To celebrate National Teacher Appreciation Day in Haiti, we interviewed one of the most beloved and longest-serving teachers on Grace Emmanuel School’s staff, Mésidor Louis Jacques.

Known as “Mr. Jackie” or “Mèt Mésidor,” Mésidor has been teaching geometry and algebra to 7th, 8th, and 9th graders at GES for the last decade.

“Mr. Jackie is a good teacher,” said Jessie Hyacinthe, an 8th grader. “He is comfortable with all his students, and we are comfortable with him, too. That’s why we always can understand his classes.”

“He is one of the best teachers at GES,” said Maudeline, GES school secretary. “He’s very wise and dependable.”

We sat down to ask Mr. Jackie a few questions about his time at GES, his family, and his faith.

What has been the best part about teaching at Grace Emmanuel School?

Grace Emmanuel School is a school that I love. The relationships that the school has provided for me have always been wonderful.

Do you have a favorite memory from your time at Grace Emmanuel School?

The best memories for me are the friendships I create with my students. They are all my friends.

Can you describe a typical day on your job?

I am a math teacher at GES. Before I come to give the lesson, I prepare the lesson. And before every lesson I present, I always take time to just have a conversation with the kids.

Is there an achievement you are most proud of?

My biggest source of pride is that I’m a Christian.

Where do you hope to see GES in the future?

My big vision for GES, and I don’t know if this will happen, but I would like to have a professional school or a university. Because there are lots of kids who finish high school but can’t go to university.

Have there been any moments you wanted to quit?

No, I’ve never wanted to quit because I like education a lot.

How does your faith in Christ impact your work?

My faith always makes me know that my day is going to go well. Sometimes, there are some kids that try to make me angry, but since I’ve already decided my day is good, I can never get angry.

How do you listen to the Spirit throughout the day?

Everything that comes from my heart and my mouth, that is good and can help my students grow, I always believe is the Spirit of God communicating with me.

What is your favorite Bible story?

My favorite Bible story is Job.

Tell us about your family.

I’m married and have two sons. We are a Christian family.

What do you do in your free time?

I like to read my Bible and Spanish books.

Where did you grow up?

I was born in Cap-Haïtien. I came to Port au Prince when I was 9 years old. In 1996, I went to live in Source Matelas. I got married here and made my life. My mom and dad died in Cap-Haïtien. I grew up with an uncle.

Do you have any mentors or people who deeply influence who you are and what you believe?

My uncle that raised me, Elius, is my model. He contributed to the person I am today.

Do you have any moments that changed your life?

My encounter with Jesus changed my life. I was sick and I couldn’t find healing. I accepted Jesus and I was healed.

With so many organizations working in Haiti, why should people support JiHM?

For me, JiHM is the best organization in Cabaret. You may not see first-hand the great work being done, but there are many children who could not go to school without this opportunity.

How can we be praying for you?

Pray for my spiritual life, for my health, and my family.

Wendy Pierre began working for JiHM in 2019 as the sponsorship assistant. She currently serves as a liaison for the students of Grace Emmanuel School and assists with communications. Wendy lives in Minotrie with her mom, brother, and sister.