When the Haiti government published the results of the 9th grade national exams in August , our principals immediately shared the great news! All ten of our Hope for Haiti’s Children (HFHC) schools scored above the national average, with three schools achieving a remarkable 100% pass rate—meaning every 9th grader passed! This three-day test evaluates students in subjects including French, Haitian Creole, Mathematics, Experimental Sciences, and Citizenship, determining their readiness for higher secondary education. Unfortunately, any student who fails this exam must repeat the 9th grade, regardless of their performance throughout the year.
Brave Students
The 2023-2024 school year was filled with challenges, including intense gang violence and food scarcity. Many students had to listen to police reports to decide whether it was safe to go to school, or which routes to take. At times, gangs prohibited public transportation, forcing students to walk long distances. To avoid drawing attention, children were encouraged not to wear their school uniforms, as this could signal to gangs that their families might have some money. Parents faced tough decisions about whether to send their children to school or keep them home in what they hoped would be a safer environment. Despite these challenges, the students showed remarkable bravery by attending school.
Dedicated Teachers
Our teachers faced similar obstacles yet showed incredible dedication by coming to school each day. These committed leaders are amazing, and we know our investment in them has a direct impact on our students. In August, we sent 82 educators to a three-day professional development workshop that was focused on leadership theories and practices for teachers and students. Their commitment to providing an excellent education shows, and we congratulate them too!
Compassionate Sponsors
In Haiti, approximately 67% of children drop out before the 9th grade. Only 10% of children get to attend a free public school in Haiti. That means privately run schools educate the other 90%, and they all require students to pay for tuition, a school uniform, textbooks, etc. Haitian families who struggle to pay for food, can’t afford to pay for their children to get an education too.
We are so grateful for our HFHC child education sponsors cover these essential costs, providing students with the opportunity to receive an education and become future leaders of Haiti. The students recognize that education is a privilege, and they are immensely grateful for your support. Thanks to your generosity, these 9th graders have passed their national exams and are now advancing to 10th grade. They carry the hope of realizing their dreams and contributing to a brighter future for Haiti.