Olancho Aid Spotlight: Katie McClave
Age: 24
Hometown: Overland Park, KS
University: Creighton University
When did you join Olancho Aid?
I joined OAF at the end of August 2017.
How did you first hear about Olancho Aid?
I first heard about Olancho Aid through the Catholic Volunteer Network, and then I saw a posting for a teaching position on Idealist.
What is your role at Olancho Aid?
I teach English and Art at the Centro Escolar Bilingue Santa Clara (the bilingual elementary school).
What is your favorite part of your job?
My favorite part of my job is how different it is every day. I teach two different subjects to all of the students from first grade through sixth grade, so every day is a new adventure. I have the unique opportunity to get to know every single student in the school, and watch them grow and express their creativity.
Do you have a favorite memory of your time at Olancho Aid?
My favorite memory is watching my students compete at the spelling bee against three other local bilingual schools. I had spent a lot of time working with our 10 competitors, helping them practice, and they won two out of three first place prizes. Watching them succeed, seeing all their hard work pay off, was incredible.
What is the funniest thing a student has ever said?
One day, one of my 5th graders was being a little rowdy and kept yelling and mooing like a cow. After asking the student to stop several times, I told them that if I heard another sound, they would be in trouble. Not five seconds later, a real cow right outside the window went “MOOOO!” as loud as it possibly could, and the entire class, including me, could not stop laughing.
How would you describe your class?
My class is different every single day, and I would describe it as controlled chaos. In ESL, there are lots of songs and games to make sure the students are practicing their English. In art, the students are constantly surprising me with their incredible talent and creativity.
What is a fun fact about yourself?
I really, really love McDonald’s French fries.
Interested in a long-term volunteer project with Olancho Aid? Apply now at www.olanchoaid.org/ways-to-help/service-abroad/ or contact us at volunteers@olanchoaid.org today!