Schools in Haiti
What schools are like in Haiti today — from the classroom to the community
About Haiti - Schools
Schools in Haiti come in all shapes and sizes — from simple classrooms with dirt floors to city buildings with hundreds of students. But across the country, one thing stays the same: education matters deeply to families.
What are schools like in Haiti?
Haitian schools range from small community classrooms to larger institutions in cities like Port-au-Prince — but many still face challenges with space, safety, and supplies.
Some schools have sturdy buildings and desks, while others use makeshift spaces like churches or outdoor shelters
Class sizes are often large, especially in cities — 40 to 60 students per class is common
Most lessons are taught in French, though students often speak Haitian Creole at home
Some schools have electricity and clean water, but many rural schools do not
Despite these challenges, children across Haiti are eager to learn — and many walk long distances just to get to class.
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What are Haitian classrooms like?
Classrooms in Haiti can look very different depending on where you are — but many share the same challenges.
Overcrowding is common, especially in urban schools
Some classrooms have proper desks and blackboards, while others use benches, chalk walls, or outdoor setups
Many classrooms get hot during the day, especially if they lack fans or windows
Supplies are often limited — teachers may have just a chalkboard and a few textbooks to work with
Lessons are usually in French, which can be hard for younger students who speak only Creole at home
In some rural areas, classrooms are made of wood, tin, or concrete blocks, with no electricity or running water. Yet, many students stay focused and hopeful, showing remarkable resilience.
What kinds of schools exist in Haiti?
Haiti’s school system includes several levels, similar to other countries — but access and quality can vary a lot.
The main types of schools are:
Primary schools: For children aged 6 to 11. This is where most children begin their education.
Secondary schools: For ages 12 to 18. These are often harder to access, especially in rural areas.
Vocational schools: Offer training in trades like construction, agriculture, or mechanics.
Special schools: A small number serve students with disabilities, but access is limited.
Most schools are privately run (about 80%), and only about 20% are public/government-funded. Many schools are operated by charities, churches, and local organisations trying to fill the gap.
“Only around 25% of children complete secondary school, and many never get the chance to attend one at all.”
Schools in Port-au-Prince
In Port-au-Prince (the capital):
There are more schools, especially private and religious ones
Some schools have better buildings, larger staff, and more resources
But overcrowding is a big issue — with classrooms of 60+ students
Recent years have seen school closures due to violence and insecurity
“Many schools in Port-au-Prince were forced to close temporarily in 2023 due to gang activity and unrest.”
Schools in Rural Areas
Schools are fewer and farther apart — students often walk long distances
Many buildings lack electricity, toilets, or clean water
Teachers may have limited training and very few materials
Families often can’t afford school fees, books, or uniforms
Despite these differences, students in both urban and rural areas face real challenges — and show real determination to learn.
Are there American schools in Haiti?
Yes — there are a small number of American and international schools in Haiti, mostly located in or near Port-au-Prince.
These schools typically:
Teach in English, using American or international curriculums
Serve children of diplomats, expats, and wealthier Haitian families
Offer smaller class sizes and more resources compared to most local schools
Charge high tuition fees, making them inaccessible for most Haitians
Examples include:
Union School (Port-au-Prince) – an accredited American international school
Quisqueya Christian School – offers a U.S.-based curriculum with Christian values
While these schools provide high-quality education, they serve only a small portion of the population and do not reflect the experience of most Haitian students.
How are schools built and supported in Haiti?
Many schools in Haiti are built and maintained by local communities, churches, and nonprofit organisations. Government funding is limited, so NGOs and international partners play a major role.
Common ways schools are supported:
NGOs build or repair school buildings damaged by earthquakes or storms
Donations provide school supplies, uniforms, and furniture
Solar panels or water tanks are sometimes installed in rural schools
Training programmes help teachers improve their skills
Community involvement keeps schools running in hard-to-reach areas
Greater Good Haiti works directly with local schools to improve access, safety, and quality of education in rural communities.
Even basic improvements — like building a toilet or adding a roof — can make a big difference for students and teachers.
School Safety and Stability in Haiti
In recent years, school safety has become a major concern — especially in urban areas like Port-au-Prince.
Many schools have been damaged by natural disasters, including earthquakes and hurricanes
Extreme weather often interrupts the school year
In some areas, gang violence and unrest have forced schools to close for weeks or even months
These disruptions also affect children’s mental health and wellbeing
Despite these challenges, communities are working hard to make schools safe and stable again. Organisations like UNICEF, Education Cannot Wait, and local charities are helping to rebuild schools, train staff, and support trauma recovery.
“In 2023, over 500,000 children were out of school due to insecurity and school closures across the country.”
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