As both a parent and a teacher, I understand how challenging it can be for a child to change schools. They must adapt to a new environment—different classrooms, teachers, routines, and expectations. Most of all, they must find their place among new peers. I was especially concerned because the new school is not only more disciplined but also far more academically rigorous than the one they left behind. Expectations are higher, and the adjustment was bound to be tough.
Truthfully, I had wanted to move them years ago. But the school was too far for our younger children to walk. Thanks to our generous donors, that barrier has now been lifted—we have a van to transport them!
So, with a hopeful heart, I prayed and held my breath.
I believed they could do it. These children are resilient. They’ve overcome more than most people could imagine. But when they brought me their first set of test scores, my heart sank. The majority had failing grades—even the students who had previously been at the top of their class. My confidence wavered, so I prayed even harder.
Last week, the second round of test results for the first trimester came in—and what a difference! One by one, the children rushed into our learning center, madly waving their papers in the air. Their scores had improved dramatically. Their joy was infectious—we danced, we hugged, we laughed, and we cheered together!
But the most beautiful moment came when we saw how the children responded to the two students (we won’t name names!) who still hadn’t passed—but had doubled their scores. Without hesitation, the other children surrounded them with cheers and a giant group hug. That moment moved me to tears. I have never witnessed such pure, heartfelt encouragement and kindness.
Our primary children proudly displaying their improved test results!
