Diligently focused on her book, Rubelina* practices reading and writing in Spanish. Many students speak Haitian Creole at home, so learning to read and write in Spanish can be challenging, but will be a great asset in the long run.
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It is not uncommon for three or four balls, and several different sports, to be played simultaneously during recess. These students enjoy the blessing of an open, safe space to play.
PE on the terrace on a hot Santo Domingo day can be challenging, but these little ones enjoy the time with their dedicated teacher.
English teacher David Johnson teaches the older students about past, present, and future tenses. A little demonstration goes a long way! These kids are learning simple conversational English.
Each person on staff at Jesus en Los Niños, Santo Domingo East, has a story of overcoming challenges, which further qualifies them to care for these children who have their own challenging stories.
In a dense city barrio, open space is rare and coveted. The students are grateful that they get to play on this “field” under their national flag. The Dominican flag is the only national flag with an open Bible on it – John 8:32.
The 4- and 5-year-olds are taught to read using the “Estrellita” program. The letter sound is paired with a word that starts with that letter, and the students chant the word followed by the sound – avión, avión, a, a, a.
Teacher Chantal guides her students as they read from their Spanish language books. Students and teachers of diverse backgrounds, Dominican, Haitian, Venezuelan, etc., study and play together as they learn that God made each one unique and special.
Life outside of the school is hard for most students. At school the children learn to receive unconditional love, are treated with respect and kindness, and come to trust their teachers.
These little ones have had a wonderful physical education class and are headed back to their classroom. Not only do they get to expend a little energy, they learn about healthy life habits.
As Carmen* swings across the monkey bars, she not only gains strength, but also confidence. Her smile says it all!
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Dressed in their colorful shirts, these students enjoy the thrill of flying through the air on the swings.
Maria* thoroughly enjoys flying down the tube slide, hops up and chases her friends to the top, eager to descend again.