The following post features student writing.

This week we started our independent projects. These projects, seperate from the main tasks, are meant to create further sustainable benefits in the community. Each project is designed and carried out by either a small group or individual. However, members of the community are available to help when their skill sets are needed. Also, each group provided a list of required materials for their respective projects for the leaders and foremen to gather.

In total there are seven projects underway. The group consisting of Jeffrey, Wes, Q, and Brian is constructing a sign to mark the entrance to the community. The pair of Sami and Kelly is decorating the soccer field with a mural. The pair of Rachel and Emma is making corn husk dolls for the school in addition to teaching the children how to make them. The group of Sofia, Grace, and Chelsea is making a video project about life in the community. The pair of Jiji and Maya is going to teach English to the local children. Sarah is creating a written account of the Putney group members, and Lou is going to photograph the Qenqan people. Everyday in the village, after working on the main tasks, there will be time alloted to work on these projects.

Today not only marked the begining of independent projects, but it also stands as the day that Putney Group A defeated Putney Group C in a game of soccer. Group A, representing the Qenquenos, dominated over group C, with a score of 6-2.

– Wes