MISD EDUCATORS AND COMMUNITY MEMBERS EMBARK ON SUMMER MISSION TRIP TO KENYA
As the final school bell rings each May, most teachers look forward to summer as a time of rest and recharge. But for a group of current and former Mansfield ISD educators, this summer promises to be anything but ordinary.
Instead of relaxing poolside or traveling for leisure, eight women— including several MISD teachers and former educators— are preparing for a life-changing mission trip working alongside Naomi’ s Village to support local teachers and a community in Kenya. From June 17 to June 30, they will dedicate their time and talents to serving students and teachers at Cornerstone Preparatory Academy through an initiative that underscores the powerful impact educators can have well beyond the walls of their classrooms. exchange teaching strategies, and offer resources that can empower local teachers for years to come.
While the trip is funded through personal donations and support from the community, participants emphasize their story is not about fundraising— it’ s about highlighting the heart of service that drives so many educators. They’ ve committed their summer to a cause far from home, motivated by a shared desire to make a difference where it’ s needed most.
Naomi’ s Village, located in the Great Rift Valley, is a beacon of hope for children in Kenya. Founded on the belief that love and education can transform lives, the organization serves children from birth through high school and provides a holistic approach to development.
Leading the team is Lisa Watson, a former MISD educator who now resides in Florida. Accompanying her are Sarah Grob, an elementary art teacher at Janet Brockett Elementary, Kelly Tittsworth, Cindy Bridges, Janie Pizzini, Becke Smith, Kelly Body, and a community member known affectionately as“ Rizzo.” Many team members have personal connections to MISD, either as current staff or as parents and grandparents of former students.
The mission is centered on providing professional development for Kenyan educators, facilitating interactive lessons for students, and addressing basic community needs. Team members hope to build relationships,
As the team continues to prepare, they’ re also asking for the community’ s support— not just financially, but spiritually and emotionally. Prayers for safety, strength, and impact are welcome as they embark on what they hope will be a transformative journey for all involved.
For more information about the mission, interested individuals can contact Lisa Watson at liswatson @ gmail. com.
This story reminds us of the unifying power of education, compassion, and the willingness to serve— even when the school year ends.
22 MANSFIELDTODAY