2023-24 Annual Report
Over the years, the Hilltop Schools Inc. team has worked tirelessly to ensure that our students continue their education despite numerous challenges like the MTMA Saga and the Covid-19 outbreak. These events have significantly reduced our funding, leading us to cut back on extracurricular activities and consolidate management roles to maintain a lean budget while still providing impactful programs. Our commitment to delivering quality education and a safe, nurturing environment for social growth remains unwavering. The school doors stayed open, and the girls continued to learn in a happy and secure setting.
On behalf of the girls, their families, and all the administrators and staff at Hilltop and the Academy, we extend our heartfelt thanks. You may find a copy of our 2023/2024 Annual Report here.
MTMA continues to be among the best schools in Liberia, especially for girls from any Liberian community, including slum areas and families with low-income potentials. We have maintained this remarkable institution with its influential programs and quality education, transforming the lives of the girls and their families. Our girls have opportunities to participate in events and educational activities like debates, spelling bees, STEM programs, and digital learning activities. Last year, our girls completed training at the US Embassy to become mentors which aligns with our objective of fostering change through training young women.
This year, More Than Me Academy will celebrate the graduation of its inaugural class of 12th graders and the advancement of the kindergarten class's first graduation. This milestone marks a special occasion for all of us, and we wish you could join us in this celebration in August 2025. The Pioneer Class consists of 21 girls who have attended this school from lower elementary through the 12th grade. Among these 21, nine are top achievers, with three leading academically: Morrislyn Jaffan, Abigail Doe, and Janeba Bass. Morrislyn holds the top spot. All 21 ladies are ready to graduate with diplomas from More Than Me Academy, marking the beginning of a tradition with many more to follow.
IIn our scholarship program, six scholars, along with five Great Mind Girls, are in college and doing well. Academic reports show they completed another academic year, with four making the honor roll. Seven of the scholars’ volunteer at the Academy, setting an exemplary standard for both students and teachers. They actively contribute to the school's event planning, speak at various functions, and represent Hilltop within the community.
For sustainability, we have set three goals:
1. Obtain a formal agreement from the Liberian government to complement our donors' contributions;
2. Initiate a livelihood program through Aquaponic to raise funds and continue writing grants to augment funding for programs. We are working tirelessly on these activities.
In summary, the Academy concluded the 2023/24 academic year on July 15th and reopened for 12th graders on September 20th, and for other students on October 6th, 2024.
We will continue our signature programs in the 2024/2025 school year, including psychosocial support, basic healthcare, nutrition, and extracurricular activities.
Once again, we are truly grateful for your contributions and seek your ongoing support as we persist in this noble endeavor on behalf of girls and humanity.
Sylvestine Payne-Gbessagee
Executive Director, Hilltop Schools Inc.