Called into the Principle's Office

Growing up you never wanted to be called in for a meeting with the principle. Well, the other day i was called in for a meeting with ten principles. However, this was much more pleasant than such a scenario would have been in elementary school. The principles, or head teachers as they are called here, had gathered with Joseph and Ellen to discuss the lunch feeding program sponsored by the UMOJA project.

The teachers expressed appreciation for the improved performance of the students, and the increased rate of retention. They said that the students were staying in school, because they did not have to search for food, and they said the students were performing better because they could pay better attention when they were not constantly thinking about being hungry.

Joseph facilitated the discussion well, and encouraged people to talk about what worked well with the program, but also to bring up their concerns. Many teachers expressed worries about making the food supply last to the end of the month. So, the principles from the schools who were not having these problems shared what they were doing with the other principles. They discussed ways in which they supplemented the food that they were given with vegetables they grew, and how they carefully rationed the food, so that none was wasted. These principles talked about how they wanted the community to cary much of the responsibility for feeding the children along with the UMOJA project. That way, if UMOJA is not available to help in the future it will be alright, because the schools are striving toward self-sustainability. In regards to the principles helping one another one said, "We may continue to compete in all facets academic, but when it comes to feeding and caring for the children we must work together and share ideas."

It was wonderful seeing the schools working together for a common good. Again, so much can be accomplished from a desire for umoja (unity). That was by far the bet visit to the principle's office that I've ever had!