Fruits of Labor

Painting in the library...a quote from Nelson Mandela

After-School English Book Club

The classrooms after painting

Seeing fruit from a lot of labor is an amazing feeling. We officially opened our library almost three weeks ago! I cannot believe that it has been that long already.  I unfortunately and very sadly was not able to be there because of a little malaria issue but Jacob said that he was excited to be overwhelmed with student request for books on the first day the library was opened. He said he must have checked out books to two-thirds of the entire school. I was so happy to hear the great need and desire for books. Students are allowed to keep the books for up to three days, after which they may renew them for an additional three days or return them and choose another. Due to the limited number of books we have in the library (books are ridiculously overpriced here and made way too cheaply) students can only check out one book at a time, and we only have one copy of some of the books needed. We want to possibly purchase some more books before we leave in May, but for now we are working with the books that we have. We have elected two students to serve as school librarians, and they will help keep track of what student has what book, ensure books are returned on time, and that the books are taken care of.  So far students have done a great job renewing and returning their books. There are always a few though who don’t want to give up their book or just forget it at home. However, this is a huge improvement from previous years, as over 400 books donated by U.S. AID had been locked away in the headmaster’s office because of lack of teacher motivation to complete the work necessary to issue books to students and fear that students would steal textbooks. I worry that when we leave the library will be locked and students will not be able to have the books. I am trying not to think about it. Overall, the library is a great resource for the students and a great illustration of how generous people who love the Lord are. Jacob and I have also painted the outside of the classrooms cream and blue, and we are now working on painting the chalkboards. Most of the chalkboards are faded, have holes all over them, and are in generally bad condition. Another teacher has started to fill the holes with cement, and Jacob and I found some chalkboard paint in the town, so the chalkboards have become our newest project. I love seeing all the progress and the students benefiting from it. It brings such a different atmosphere to the school that it is valuable and worthy to be taken care of. Again, I will say thank you to you, because as you well know that none of this would be accomplished or possible without you. Please know that not only do I appreciate all your help and sacrifice, but so do the students and community!!! I love you and miss you as always! katie :)