New Faces and News at Peace House Academy

Introducing Theopista Seuya, the first headmistress of Peace House Academy! As in the United States there are not a lot of seondary heads who are women so we are also excited to have her as part of the leadership team. Theo has been an English teacher for several years and the assistant head (where she assumed virtually all of the head duties) at a private school in Moshi. She has been working for PHF in Moshi on a part-time basis where she helps organize the scholarships paid to students in need in that area. Her interview significantly impressed the hiring team who overwhelmingly supported Theo as the best candidate. Theo's husband works for WorldVision. They have 3 children and another on the way.

Dickson Casmiri is our first accountant/purchaser. He is from the Moshi area and has just graduated from an accountancy institute here in Arusha. This is his first professional job. This was a difficult position to fill, given the financial responsibilities and the scope of the work required. Some applicants were just too expensive, others were clearly not trustworthy. The two finalists were split--one has good accounting experience but no purchasing, the other had purchasing but no accounting experience. Mark devised a great problem-solving task requiring both candidates to perform simulated job duties using an accounting program neither had used before. Dickson quickly showed himself to be the best candidate for the job.

Things are proceeding on the construction front, sometimes well, sometimes slowly. We are in the "short rains" season, but were deluged last week, causing a work slowdown and some damage to some foundations and water tanks. The inconvenience is offset by the realization that lots of rain and sunny warm(er) days means great crops and more food for the people.

A big thanks to those who attended and/or supported our annual Colors of Hope fundraiser. It sounded fabulous and we are anxiously waiting for our chance to see the photos and video that was shot here in October. Turnout was excellent and the generosity of so many people will definitely make a difference in the lives of children here in Tanzania.

We are anticipating the arrival in February of Project 640's return. This is a group of folks from the Chicago area who have given their heart and soul (and cash) to further our work. They were here last February and worked on the tree nursery and the banda and are returning for more fun and hard work. A group of 20 teachers from Minnesota, Mississippi, Chicago, and New York will arrive in June to share their expertise in curriculum writing and best practice methodologies with our teachers and students (and perhaps other teachers in the area as well). Another 640 group will show up in September. What a blessing to have so many who are willing to share their time and talents with us!

Of course, there's always room for more. Our volunteer housing is quite suitable for a longer stay! Karibuni wote (welcome to all!)