The lovely staff at Escola Baixeras

SAI has partnered with Escola Baixeras — my school! — and several other schools across the Barcelona area to offer students a truly impactful experience. As part of this program, SAI students volunteer as teacher aides in local schools, assisting with English lessons, helping with math, or simply playing with the kids at recess.
This fall, a handful of us took on this opportunity, and I can confidently say we’re all so glad we did. I was assigned to a second-grade English class, and the experience has been nothing short of amazing…

This work is done by Moha, one the most joyful kids. He is always dancing! We always practice writing the date and the weather outside.

Walking into class on my first day, I’ll admit I was nervous. I didn’t know how the kids would react to this tall American suddenly joining their cohesive class. Would they be scared? Would they even accept me? I can happily tell you; I have never been more wrong about anything in my life.
From the moment I stepped through the door, I felt the radiating energy of family. Several kids immediately ran up to greet me with huge smiles, their energy and joy contagious. Their English teacher, Carla, is wonderful and kind. She’s more than a teacher to them — she’s a mother figure. The kids constantly surround her, not just for questions but for hugs or simply to hold her hand. It is unlike anything I have ever seen in a school before.

This is a picture of the recess area the kids at Escola Baixeras have access to. Everytime I walk to school, I see a class out there playing. A business wanted to construct a building here, but the neighborhood protested against it so the kids could have somewhere to play. A very powerful story that expresses how connected the community is here in Barcelona.

It’s inspiring to witness the deep bonds these children share with one another, especially at such a young age. One week, Carla told me that one of the boys, Gurgen, had hit his head during recess. When I saw him, he was resting in the corner with a bag of ice, but he wasn’t alone. Six of his classmates were huddled around him, offering comfort, asking how they could help, and even kissing his head. It’s moments like this that remind me of the profound lessons we can learn from children — their empathy, kindness, and instinctive care for one another are truly humbling. They show us what it means to create a community where everyone feels supported and loved.

A picture I took of a mother waiting for her child at the ionic green door of Escola Baixeras

Now, every week, I look forward to spending time with my class. No matter what kind of day I’m having, these kids never fail to lift my spirits. Their excitement to see me, their hugs when I arrive and leave, it all reminds me of home, where my family are also big huggers :)

I came into this experience thinking I’d be the one teaching them, but these kids have shown me the true meaning of kindness, community, and joy. I’ll carry these lessons with me forever, and for that, I am truly grateful.

Written by: Jameson, Fall 2024 Barcelona student from Kansas State University