In an effort to strengthen the educational system capacity for child-friendly schools in Macedonia, MWAI is continuing its partnership with UNICEF to enhance the teaching of literacy and mathematics. In 2009, MWAI experts (using mathematics and literacy training materials) conducted workshops with Grade 1-3 teachers and advisors from the Bureau for the Development of Education (see entries on March 5, 2009 and June 15, 2009). Upon completion of two MWAI trainings, these participants began training teachers in their own schools in the use of child-friendly strategies. MWAI consultants Judy Rohde, Marium Toure, and Mary Ellen Knappmiller returned to Macedonia for a three-day mathematics workshop (May 25 - May 28, 2010) to provide additional support and strengthen the skills of the original participants. During this workshop, participant trainers learned to use the Fidelity Tool instrument and are now equipped to support their own instruction and lesson development and to conduct peer observations with other teachers. In addition, participants had the opportunity to share their successes and challenges in using the new strategies, to receive feedback and learn from other professionals in the field. The MWAI literacy training in Macedonia is scheduled for August of 2010.
