Today’s academic clinic at our KCE I boarding school was more than a scheduled parent-teacher meeting. It was a powerful sign of change.
In many communities across rural Kenya, families have not historically been inclined to take an active role in their daughters’ education. For generations, girls’ schooling has often been disrupted by poverty, early marriage, and the heavy load of responsibilities at home. These challenges are reinforced by social norms that have long suggested that girls are less valuable to society and that their education is less important.
In communities that believe a woman’s only role in society is in the home as a wife and mother, investing limited household resources in her schooling didn’t feel necessary. To some, it was unthinkable. When choices had to be made, boys’ education was prioritized because people believed that they would go on to become the only breadwinners. In contrast, educating girls was seen as a way to socialize them for marriage, rather than an investment in their future. Many girls attended class only to be asked to sweep the floors or leave to fetch water for male classmates and teachers. As a result, in the communities we serve, only 58% of girls complete primary school, and fewer than one in four graduate from high school.
That’s why our academic clinic today was so powerful: it shows how dramatically attitudes and opportunities for girls have changed.
Throughout the day, parents, guardians, and family members sat with teachers in thoughtful, one-on-one conversations focused on academic progress, personal development, and future aspirations. These sessions created an important space not only to review performance, but to celebrate growth, address challenges, and deepen the important connection between home and school that shapes each student’s journey.
“Seeing how deeply the teachers understand my child gives me confidence,” said parent Ann Naeku. “They don’t just talk about grades — they talk about her character, her strengths, and her potential. This isn’t just a school; it’s a partnership.”
Across classrooms and meeting spaces, similar sentiments echoed.
Parents gained new insight into their daughter’s learning. Teachers offered honest feedback, practical guidance, and reassurance that every girl’s success is being carefully nurtured.
“I truly value the openness of these conversations,” shared another parent, John Ole Kantai. “We were able to speak honestly about strengths and areas for improvement. It’s motivating to know that the school walks closely with our children. As parents, it reminds us that our involvement matters every single day.”
Moments like these strengthen the bridge between home and school, ensuring that every girl benefits from a consistent, united circle of guidance and support.
At Kakenya’s Dream, events like today’s academic clinic are more than meetings, they are part of the culture we are building, one that supports every girl and shifts how the community sees her worth and potential.
