December 2, 2013

The 2013-14 school year is well underway at Grace Private School in Koro, Mali.  There are currently nine students in 1st grade, eleven in 2nd grade, six in 7th grade, twelve in 8th grade, and fourteen in 9th grade. That is a total of 52 students in all.  A very good number, although down a little from last year.  

There is another private school in town now that due to a government subsidy 
has been able to keep tuition very low.  Ibrahima feels that this has kept some parents from enrolling their children at Grace.  He has decided to lower tuition somewhat and has cut teacher's salaries to try to at least maintain the numbers currently enrolled.  Grace has very good teachers and the children are receiving an excellent education as shown by their tests scores last year.  He feels optimistic that this is God's plan.  By allowing the school to grow slowly and intentionally, he is able to provide a more personal touch, able to respond to individual needs, and able to learn to adjust to the ups and downs of running a school in a politically unstable, economically depressed region.

Grace Missions has made a commitment to provide at least 50% of the school's budget for the 2013-14 school year. With a total budget of nearly $20,000, that means we need to raise $10,000.  Please consider a financial gift this month.  These children can literally not receive the great private education they are receiving without help from us. The students and their families are so grateful for all that is being done for them.

Peace,
Brandon