Service Nepal: Grade 7 Constructs Library in Okhreni

Grade 7 ventured off to the village of Okhreni to help build a library for the 156 students of Ishwori Basic School. After hiking up from Sundarijal, grade 7 quickly settled into camp before heading out to meet the students who had prepared a welcome program for Lincoln School. Two Nepali speakers and two non-Nepali speakers from grade 7 also participated in the welcome program, thanking everyone at Ishwori Basic School for welcoming them. On day 2, after our daily morning yoga, grade 7 went for an incredible hike through jungles and thick bush to the Deurali View Point (2472m). On day 3, the class went back to school to help finish the library. The library project was entirely student-driven. Teachers took a step back and let the students decide how the library was to be set up. After hours of cleaning, clearing and (with the help of local students) sorting, grade 7 had built an incredible library. Day 4 began by helping our local host clear a terrace full of unwanted growth. Even though the afternoon was cut short due to thunder and lighting storms, grade 7 was able to put the finishing touches on the library ahead of the coming storm. We spent the evening playing games and learning about lightning safety, reflecting on our service experience, and dancing by the campfire. All in all, Grade 7 had a really collaborative, illuminative and positive experience!

-Mr. Bell, Mr. Banks and Ms. DiMagno