Bold education pilot in Liberia shows learning gains, areas to grow, but overall impact and hope for Liberian children: A response from Hilltop Schools
“The pessimist complains about the wind. The optimist expects it to change. The realist adjusts the sail.” William A. Ward.
Hilltop Schools Inc. is a Liberian-led NGO formed in response to the closing of MTM, to ensure the continuation of education for 4000 students in MTM’s care and beyond. We have chosen to be realists and adjust the sail towards ensuring every child is educated, healthy and safe to reach the top of their potential. Hilltop Schools is established with entirely Liberian governance and leadership, and a deep focus on safeguarding. With approval from the Ministry of Education, Hilltop has assumed the responsibility to manage the former MTM’s 18 government schools through the Liberian Education Advancement Program (LEAP).
We write this analysis in the spirit of growth and possibility, in the spirit of correcting wrongs, improving in all areas to ensure our children are learning, safe and healthy. And most of all, we write it in the spirit of hope for our children and the future of our country, Liberia.
The following data and findings are our interpretation of the results from a three year Randomized Controlled Trial of the LEAP/PSL program, in regard to MTM and now Hilltop supported schools. We write this analysis from a perspective of recognizing the successes and challenges of our predecessor MTM, and seeking to improve, change, and drive a holistic and sustainable quality education model for our children in Liberia.