For thirty years I taught Special Education in public schools in San Antonio, Texas, my hometown. In those years God gave me gifts of diplomacy, grace under pressure, and relationship building. He gave me eyes to see the value in everyone, and to speak with great care.
After retirement I was restless, and took the ministry opportunity to teach in a Catholic school. Then in 2010, I joined a team from Samaritan’s Purse doing relief work in Haiti post-earthquake. My heart fell for the people I met there, and God opened doors to return. Soon I was connected with Christian Light School in Port-au-Prince. I taught and then directed summer school there for four years. After the fifth summer, I thought my time in Haiti had finished. Instead, God was leading me to begin a new school in the small town of Petit Goave.
Much to my surprise, Christian Academy of Petit Goave began in Fall 2014, with three grades: ages 3, 4, and 5. God placed me a well-established local pastor and his family, through whom the teachers and staff were assembled. The children were chosen through a lottery system, and God brought us the neediest students.
Through His provision, the school is still growing today. Our school provides a hot meal, clean water, first aid, and a safe and creative space for the children and staff, a place centered around Jesus. Every day we witness God’s mercy and goodness, and teach and learn about His great love. God uses my experience as a Special Education teacher, relationship building, and love of camping, to bless me abundantly in “Ti” Goave, and permit me to further His kingdom through the ministry of the school.
Beverly Burton
“Madame Beverly” – Missionary School Director