|
 Joy Kayode wants to be a doctor when she grows up. Or maybe a dentist. Perhaps even a police officer – she’s not quite sure yet. Whatever path she chooses, one thing is certain: the 7-year-old second grader has big dreams. And thanks to the quality education she receives, those dreams are a very real possibility.
Joy and her 9-year-old sister, Precious, are daughters of Nigerian immigrants. They are students at St. Richard School in Omaha – a private, parochial school with a predominantly African-American student population. The school is supported by funding from private donors and organizations, including the Mutual of Omaha Foundation, that makes it possible for students like Joy and Precious to attend.
“They told us to pay what we can because people have provided funding,” said Olatayo Kayode, the girls’ father. Olatayo came to the United States nearly 26 years ago to receive an education. However, it was only eight years ago that his wife, Mercy, was able to join him so that the family could be together.
The Kayodes have been very pleased with the education their daughters have received at St. Richard. The girls learn not only about subjects such as math and science, but they also learn important life lessons.
“They teach the kids about God and how to respect your fellow man and be hardworking,” Olatayo said. “We teach them the same thing at home, but when it is echoed at school, it makes all the difference.”
Learn more about the Mutual of Omaha Foundation’s focus on education.
|
