Served at ESD:
July 2006 – July 2012

Sent to ESD by:
Glendora Friends Church of Glendora California

How Jen Came to ESD

Jennifer Johnson visited a friend working at E.S.D. in 2006. After visiting for a month, Jen left, sure that she would not be returning any time soon. In a matter of weeks, God changed her heart and Jen applied to work at E.S.D. as a teacher.

Jen had not complete the degree necessary for her to obtain her certification as a teacher in Puerto Rico so returned to that task quickly finishing off the required work for an Associate’s degree and occupying a classroom at ESD. She is completing her work towards a Bachelor’s degree and is contemplating her next step in academia from her classroom in Luquillo.

Jim O’Brien, ESD’s California-located maintenance man, accompanied the team of college girls what came with Jen on her first visit. Since that time, Jim, a retired San Dimas police officer, has continued to visit the school at irregular intervals working along with teams to coordinate the efforts to keep the buildings and grounds in good shape.

Adriana finished her time of study at ESD in May 2009 and then returned to work with us as a multi-purpose helper in August 2009. Adriana performs many vital jobs around the school and we are thankful for her hard work as she helps us.The 2009 – 2010 school year saw Adriana trying out a number of jobs around the school. During the 2010-2011 school year Adriana worked as Betsy’s in-class assistant and our kitchen supervisor. She continued into the 2011-2012 school year as our kitchen supervisor but due to health problems has been unable to return to work in a part-time capacity. Adriana continues to visit and help out at the school as she is able.

Serving with ESD from July 2011 to December 2011
Was sent by Rose Drive Friends Church, Yorba Linda, California.

As the only guy on staff , everyone was thankful
for Chris’ abilities in areas where the lady staffers lack ability –
chainsawing and tree climbing are two such areas of his expertise that came in handy after Tropical Storm/Hurricane Irene!

Read Chris’ blog!

How Chris came to ESD:

Chris learned of ESD through his membership in the Friends’ church. Nicole Bravo (ESD 2004 – 2006) and Jen Johnson (ESD 2006 – 2012) were also from the Friends’ church association.

“Let us not become weary in doing good for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” Galatians 6:9

The little kids in the morning are always a joy. They love the little things in life… Being able to use colored pens to write the ABC’s instead of a pencil brings them such delight. They are so enthusiastic, and are so much fun to be with. Making lunches has also been great. Learning how to cook for a crowd, and trying to blend my American cooking with the Puerto Rican food the students are used to. If Kevin eats it, I’ve succeeded! Hanging out with the dorm kids at night has been a blast. It is so fun to just sit around and talk to James and Adriana about life.They are like brother and sister, and there is never a dull moment. Thank you for all of your prayers! Christina Skahen (2008-09 school year)

Jilissa Iler became an ESD junior missionary beginning in July 2007.

She came from Cortland NY as a member of Peruville New Testament Church. In her second year as junior missionary, Jilissa worked as a tutor to the older students in the mornings. Evenings found Jilissa with residential students Adriana and James as she helped with homework and dorm activities.

Jilissa Iler (ESD 2007-2009)

May 2009 – Jilissa’s closing statement:

As I reflect on the past school year and what God has taught me, I guess the thing I’ve learned is that it’s worth obeying what He tells you to do. It was hard for me to come back for a second school year but God has shown Himself again to be trustworthy.

The importance of mending and developing relationships has also been proven to me. The two years God has given me here are gifts. I learned or rather was reminded of how important it is not to waste the times God gives and the people He puts in our lives. Even if some of them are difficult, they are there to teach something God wants for you to learn.

I hope that I have been able to learn what He wanted for me here and was able to serve. I know that He has used my experiences here at E.S.D. for good in my life. I will always remember this place and its people. I want to continue to trust, to serve, and to live out my faith and love for God after I leave here and until I go to be with Him.