Henry Christophe School: Empowering Education in Haiti
In Haiti, education is a critical pathway out of the grinding poverty that many families face. For parents and children alike, access to education is a top priority. Our dear friend Kesner Absolu (LCH leader) has been the administrator of Henry Christophe School in Desarmes since 2010, dedicating his efforts to providing quality education despite significant challenges. One of the biggest hurdles has always been funding.
A Journey of Growth
Henry Christophe School was founded shortly after the devastating 2010 earthquake that shook Haiti. It began with six grades (K1-6), and over the years, expanded to include middle school and high school classrooms. In 2013, the school was officially recognized by the Haitian National Education Minister, and it has since developed a strong reputation. In fact, Henry Christophe School boasts one of the highest pass rates for 9th and 12th-grade national exams in the region for the past two decades.
Today, the school serves 420 students across two locations: the preschool grades, which are tied to the Nazarene Church of Desarmes, and the K1-12 grades, located nearby. With a talented and diverse staff of 48 teachers, Henry Christophe continues to be a pillar of the community, offering a safe space for children to learn and grow.
The school day starts at 7am sharp.
Challenges and Financial Strain
Despite the school’s success, funding remains a constant challenge. Many parents struggle to pay tuition, as they face crises brought on by gang activity and political instability in the region. Some parents contribute what they can for tuition fees, but they often cannot cover the full amount. This year, the school faces a backpay of $5,000 in teacher salaries, underscoring the urgent need for support.
To finance the construction of additional classrooms, Absolu has had to take several loans, the most recent of which he is still repaying and will continue to do so until 2028. The school is seeking long-term and short-term sponsorships to help alleviate these financial pressures, as well as donations of school supplies, materials, and contributions towards teacher salaries.
Lining up ready for another school day.
Sustainable Solutions for a Brighter Future
To support the school sustainably, we have implemented several initiatives, including small business enterprises. These ventures sell basic items like food and cleaning supplies, generating revenue that helps fund both the school and church operations. As we’ve discovered, even small investments, like adding solar panels and a simple refrigerator, can significantly boost profitability and further support the school.
Looking ahead, Henry Christophe School aims to:
1. Launch a lunch program to provide meals for students, teachers, and staff.
2. Expand the school library, adding more books for both students and the wider community.
3. Develop a microfinance program to help parents of students start or expand their own businesses. This program would also explore providing goats to families, with conditions for sustainable growth and shared profits with the school.
4. Expand the existing vocational school, offering training in plumbing, electrical work, carpentry, masonry, English, and computer skills.
Biblical Foundations and Daily Devotion
At Henry Christophe School, faith plays a central role in the daily routine. Every morning at 7:00 AM, students gather for devotion, where we sing, pray, and engage in catechism based on scripture. Biblical knowledge is woven into the curriculum, ensuring that students not only receive academic education but also grow in their spiritual understanding. This focus on spiritual and academic development is a core part of our mission to raise up well-rounded students who can contribute positively to their communities.
Classrooms: Simple but Full of Purpose
The classrooms at Henry Christophe School are basic, yet filled with purpose. Students sit on simple wooden benches, facing a well-worn chalkboard where their teachers deliver lessons that will shape their future. While the facilities may lack the modern amenities seen in more affluent schools, what these classrooms lack in resources, they make up for in heart and dedication.
These basic environments serve as a reminder that education is not about fancy buildings or expensive equipment, but about the connection between teacher and student, the exchange of knowledge, and the perseverance of both. The simplicity of the classrooms reflects the resilience of the school itself, which continues to provide high-quality education despite the challenges of limited funding and resources.
Yet, the atmosphere in these classrooms is vibrant, filled with eager minds ready to learn. It’s a space where dreams are nurtured, and the commitment to education grows stronger with every lesson. Here, students aren’t just learning academic subjects—they’re gaining the tools they need to change their lives and their communities.
Get Involved
As this unique and challenging school year is just beginning, we want to express our heartfelt thanks to God, our teachers, supporters, staff, and the community of Desarmes. The support we have received has been overwhelming, and it is because of you that 420 children have access to education this year.
Henry Christophe School is always looking for individuals and organizations willing to partner with us. Whether through sponsorships, donations, or business investments, your contribution will make a lasting impact. If you have any questions or would like more information about how you can help, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us at LCH.
Email: tim@lastingchangehaiti.org
Together, we can empower education in Desarmes, Haiti, and provide opportunities for the next generation.