Fist Bell

School began on September 2, and it was quite the show. I showed up looking like Sailor Moon with a conservative, khaki pleated skirt, white blouse, navy blazer and my fall boots (it was a chilly day), whilst all my soon to be students all looked so fly. I still can't get over all the little boys in their three piece suits and shiny shoes. The little girls all wore white stockings, big bows and pleated skirts. I fit right in with mine.

The tradition all across Moldova, and I quite like it, is to have the oldest students welcome the newest students into the school. It's quite the spectacle, and I'm happy to have captured it on video for your viewing pleasure. The 12th graders parade all the little 1st graders around for the onlookers, listen to some speeches and then walk the youngins to their classes.

In addition to the parade, the Mayor, local Eastern Orthodox Priest, School Director, some 11th grade students, and a couple other guests spoke. There was a karaoke rendition (as per norm at any event here) of a Romanian song and some DJ jams thrown down.

After the "first bell" was rang, the students all went to their home room class where they had an hour of an introductory lessons on Moldovan traditions. See ya tomorrow kids.



What followed next... was the teachers celebration.