Preparing for the visit from the staff of BT Dahan Community School, Baltimore, I could not really foresee what a magnificent program I will be in. I was unaware of the potentials of the program as a person or a teacher.
But let us see the features one by one.
Thanks to my blessings, courage and my wonderful colleague, Dr. Andrea Tóth for my getting into the program. When getting ready for the first visit of BT staff we were trying to match pairs of co-workers. As there was a History teacher, it seemed to be obvious to make a History teacher match. I was glad to cooperate. We recommended themes for the first team work. We selected events from American history which we both teach. Good luck that we had Mr. Joel Monroe with his memorable personal qualities and teaching skills. Students loved him, strong relationships formed of the outset. I could pick up a new vision and conducts of classes. If Morim Limmud Program had been just this, I could have been lucky as well.
Half a year later a competition has been announced for Scheiber staff so as to participate in the return visit. I did not consider to apply since I have got serious problems with English communication. However, I was courageous enough and encouraged by Dr. Andrea Tóth to apply with a shared project. We pre-planned to have my sketch of historical background for her lectures of Chassidim in the 20th century Hungary. Our application was welcomed, but it was just me to make the trip because my colleague could not make it due to prior commitments.
I had hard feelings while preparing. I was stressed by being unable to meet expectations, but I was having a natural interest in the different cultural background at the same time. It was all new and interesting. I visited classes on different subjects and saw lessons in different age groups. I could conduct classes and seminars myself on the history of 20th century Hungary focusing on Jewish life and communist past.
Emotional involvement became the prime strength of the program. Bridging over Jewish communities. I was feeling like this from the very first moment on. Everybody was open-hearted, teachers and students were all very friendly. It was a great pleasure when Joe Bosley asked me for my presentation so that he could use the caricatures in his classes. I was also pleased to be provided with supplementary material for teaching History. They all helped me without being asked. When realizing my language difficulties the students were also very helpful and sympathetic with me. At their next time in Budapest, I could greet them as if they were my own students.
My supreme gain was to get to know Rabbi Soskil who proved to be like the onion which becomes more and more familiar as you peel one layer after another. He is a strict rabbi, a caring leader, a humorous person, and a real gourmet.
Special thanks to Alan Reinitz who encouraged, supported and even empowered me and even accompanied me in teaching at BT sometimes.
I have already gained lots out of this program. Now is the time to contribute to it. To do so I am taking every single opportunity to witness about this cooperation hoping to get more and more teachers and students involved.
Csaba Patkó, History teacher, SSG
