As our students head back to school in America, our Kenya students are heading back to school as well, but for them, this is the final term of their school year. Their school calendar begins in January and ends the first of November with breaks along the way.
The focus of term 3 is to complete the syllabus and prepare for the end of the year exams. For grade 8, this is especially important because their final few days of school will be taking a nationalized exam (called KCPE - Kenya Certificate Primary Education) that is highly governed, like our SAT or ACT (college entrance exams). The results of that one exam will determine IF they can go on to high school and WHERE they can attend high school.
High school is not compulsory and it is not free in Kenya, but it is important if they are going to be able to get a better job or even possibly go to college. Because of the importance of this exam, much effort is poured into preparation from the students, the faculty and the parents. We have seen wonderful success for our students and are praying the same for this year's class.
Because their school days are long, we offer boarding for them at or nearby the school so they don't have so far to walk in the morning and evening.
This is the first class that has gone all the way through our schools. They started in Kindergarten 1 back in 2007 at 4 years old. What a joy it has been to watch them grow! They love God and are very hard workers! Will you please pray with us that God will help all of our students and faculty finish the year strong?
Class 8 students going over their recent practice exam with one of our dedicated teachers.
Another class 8 revision group.
Grade 7 hard at work. This is the hardest year for school work because they actually work to complete all of the primary school syllabus so grade 8 can focus on review and preparation for the KCPE exam.
The pace in kindergarten is very different. It's rest time for these sweet little ones that in 10 short years will be completing their primary school education.
Thank you for making a HUGE difference in the life of this and every child in Fox River schools in Kenya. We have 900 children from age 3 to high school whose lives have been changed because of the opportunity they have to receive a great education, food and basic medical care through your sponsorship. You have changed lives and eternities for them, their families and these 2 communities on the other side of the planet. Thank you!