Distance Learning in Haiti

As the world has been experiencing the COVID-19 pandemic, I have been in regular communication with our staff in Haiti. As the number of confirmed cases and deaths continue to rise in the US, statistics remain low at this time in Haiti, with 74 confirmed cases and 6 deaths. The US Embassy in Port Au Prince indicates that measures have been implemented to limit the spread of the virus, with schools, universities, vocational centers, and factories closed until further notice; gatherings larger than 10 people have been banned. A curfew is in place from 8 pm-5 am. We continue to pray that the health of the country remains strong.

As schools in the US have moved to Distance Learning, our staff in Haiti made the move to that option as well today. Mr. Baudelaire, our Pedagogical Director, sends his appreciation:

“On behalf of the administration team, I wish that you, the members of kozefò and our dear sponsors, not to mention the members of your families, are in good health.  We are aware of the seriousness of the situation in the United States and in the world and we are very sorry for it.  We wish you courage.”

As the need arose to create an opportunity for students to access their education, he continues:

“In Haiti also, only the largest schools can offer distance learning courses while the majority are neglected.  We are concerned to support our children, the majority of whom do not have the opportunity to have electronic equipment at home or to see a stable Internet connection, we will resume with the distribution of weekly programs and homework from this  Monday April 27, 2020. The teachers are already at work this week on the initiative of Mr. Rock. It really affects us that you care about staff and students.”

And so it begins. Teachers shared plans with the administration team via WhatsApp, lessons were printed, and parents were invited to come to the school for material pick-up. One by one family members began arriving at the school today. Administrative staff members have divided up the days so that only one or two staff members are present each day. They are using caution to avoid the spread of germs.

Please continue to keep them all in your thoughts and prayers as they embark on this new adventure of Distance Learning. The dedication of staff to educate and our students’ desire to learn are impressive. Thank you all for your continued support of these teachers, students, and their families! God bless you all!