January was a busy month for our online school. We reopened on January 5th after the December break, and I'm excited to share what happened.
The Good News: Plus ➕
More Learners Joined Us
Six new students joined our classes—five ladies and one man. What makes me proud is that they're not all from Nairobi. We now have learners from Kitale and Nakuru! This shows our school is growing.
Why did they choose us? Because online classes work better for busy people—those who work, need flexibility, or live far from the city.
Learning Became More Interactive
I noticed students getting distracted easily, so I changed my approach. Instead of just lecturing, I gave them topics to research and present.
For example:
- In Biology, students researched different parts of the circulatory system and shared what they learned
- In Functional Writing, everyone got a topic like memos, CVs, or formal letters to present
The result? Students were more engaged and actually enjoyed learning.
We Covered A Lot
January was productive. We covered topics in History, CRE, Biology, Kiswahili, English, Physics, Chemistry, and Business Studies. From the baptism of Jesus to the pH scale, from blood groups to business basics—we tackled it all.
Other Wins
- Students were consistent with attendance
- John bought all his set books
- I published three blog posts every week
- Teacher Eric helped with physical classes
- We started a fundraiser on M-Changa
What Didn't Go Well: Minus ➖
Let's be honest—not everything was perfect.
- Most students hadn't paid fees by the month-end
- Power cuts disrupted classes for three days
- I did everything alone, which was exhausting
- Sometimes I fell back into just lecturing
- We had no clear timetable
- No tests were given to check if students were actually learning
What's Changing in February: Next ⏭️
I've learned my lessons. Here's what I'm doing differently:
1. Creating a Timetable
No more random lessons. I'm making a clear weekly and monthly schedule. Students will know what's coming and can prepare.
2. Regular Tests
Weekly quizzes and a monthly exam. This will help me know if teaching is working.
3. Students Lead the Learning
My new goal: 75% student-led learning (research, discussions, presentations) and only 25% teacher talk.
4. Better Fee Collection
Ombasa is taking over finances. We're testing SasaPay to keep school money separate from personal funds.
5. Sharing the Work
I can't do everything alone. Ombasa handles systems and finances. Eric helps with teaching and finding creative ways to explain topics.
6. Backup Plans
If power goes out, we'll use mobile data or find another location. No more missed classes.
7. Using AI Smartly
AI helps me prepare notes, create diagrams, design tests, and make learning materials faster.
8. Making Learning Fun
I'm trying Kahoot and other games to make classes enjoyable, not just educational.
9. Stronger Marketing
Digital posters with QR codes, Facebook and TikTok ads, and more word-of-mouth. Teachers who bring new students get 75% of the first payment.
10. Lab Visits
I'm arranging practical sessions at Garden Estate School so students can do hands-on science experiments.
Moving Forward
Building a school is hard work, but seeing students grow makes it worth it. February will be better because we're learning from January's mistakes.
If you're interested in joining our classes or supporting our fundraiser, reach out. We're growing something special here.
Published: February 2026