On July 10, Grace Emmanuel School celebrated its 10th graduation ceremony. Fourteen students received their diplomas, bringing the total number of GES graduates to 163.
This milestone has been made possible by teachers who pour into their students, families who sacrifice to support their children, and sponsors who set their love on kids they may never meet.
What began in 2004 with just 15 primary students has grown into a ministry that has now shaped hundreds of lives through Christ-centered education—even through these years of instability and displacement caused by gang violence.
Behind the number 163 are stories of perseverance, faith, and the people God used to help each student reach this milestone.
A sister’s love
Jeff’s journey to graduation was shaped by setbacks, perseverance, and the steady support of his older sister, Mailove. After losing their mother when Jeff was only 13, Mailove stepped in to help care for him and his younger sister—even though she was still a teenager herself.
Jeff said Mailove has been a source of encouragement throughout his life. “She is a faithful friend, a counselor, and a role model,” he said. “She has always been there for me, listened to me, given me advice, and encouraged me when I needed it.”
Seeing Jeff and Mailove celebrate together on graduation day was a sweet reminder of the people who helped him reach this milestone.
“I feel very proud to graduate from Grace Emmanuel,” Jeff said. “This moment represents a lot of effort and sacrifice.”
A mom’s steady presence
Another member of the Class of 2026, Dana Lëida, celebrated graduation alongside someone who has supported her throughout her years—her mom. Dana Lëida began attending Grace Emmanuel School in kindergarten in 2011, and 15 years later, she walked across the stage as a graduate.
Daroud, whose story we shared earlier this year, spoke at the graduation as the president of the class. His mom was there to cheer him and his sister on.
The sponsors who sustain the school
In letters written earlier this month, each graduate expressed gratitude to the sponsors who have walked with them on this journey for many years. Here are excerpts from each one:
Jean Kendy, 23
Years at GES: 16
“Your support, courage, and motivation encouraged me to work hard in school. And I promise you that I’ll do my best to succeed and make you proud of me.”
Witty, 23
Years at GES: 9
“The support you gave me to reach the final year means a lot to me, such as the love you always shared through your letters helping me to love God more…just want you to know that all of this, it’s thanks to your contribution to make me who I am today.”
Michaël, 22
Years at GES: 16
“You’re not simply a person who has helped me, you are like a mother to me, a good friend, and family that is always there for me…You’ll always be in my thoughts.”
Kerlens, 20
Years at GES: 11
“I’m truly grateful to you for everything you did for me at school. Thank you very much.”
Mitsouca, 19
Years at GES: 3
“A big thank you to you for Grace Emmanuel School. I will always love it and will never forget the good education it gave me. Grace Emmanuel School will always be in my heart and mind.”
Frantzdy, 24
Years at GES: 8
“A huge thank you for everything you did in my life and all the support you gave me. Well done! If I’ve made it here, it’s only thanks to you. Thanks for your love and generosity. You will always be in my thoughts.”
Daroud, 21
Years at GES: 16
“Even if I deciphered all the books in existence, I would not find enough words to describe your kindness. Although we don’t have the same skin color or culture, that didn’t stop you from accepting me as family and a friend. You’ve been in charge of my education for more than 15 years…you never gave up on me…so for what you’ve done in my life, thank you will never be enough to tell you…”
Rose Carmelle, 19
Years at GES: 14
“Thank you so much. You’ll always be in my heart and I’ll never forget you. I pray that God will always help you in everything you do, and moreover, that all that seems difficult will become easy for you and all your family.”
Jeff, 21
Years at GES: 12
“I thank you for the support you gave me from the time I was in the lower classes until I graduated. I’ll always pray for you and your family and I’ll always love you for you have been a father to me.”
Guévara, 22
Years at GES: 16
“I’m proud of you because it’s thanks to you that I’ve reached this level today. I’ll never forget the support you gave me in school. I’m praying God protects you and all your family and guides you in all you do so you can help another child the way you helped me.”
Marijo, 21
Years at GES: 6
“A big thank you again because my parents didn’t have enough means to get me to this level. I pray for you and your whole family that God blesses and protects you in everything and that you always continue to support other children in need. A big thank you for 6 years of support, because 6 years is not 6 days…”
Dana Leïda, 21
Years at GES: 15
“I’m very grateful for all the support you gave me at school. May God bless you and your family!”
Gemima, 23
Years at GES: 3
“I’ll never forget the sacrifices you’ve made for me by helping me advance with my studies to reach the final level, for my studies are my life’s priority…God put you on my path to help me.”
Martha, 18
Years at GES: 3
“I thank you for everything you’ve done for me and I don’t regret the three years spent at this school. I love you very much and will never forget everything you did for me… Sending you big hugs. Just wanted you to know that I love you always will.”
More gratitude
Beyond their individual sponsors, Jeff expressed gratitude to everyone who has supported Grace Emmanuel School and made opportunities like this possible.
“Without your support, many students like me would not have the opportunity to receive a quality education,” he said. “You have made a tremendous difference in our lives, and we pray that God blesses you greatly.”
Congratulations to the Class of 2026! We celebrate these graduates and thank God for His faithfulness through 10 graduating classes at Grace Emmanuel School.
If you would like to give a student the opportunity for a Christian education, become a sponsor today.