STANDARD 7 BEGINS IN JANUARY
CONSTRUCTION NEWS
2005 saw the completion of several major construction projects.
Most important of all is the third classroom building, which has been occupied, containing two classrooms, a chapel, library, computer lab (but no computers yet!), storerooms and small kitchen). This is the last large classroom building which will be needed.
In addition four teacher houses have been constructed and the first dormitory buildings is about 1/3 completed. A fifth new teacher house (the seventh altogether) is under construction. It will be a duplex for singles or small families.
The school year in Tanzania begins the first week of January, and with it Standard 7 (the seventh grade) begins at The Lion of Judah Academy.
Although the standard six students moving up to standard seven represent the smallest class at the school, a new "Awali" (kindergarten) means 30 new students. And, of course, great new excitement and many new expenses...the most significant of which is a new teacher. God is greatly blessing the school.
Parents' Group -- A new parents' organization has been initiated at the school, and everyone with a child attending is part of it. Parents are encouraging one another to join together in working on the school and supporting various projects, and they have set a goal of having 100% participation among parents. There are already some wonderful stories of creative ways parents have contributed to the life of the school. This is an encouraging indication that parents are taking real ownership in the life of the school.
Dormitory -- In August the first 'experiment' with dorm life was started in a temporary building. Although there have been substantial challenges the experiment will continue, and it appears the school may use the borrowed building for longer than originally anticipated. Actual construction of dormitories remains "on hold" pending additional funding.
Other News...