Why We Exist - New Kiskeya Christian School

New Kiskeya Christian School (NKCS) is a vital Christian school in Haiti that addresses the significant educational and spiritual needs of the rural population. Situated in Northwest Haiti, close to the city of Jean-Rabel with a population of 150,000, NKCS opened its doors in the fall of 2013 with just 53 preschoolers and two teachers. It officially began its mission to educate a new generation of Haitians through a Christian, English-based curriculum, spanning from pre-kindergarten to university, aiming for a profound and positive transformation in Haitian society.

With 95% of its funding coming from donors in the United States and 5% from parents, NKCS stands out as the only English-based school in the area. Currently, the school serves over 250 students, ranging from pre-kindergarten to 11th grade, offering them a quality Christian education that far surpasses the international and national standards of local public schools. With an approximate staff of 30, NKCS plans to add one grade each year until its students can graduate to university.

Haiti's education system is among the lowest performing in the Western Hemisphere, facing challenges such as:

- A national literacy rate of 60% compared to 90% for Latin America and the Caribbean.

- Only 88% enrollment for primary schools, with a mere 20% for secondary schools.

- 90% of schools operated by communities and organizations with minimal government support.

- 60% of the population living on less than $2 per day.

- 80% of teachers lacking training prior to employment.

- Many underpaid teachers owed a year or more of back pay and often underqualified, lacking fluency in French, the language of instruction.

New Kiskeya Christian School provides its students with a higher quality education by adopting American teaching practices, utilizing American teaching materials, and employing local teachers who are fluent in English and trained in local American schools. This educational approach greatly exceeds what is available in any other schools within a 20-mile radius. Over 95% of the current school support goes towards paying teachers' salaries. Regular classroom observations offer teachers constructive feedback, continually enhancing their performance. Additionally, students receive one meal a day and transportation to and from school, improving attendance and ensuring safety on their journeys.

Many students come from communities where the Voodoo religion is prevalent, and they benefit from learning Christian principles and values alongside their traditional subjects. NKCS fosters a living faith and encourages a personal relationship with Jesus Christ for all students and staff, recognizing the Bible as the foundation for faith, doctrine, and conduct. Graduates will be equipped to seek better opportunities within Haiti and will become ambassadors for Christ wherever they go.

By raising standards of education, professionalism, and Christian living within the community, NKCS aims to serve as a model of effective Christian education that can be replicated throughout Haiti. Committed to providing ever-improving learning opportunities, New Kiskeya Christian School is dedicated to supporting its students through to university, offering education and spiritual guidance that is unmatched in the area, ultimately transforming Haitian society through Christian education.