Meet Kevin

August 31st, 2024

Written by Nathan

Meet Kevin.

Yesterday evening, Amanda Wiebe (head teacher and former school director of Oaks of Righteousness School) and myself went to figure out the bus route and meet all of our students.

Kevin is 11 years old and has never been to school. In fact, in the past he has had no interest in school and has even refused to attend... even though his sister attends Oaks of Righteousness School. Now this is not uncommon that the Tarahumara don't go to school, most don't go and most don't ever have the opportunity either.

Kevin was shy at first when we stopped at their house, probably expecting that just his sister would be attending school and he wouldn't as usual... but after saying Hola to him and giving him a high five and fist bump, he started to warm up a bit.

Amanda talked some more with the family and at one point I asked her to tell Kevin (in Spanish) that he should come to school. Through translation, I told him if he came we could play some games together, that I could teach him how to play some sports and teach him the rules.

Amanda asked again if he would come to school, expecting a no as usual, but to her surprise, Kevin responded with a yes! Yes, he did want to come to school!

My heart skipped a beat. I was, and still am so excited about this. Yes, our school is full. No we don't really have the space for another student... but I believe that God brought this opportunity for me to meet Kevin and his family and be an encouragement to him. I hope and pray that Kevin will come to school. I pray that myself and the rest of the staff at Oaks of Righteousness can build a strong relationship with him, and his family. It is my hope and prayer that we can plant seeds and share the good news of the gospel with all of our students at Oaks of Righteousness, including Kevin.

That's just a little snippet of yesterday evening. We spent just over 3 hours of driving around, meeting the students and their families who are attending our school... and every minute of the drive was worth it.

Below are picture of some of the other stops/sites along the bus route, including some of the homes where our students live:

I am excited to see all of the students next week but there is a special excitement to see Kevin!

Please keep Kevin in your thoughts and prayers. I really hope he follows through and attends school this year.

Please pray for me as well, as I do my best to support and lead the staff, students, families... etc.

Nathan Friesen

Director/Principal

Oaks of Righteousness School