No School...for Now

The day before school was to resume after winter break, we had heard that the Nigerian government had closed all schools until February 4th for voter registration. The Federal Government stated that schools would be used for voter registration stations for the upcoming April elections. Our school, which is a private school, resumed on Monday, January 10th as scheduled with authority from the US Embassy. We made it through seven school days, but closed the day after this news article was published. On Wednesday, we were informed that Pre-K through grade 8 would be closed until February 1st. The board meets today, January 20th, to decide what to do with grades 9-12 and AP students. It is possible that both of us will have 2 weeks off, but it is also possible that Jordan will have to work for a couple hours a day to ensure that his AP students learn what is needed before the AP exam in May. We are awaiting the final decisions, but are keeping our fingers crossed for another holiday.

This article was published today, in light of our school closure.

One of our reasons for teaching abroad was to learn about a different culture and its political history and progress. Although this is a difficult time in Nigeria's history, it's exciting to be learning from our experiences in Nigeria.

Although the Ministry of Education has closed school until February 4th, recent statements from his office have not been as specific. Statements are now stating schools will open in February, with no specific date. Another worry is that when the elections take place, schools will be closed again. We have already been told that there will be three days in April dedicated as "no movement" days. We shall see what this election year brings...we will keep you informed.