Hello friends! I just updated the Project information page, and thought I better post the new version as a blog post, too, just to make sure everybody gets it. Don't forget to add this page to your RSS reader to make sure you get all the latest news!!
Whether you are new to the project, or have participated before (I know some of you are coming up on your 4th year of participation), please take the time to read through this page, top to botttom. I know it's long but but covers a lot, and even if you have participated before, there are some changes for this year. Please, bear with me, and soldier on. I promise you will get to the signup link in no time!
Kindergarten Around The World 2013?
After completing the signup form, you will be assigned a partner class as soon as an good match becomes available This is new this year - in the past, all the matches were made after a set deadline. Making matches as they come in allows teachers to get started whenever they are ready, and prevents EVERYONE having to wait until ALL the signups are in. It also allows teachers to sign up at any time.
When does the project start?
The signup form will ask you for your ideal start date, so you can start at any time, assuming an appropriate match is available.
How long does the project last?
This is entirely up to you and your partner teacher. To help children build relationships, I recommend that you maintain contact for at least 3 months. You are matched with your partner base on your ideal start date; beyond that, your timeline is entirely up to you.
How do you make the matches?
The signup form collects the information that helps me make the matches. Your match is based on practicalities (i.e. your availability, ideal timeline, and preferred language of communication) and diversity. I make every effort to match classes that are notably different from one another in at least one significant way. The matches are made by hand, with great thought and reflection - this is no computer algorithm!
Am I guaranteed a partner class from another country?
For the purposes of the project, the definition of diversity is not limited to geography. You may get a partner class located in the same country as you, particularly if you are an English-speaking class in North America. However, your partner will be from a different region, and probably from a school setting that is different from yours in at least one significant way. As an example, in the past, an urban school in New York was (very successfully) matched with a school in ranching community in Colorado.!
The most important goal of the project is for children to vicariously experience a life different from their own. The project is what YOU, the teachers, make it.
Once I have a match, what do I do?
When you receive the e-mail confirming your match, you have 10 days to make contact with your partner teacher. If, after that time, you have not received a response from them by e-mail or twitter, please e-mail me (Amy), and I will find you a new match.
Note that if your assigned match reports that you have not responded to their attempts to communicate, and is subsequently assigned a new partner, I cannot guarantee a new placement for you.?
Wait! I need to know something that you haven't covered here!
Please, e-mail me, or find me on twitter: @happycampergirl.
I look forward to hearing from you, and thanks for joining me in this adventure.