This Issue:

Table of Contents

Cover Story

Cover Story - Spanish Version

Mini-Lesson

Comprehension Quiz

Teacher's Guide and Worksheets

Tough Lessons

Spanish Translation

What is second grade like in the Asian nation of Afghanistan? At one school, in an area called Herat, the second graders huddle in a tent. A fierce desert wind nearly rips the class's only textbook from students' hands. There is no playground, no running water and only a hole in the ground for a bathroom. But the girls at this school feel lucky. Not long ago, Afghanistan's girls were not allowed to go to school at all.

Life After Harsh Leadership

From 1996 until 2001, Afghanistan was ruled by the Taliban (tah-lee-bahn). This group made strict rules based on religious laws. Sending girls to school became illegal.

U.S.-led forces drove the Taliban out of power in 2001. Since then, 3,500 schools have opened. They do not have enough money or teachers.

"Our students have talent and a passion for learning," says school principal Suraya Sarwary. "But we still have problems."

One problem is that there are not many women teachers. Some traditional Afghan families do not want their daughters to learn from male teachers. Also, Afghanistan is still a dangerous place. Some schools are not safe.

"I am afraid," says Lida Ahmadyar, 12. She dreams of becoming a doctor. "But I like school because I am learning something, and that will make me important. With education, I can save my country."

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