For Whom The Bells Toll?

We began our third school year in September with three teacheers and 42 children including 2 orphans that reside in our orphanage. Fortunately, for us, Kari Fjeldberg came to us from Oslo, Norway in August as volunteer. In order to accept the two orphans we needed a caregiver and Kari was there to help out. We subsequently retained a fulltime caregiver with the thought that she might also serve as a back up to the teachers if one of them were to be absent. Our planning could not have been more prescient.

Shortly before Christmas, Marie Chalm, our second grade teacher passed away and we did have to call upon the caregiver to step up after the holidays to assume a teaching role. With this adjustment, school continued with the caregiver also serving as a teacher. In mid-January, Kari departed as scheduled to return to her home in Oslo. At the same time, Sacha Christianson joined the team in Hinche as the new Executive Administrator. Since Kari's departure the children have asked about her but have been too busy with school work and activities to let it get to them. School work, team sports and movie days, along with an introduction to English have kept them active and enthralled daily. They now have a repertoire of Kreyol, French and English songs to keep them humming all day long- "Head, shoulders, knees and toes" has been a favorite!

Last week, we  started our end of the month exams allowing the students to prove their skills and demonstrate the progress they've achieved. Much credit is due to the dedication and diligence of the teachers for really pushing our students, especially Mr. Moscovard working with a group of about 10 students until 5 pm mostdays. This week, our fortunes turn sour once more. Mr. Moscovard's father passed away and we were all very sad. Then our caregiver told us that she does not want to teach, but rather remain as a caregiver only. As a consequence, Sacha will now teach the second grade while she looks for a new second grade teacher. Fortunately, Sacha is very qualified to teach the class and speaks English, French and Kreoyle.

Now that February is here, we look forward to our many visitors coming and bringing with them a wealth of resources and energy. With their help, we are eager to improve some basic infrastructure on site as well as bring new faces to the children, in combination with health
workshops and basic check-ups. Much thanks for the time and effort from our friends and collaborators soon to join us!

We remain steadfast and eager despite the many challenges of running and orphanage and school in Hinche, Haiti.

Sacha Christianson