We are not after the good kids, or kids with learning disabilities or behavior problems, explains Willis. We re after kids with spiritual problems. Many private schools struggle to make ends meet, but Hope s difficulties are exacerbated because it welcomes low-income students. In addition, Hope Christian will soon outgrow its facilities and desperately needs a new place. In addition to funding difficulties, exhaustion plagues the Hope staff.
Teachers constantly feel the strain of the spiritual battle they are fighting.
The students demand constant attention, and crises often erupt. But despite the difficult circumstances, Hope Christian has already experienced its share of victories. One female student entered Hope, but had to be expelled for behavior problems. Later, she was readmitted and started making real progress. This young woman who was once angry and disrespectful turned a corner to become a gentle, sweet Christian woman, said Willis.