When asked why or how they became teachers, almost every single one of the 40 Haitian teachers from Christian Light School and the TLC Barefoot School said that it wasn't their dream to be a teacher when they were a child. They recalled thinking how teachers weren't respected in their culture. They remember students mistreating teachers. They recognized the cultural proverbs about teachers dying poor. All of these stories lead to the label of "reluctant teacher." That is, until all of their stories continued on to say, "but God..." Then they share how God clearly intervened in their lives and gave them a passion to teach and care for the children of Haiti.
How exciting and encouraging it has been to spend each day working with educators who don't just view the task of teaching as a job or a profession, but as a calling, as their mission. How exciting it is to hear teachers recognize that the work that they are doing is given to them by God! I am in awe of these educators and their commitment to raise the hundreds of children in their schools to know God and to love Him with all of their hearts, strength, and minds.
These last few weeks have been full of discussion and collaboration with the Haitian teachers. We have looked at the goal of helping point students toward Christ, of guiding them in their knowledge of who God is and how they can be fully alive in Him alone. We have discussed the hard topics of discipline and "at risk" students. We have pondered questions about assessments and instruction. And all of this work is done with lots of laughter and sincere effort even in the heat of summertime in Haiti. It is so evident each day how precious this calling of teacher is to the Haitian staff. What a blessing it has been to see their constant concern and love for their students and their deep commitment to teach in ways that honor God!
I'm thankful for the opportunity to work with these Haitian teachers and thankful also for the chance to share these experiences with you!
Much love in Christ, Jessie
