Project Overview and Sustainability

Mabuchi and me in 2006 - 10 years ago!

One of the key measures of success in any project or program its sustainability.  Often we hear of programs that are quite successful until the funding runs out, the leadership changes, or the momentum is lost.  Teachers may receive training but do not continue practicing what they have been taught because no one monitors, reinforces, or encourages them.  I am excited about this model because it has a self-sustaining aspect. 

 

Mabuchi models a lesson 

The goal of this trip is two-fold. First to model lessons for teachers, have them practice what they observed, observe them teach while we provide feedback and then provide a workshop based on needs.  This basically follows what we practiced in Lusaka in February only now in rural Eastern Province. We will travel to one or two villages a day to model lessons and then return a week later to each village to observe teachers using some of strategies they observed us model.  We will put on a training for teachers at the end of the month.

 

Mabuchi and me in 2015

The second goal of the project – which will help ensure self-sustainability, is to train and empower Mabuchi, the coordinator of CCAP community schools, so she can model effective lessons, reflect with teachers, observe, and provide feedback to teachers to reinforce these practices long after I am gone.  She will be checking in with each school via text messaging as well as periodic school visits.

I have known Mabuchi since 2005.  She was one of the first community schools teachers in CCAP.  She has been the head teacher at Mtendere and a trainer of trainers for the Strengthening Children program. 

Mabuchi with co-trainer and author of Strengthening Children, Dr. Bob

In her new role as Coordinator for CCAP Community Schools, Mabuchi will work closely with teachers to improve their teaching methodologies and also encourage and monitor the after school Strengthening Children program that helps children understand their feelings and deal with trauma and grief.  Her understanding of both the academic needs as well as social and emotional needs of children make her an excellent choice in this role.

Dr Chilenje and Mabuchi hold their copies of the AWSP magazine