Cindy and I had the chance to meet with Pastor James from the Comido School today, to discuss details about the student scholarships and the well project that will be supported by the Lighthouse Advent Conspiracy donations. It was so eye opening to learn the challenges they face in supporting the students and operating the school.
He told us they lose teachers every 3 months, since they can only pay 1/3 of what the government schools do. Their salaries are dependent upon all students paying full tuition, which is never the case. Government funding is available for partial subsidy of books and materials, but the government is not willing to finance teacher’s salaries.
Many students are allowed to continue their studies at Comido, despite the fact they are unable to pay their tuition. He was so thankful to hear that Lighthouse is willing to fund scholarships, since this will benefit not only the students and their families, but the teachers too.
We also heard some amazing news about the water project. Each student has to carry a 5L water jug to school each day, to contribute to the school’s water supply. There is no guarantee the water is clean, and these containers weigh about 10 pounds! Once the well is completed, the students will no longer have to do this, and they are so excited! The school will also be able to generate revenue from this project, which will help to support teacher’s salaries.
Cindy and I were very impressed with Pastor James and the philosophy of the Comido School. They meet with parents of the 350 students monthly, to facilitate communication and involvement in the school. They have also formed a committee, composed of community leaders and parents of the students, to help oversee issues regarding the well. He realizes that without community support, the school and the well project would not succeed. And without the blessing of financial support from so many of our Lighthouse members, these miracles would not be possible.
I just wanted you to know how much your prayers and support have already done to transform this school, the community, and the people who live here. You ARE making a difference, and we have been blessed to see the fruits of God’s work here…
Bwana Asifiwe!
Heather
(Front row) Erika Yenokida, Garrett Lee, Cindy Ko, Rebekah Ogimachi, Brenden Fong, Josh Chinn, (Second row) Kristine Fu, Dakota Chenoweth, Matt Sekijima, Heather Nakamura, Renee Wong, Nicole Okada, (Back row) Trenton Yenokida, Steve Lee, Dan Ko, Bob Sandefur, John Herburger, Jesse Sandefur, Shawn Terasaki
Our God is awesome! He is at work, and we get to be a part of that. Thanks for sharing this, Heather. Glad you are there with the team!
ReplyDeletethanks for the informative and encouraging post, heather. thanks also to you and cindy for meeting with Pastor James! Very helpful! God bless you! :)
ReplyDeleteHeather, I'm so glad you arrived so quickly & safely. And thanks to you & Cindy for meeting with Pastor James to better understand the needs and how Lighthouse is making a difference. May we continue to bless that wonderful ministry.
ReplyDeleteGreat job in meeting with P James and understanding what the school is about and how we can better serve and partner with them! God is good!
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