A TIME FOR PHASING OUT AT HILLTOP
Dear Friends and Partners of Hilltop,
As there is a time for everything, so it is with this transitioning period for me, from Hilltop Schools, Inc. (HSI). Coming out of an adverse situation associated with the former More Than Me Foundation (MTM), that would have altered the entity’s fate either positively or otherwise, the Senior Management Team (SMT), with all hands on deck, rallied towards an establishment of HSI approximately two and a half years ago.
Hilltop is likened to the Phoenix Rising, the mythical bird from Greek mythology, which after extreme hardship, challenges and disgrace, resurrects from the ashes, and springs into a renewed, vibrant youth. In spite of these setbacks, Hilltop has continued to ascend to beat all odds, hence the selection of its name and motto: “… rising to the top”.
With many funders’ flight from the former More Than Me Academy, our team sought out diverse supporters which are catapulting Hilltop to new levels of success. Refined strategies, particularly looking within the Liberian cultural context from which to secure funding and support have made a positive impact on the continuation and formulation of programs. Beginning with a robust Safety and Child Protection department, to programs such as Scholarships, the Survivor’s Program, “Great Mind Girls”, a solar-powered campus, Digital Learning Center, the Arts, Entrepreneurial initiatives, etc., the Academy leads the path to overall excellence in academics as well as extracurricular activities.
From its inception, the team has secured sectoral clearances from the various Ministries, and accreditation to operate as a national non-governmental organization in Liberia. It has also forged meaningful relationships with the current government administration.
Even through the COVID-19 Pandemic, Hilltop ensured that learning activities were conducted to ensure the improvement of student outcomes. There was also the distribution of food and sanitary supplies to our students and their families to keep them nutritionally and healthily safe.
As I relinquish my post as Executive Director and turn the page towards new adventures, I am truly relying on the talented team, headed by the Director of Safety, Mrs. Sylvestine Payne Gbessagee to persist on the path of continuous academic improvement, safety, wellness, and forging new partnerships to ensure sustainability and growth. The commitment of the team ensuring that every child is safe, happy, and learning coupled with their loyalty and relentless attributes will certainly help to carry Hilltop through this transition.
Let me close by stating that, though I am officially stepping away as ED, I will continue to support whatever I can do to assist the girls and Hilltop in these two categories. I will be most determined and grateful to see it come to fruition.
For the girls!