What's Next?

This photo is 3 of the 4 from SaP Methodist School who did not have the money to pay tuition so they could take the national exam.The option was to repeat the 6th grade and try next year.

Their teacher was concerned they were each good students, would probably continue their education and parents just did not have the money needed to make the last tuition payment.

Sixth grade is the end of education for many on the island of La Gonave. More that 40% of children never make it even this far. The next step is "seconday school" for 3 years or the equivalent of our middle school. A number of secondary school students are gardeners and parents who can only continue education when they are no longer dependent on their parents who may have 10 in school.

I had the honor of paying tuition for these 3 plus 1 because those attending my 50th High School Class reunion in September donated $300.00 plus to our mission here on sud la gonave. We decided the funds should be used for education needs which have been a focus of our mission the last two years. We also selected a young father of two for a "Chaffeur Training Program" so he can accept a job offered and put his two little ones in school The interesting thing is with five scholarships we still have nearly $300.00 left for more education grants.

Because of the "system" it is most successful when money is given directly to the student's teacher who then records tuition paid and gives the money to the school director. The money must then be given to the Home Office in PaP, if Methodist or to the Administrative Office of other agencies and often it is not credited to the student.

It is difficult to pay scholarships for university and vocational schools as the registration and fees schedules that are given to prospective students never include additional fees for books and equipment. Sponsors of students frequently are asked for additional funds as are parents or students trying to pay their own support. There seems to be a mind set that if one asks for all that is needed it will be denied, but if once a student is committed it is hard to refuse further requests.

We have also learned that often students and parents have funds to pay a portion of tuition and expenses but do not volunteer that information as there are so many other areas where money is needed.

We are now offerning "grants" for portions of tuitions and have found that if the student can not provide the difference they will either select another educational option, save until they have the total amount or raise additional funds from family if they have them. In many cases we must rely on trusted leaders who know family history.

We are grateful for those who are investing in the future of young people and young adults who will eventually be responsible for needed change in the Haiti systems. We will continue to monitor the Starthrower Scholarship Program with local assistance, when our appointment ends.

Donations for Starthrower Scholarships can be made by:

Making a check payable to: Central UMC Advance #982465-6. On the memo line write "scholarship"
Mail the check to: Lawrence Central UMC, 1501 Massachusetts, Lawrence KS 66044

Thank you so very much. www.centralumclawrence.org