Before enrolling at Christel House Jamaica, Yolanda S. struggled to keep up with school. “At my old school, I never really understood certain things. I always lost track of things and never got to finish my work on time. I didn’t go outside much and didn’t eat lunch often,” Yolanda says.

Yolanda’s mother, Latoya W., first learned about Christel House two years ago at an event at their old school. Latoya was concerned because she was not working at the time, and the cost of transportation meant Yolanda often missed school, which contributed to Yolanda falling behind, despite Latoya’s efforts at home. “Yolanda’s report wasn’t good in early 2023, and I knew it was because of attendance,” Latoya says.

“I cried and cried because it meant so much to me. It was such a relief.” Latoya recalls how she felt when she received the news of Yolanda’s acceptance into Christel House. She has seen a 100% improvement in Yolanda’s academics and personal growth. Yolanda is now more outspoken, more resilient, and has blossomed into a better person.

Since joining Christel House Jamaica, Yolanda has grown and achieved great things. She recently won the Best Deportment Award. “Deportment is about staying on task and having good manners, that’s what my mom told me,” Yolanda shares. When asked how she felt about her achievement, knowing it also reflects etiquette and how she carries herself, she smiled and said, “It made me feel happy and pleased with myself because I am working hard.”

Yolanda also won character awards in three different months for Kindness, Patience and Motivation. This Grade 4 student says she is grateful for the opportunity to be a part of the Christel House family. “The school is really kind, and I feel like I can finally pick up where I left off. I can now reach my goals for the future,” she says.

Yolanda describes herself as kind, polite, and helpful. She enjoys making friends and spreading happiness. “It felt like home when I was new here when I was in Grade 3. It was my first day and I saw lots of children. I even got to know them, and they know a lot about me,” she says. She recalls seeing another girl sitting alone in the cafeteria. By going over to the girl and making friends, Yolanda showed what it means to be “i” in KiND, an expression featured on the school’s kindness wall. “She was very happy to have a friend. Now, she comes to me for help with work or to borrow a pencil or anything,” Yolanda adds.

Yolanda’s favourite subject is Science, and she dreams of becoming a pediatric nurse. “My mommy told me about what a pediatric nurse does,” recalls Yolanda. She wants to help children like her. Outside of school, Yolanda enjoys singing, especially with her mother. Yolanda also says she likes drawing and being creative.

Latoya reflects on how Yolanda felt at her previous school, saying, “She felt lost, but within the first week at Christel House, she told me she felt at home.”

When asked what she’s most proud of, Yolanda responds, “I’m proud of having a good life, good friends, a safe place to sleep, eat, and learn.”

As Christel House Jamaica expands, Yolanda already has a place secured in the new high school currently under construction. She is excited to continue her journey at Christel House and looks forward to achieving even more.

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