tuned!