Two teachers must go,” was all Valrey Francis, Ph.D., principal, could think about. Effects of the COVID-19 pandemic had shaken many Christian schools, and William A. Kirlew Junior Academy (WAKJA) was no exception. Moving from operating with single- grade classrooms to managing multi-grade levels put a significant strain on teachers. Yet, through it all, educators remained committed to their mission — teaching God’s children and praying for a brighter future.
Francis became principal three years ago while fully believing that “WAKJA was God’s school, her school, our school.” She opened every staff meeting, program, and parent-teacher conference with unwavering faith and prayer. “I will pray, and God will give us the numbers we need by the deadline,” said Francis.
Francis began praying fervently, trusting in God’s ability to work miracles, and God did not disappoint. A few days later, she received a phone call from a closing Christian school seeking a place to send students. Within days, new families began visiting the school and enrolling children. The enrollment numbers surged from approximately 80 students to more than 120.
WAKJA suddenly needed three more teachers to keep up with the growing enrollment. “It was nearly impossible to find qualified teachers during a nationwide shortage,” said Francis, but she knew all things are possible with God.
Within three months, three new teachers were sent to WAKJA. The school was able to return to single-grade classrooms, an impossible dream just months before.
For teachers at WAKJA, it was a testament to God’s faithfulness and the power of steadfast belief. “As a teacher, I never imagined we would get back to single- grade classrooms,” one of the teachers shared, “but God made a way.”
Francis’ leadership was a constant reminder of the power of prayer, perseverance, and faith in God’s provision. It wasn’t just a year of growth in enrollment — it was a year of witnessing the miraculous. Francis never doubted God would provide for His school, and the results spoke for themselves.
WAKJA is not just a place of learning; it is a living testimony to the incredible way God works when His people trust in Him. Francis’ leadership, unwavering faith, and dedication to God’s mission helped transform a seemingly impossible situation into a season of miracles.
Florida | June 2025
Comments are closed.