Beau-Roc's surroundings are stony and barren, with only a parcel of fertile land. Nevertheless, some inhabitants manage to eke out a subsistence living. Women run almost half of the homes in Beau-Roc. To alleviate the hunger pangs that prevent learning and to encourage parents to enrol their children, school meals are provided by the World Food Programme. Emile's pupils must bring a log of wood to school every day for fuel.
Deforestation is a major problem in Haiti.
Her efforts are bearing fruit to judge by the regular improvements to the school. Recent political instability has meant that the country has not invested in education in ten years. Enrolment is a mere 44 per cent and a little less than a half of those entering primary school finish it. Less than a third of these go on to secondary school. Emile works constantly to improve her pupils' environment.