Heritage

Last week, the inland trip with its cultural excursions and unlimited hot tea (thank you Rosa’s continental breakfast) drew to a close and gave way to a reality of full time teaching at Isla Bonita. Having spent the past few days wandering around ruins and, thanks to ATM, being literally immersed in history, I walked into school last Monday with the idea of Belizean heritage at the forefront my mind.

With such a rich and remarkable history, it only makes sense that Belizean students feel so connected to their past. They know their roots, and as a result are able to carry on the form and customs of their ancestors. These students feel much more of a connection to their forefathers than I do to the pale Bowdrings who crossed the Atlantic decades ago, bestowing upon me sunburns and freckles.

It is interesting to hear these students spout out knowledge of Caracol, Lamanai, and Xunantunich, whereas I have seen students in the US struggle to name the first two presidents. However, these students who know so much about ancient ruins are the same ones who overexert themselves trying to spell “house” and cringe in fear when they see fractions on the board. There is a great imbalance of what the students know about their heritage and what they need to learn about the rest of the world in order for them to be successful and carry on the heritage they are so proud of.