DECEMBER 2024

In Kenya, the school year follows the calendar year so December not only marked the end of the year, but with national and end of year exams completed, children were also preparing for the next grade level. At Cornerstone Preparatory Academy it was another successful year. We can look back with pride as we reflect on the difference and impact that has made, not just over this past academic year, but in the 4 years we have been here. Nelson Mandela famously said, "Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world” and that is what we are seeing; we are seeing worlds changed. Generational chains of poverty are being broken. Children are given hope of a better tomorrow, one filled with opportunity and potential. There are now Cornerstone Preparatory Academy graduates at universities across Kenya as well as 2 graduates studying in America. Cornerstone continues to boast a 0% illiteracy rate among its students and performs in the top 14% nationally. We look ahead to the new school year in January anticipating further success in national exams that build on these significant milestones already achieved. As the school year came to a close we celebrated some of these successes with the LEAP preschool graduation and a High School Prom.

For Caleb, the school holidays began with a trip to Kijabe Mission Hospital. He had a particular nasty fall from a fair height and there were concerns about the significance of the concussion he had received. He had a CT scan and doctors carried out extensive tests. We were very thankful that the only lasting injury from his fall was a fractured wrist. While we were very relieved about this outcome, Caleb was still frustrated about not being about to ride his bike or swim throughout the break. Thankfully his cast has come off in time to return to school next week!

We were also very excited for Sean’s parents to join us for just over a week over Christmas. It is always slightly odd celebrating Christmas in the sun and away from home so it was particularly special to have them with us over Christmas. As well as showing them the different programs of Naomi’s Village and the work that takes place in the community, we were also able to spend a few days away in Naivasha and visit Tsavo National Park for a safari. They also had the treat of experiencing the joys of Kijabe roads after a few days of rain!

We are thankful for a wonderful 2024 and are trusting God as we look forward to all that lies ahead in the coming year. Thank you for joining in and partnering with us, we know that none of this would be possible without your friendship and support. We thank God for you and for standing with us as we say your Kingdom come, your will be done, in the Great Rift Valley, as in Heaven.