We have been requested to take into our school a few above-average-intelligence blind pupils who would benefit by being integrated into a class of sighted children. After much consideration we have agreed to this proposal and it is suggested we start in 1986 with 2 or 3 Form 1 (1st year) pupils and to increase up to 10 pupils in four years. The Government has promised to supply and pay for a teacher who will act as an “interpreter” between the ordinary teachers and the blind children but will not teach them separately. The Council for the Blind will provide the text books in Braille and the equipment (typewriters and cassette recorders) needed.
Our main need is for friends who would be willing to sponsor a child while at our school as it is expected these will come from poor homes unable to support a child at a private boarding school. Each pupil will be with us for four years. At present rates, the cost for a year will be about $300 (£150-£200), for boarding fees plus about $100 (£50) for uniform, stationery and other necessities.
We are therefore asking for sponsors either personally or in groups who would be willing to agree to support a child for a year or more. We are quite prepared to give more details of individual pupils once we know them and to give to those involved an exact account of how any money is spent. Smaller gifts to help directly with this project are welcome and we also request that any money for this be sent to the school and not just be included in Mission Collections which go to a variety of needs.
We hope that those who choose to become involved in this project will also find a place in their prayers for those needy boys and girls and also for the work here in general.
(Miss) Marion M. Graham,
Headmistress.