Friday, July 17, 2009

Final day of classes at CTY

As of this past Friday (July 17), the program is no longer officially running. Except, of course, the field trips tomorrow and our responsibilities of staying with the sick kids. Last night we met with Jenn to discuss the lack of communication. I was out all day on trips, and so I wasn't there for the meeting that I later found out never happened. We were able to corner her this evening however in hope of getting some answers. Sadly, none.

The questions are straightforward: what kind of personal liability are we taking on by working with sick students for the next week? Are we going to be cared for by CTY, or upon the program ending no matter our health status, will we be tossed out. It seems to be leaning towards the latter. It begs the question, why keep working.

I also addressed the harassing and bullying work conditions with regard to the lack of choice in working with the sick students. The "we can fire you for anything" clause in our contract has placed us all on a precarious ledge.

As usual, I was the only vocal one in the meeting. I guess I don't mind. I think that speaking my mind is important, and that sitting there doesn't accomplish anything both in the moment and long term growth of the program. I could wait until we are behind closed doors, but I hope that my decision to step forth and speak on what I believe is wrong will help others also take the sometimes difficult step of confrontation.

Dinner wasn't set when we were there, so I went off and found Jenna playing piano in the gimnasio (don't ask). It was nice and peaceful momentarily, until lots of CTY Espana kids showed up. They disregarded the music, spoke loudly, and were quite rude.

After dinner, there was a Spa Activity (face masks from oats and honey and stuff) followed by capture the fascist (flag) of the republic vs the nationals. Not sure who won since I spent most of it in my RA meeting.

One of my kids who left has been confirmed with H1N1, the first case on our hall. I hope it isn't the beginning of a trend.

This morning, I was on a field trip. Abysmal. Disaster.

The first site, Calle de lost Caidos, or something like that, was closed due to a local holiday. (Actual first site was a field, which is just there, where a pivotal battle occurs. Pure frustration since I was looking forward to this supposedly amazing and fascinating monument to Franco. Second place was also closed. First had a nice hand written scribbled note that because of a local festival, it's closed. The graveyard or memory site was also closed. No reason given.

No comments:

Post a Comment