Alternative Break Project

2008 Alternative Break Trip

January 6-12 - Thirteen Brothers participated in the first Teach For America Alternative Break Trip to Carl T. Smith Middle School in Phoenix, Arizona.

January 6

Brothers arrived at the Sky Harbor International Airport, many after 5 hour or longer flights. From there they rode shuttles to the Embassy Suites where they all eventually met up. Everyone got to know one another as they settled in for the week. That night the Brothers in attendance met with some local TFA teachers for dinner.

January 7

Brothers arrived at Carl T. Smith Middle School at 8:00 am this morning. They met with the principal to discuss the plans for the week. Brothers were escorted outside into the rain to unload 25 trees from the delivery truck. They managed to plant 13 trees in the rain by the end of the afternoon.

January 8

Brothers worked into classrooms today. They helped teachers, sat in on grade level meetings, and got to work one on one with students. Brothers met local TFA teachers for dinner at Macayo's Mexican Restaurant.

January 9

Brothers planted the rest of the 12 trees today. They also spread a lot (half a ton!) of red rock and placed the school's initials in the rock.