This past year, school attendance in Haiti has been extremely limited but we are looking forward to seeing students back in class.
Last fall, there were violent demonstrations throughout Haiti and schools did not open until January 5, 2020. Then, because of COVID-19, schools closed less than three months later on March 25, 2020, and remained closed for the rest of the year. The Haitian government will decide what to do about the national testing and the lost months of the 2019-2020 school year.
The new school year of 2020-2021 officially started on August 10. Under the leadership of Pastor Delamy Bazilme, Terre Blanche had been preparing for school to officially open again with COVID-19 precautions in place.
Students are required to wear face masks and practice social distancing. Social distancing is counter cultural in Haiti where people often sit side-by-side and walk with arms around each other. The HFH board is proud of the efforts of the Terre Blanche community as they come together for the benefit and health of all.
The students in the Women’s Trade School spent the summer making face masks. This became a great way for first-year students to learn basic sewing techniques such as cutting fabric, threading needles, and using a treadle sewing machine. These students received the satisfaction of finishing projects and making a difference in their community.
Thank you for your support. Your efforts have made it possible to bring HOPE in in these days of uncertainty.
By Linda Markee, HFH Founder Emerita