Selina’s Journey to Educational Excellence
"When I attended what I thought would be a routine offboarding session, I never imagined I would leave as one of the most recognized school leaders in my region." recalls Selina, Director of HopeStar Eldo Junior School in Kenya, reflecting on the unexpected moment she was named the best school director in her county.
Selina, founder and director of HopeStar Eldo Junior School, transformed a modest school of about 300 learners into a thriving institution serving more than 550 learners after participating in a three-year school leadership and management program supported by Opportunity International EduFinance. Through practical training, coaching, and access to financing, Selinah improved school infrastructure, strengthened management practices, expanded facilities, and enhanced learning conditions. These achievements culminated in her recognition as the best school director in her county.
What began as a dream fueled by 8 years of teaching experience evolved into a remarkable success story marked by resilience, innovation, and community impact.
Selina started her school in 2013 with limited knowledge of how to build and manage a sustainable educational institution, facing slow growth and numerous operational challenges.
"The turning point came when I joined a 3-year training program supported by Opportunity International and facilitated by the Education Specialist, Mr. Philip. The program introduced me to practical school management tools and encouraged me to view my school not only as a business, but also as a service to the community." Selina said.
Determined to apply the lessons learned, Selina implemented a series of changes to improve the school's image and learning environment. She branded the school's entrance, introduced branded uniforms, and improved the appearance of the compound. These initiatives strengthened pride and ownership among parents, teachers, and learners.
With support from the Education Specialist assigned to her school, she also developed a school improvement plan focused on learner safety and educational quality. At the time, classrooms were in poor condition, teaching materials were inadequate, and sanitation facilities were limited.
"I introduced whiteboards, improved classrooms, separated toilet facilities for boys and girls, added a bathroom for girls, and put in place a sanitary waste disposal system to support girls' dignity and attendance," Selina said, adding that investing in a fire extinguisher later proved critical when the school successfully responded to a fire incident.
The improvements contributed to significant growth in enrollment, with learners'
numbers rising from approximately 300 to more than 550 within 3 years. According to Selinah, stronger management systems, enhanced facilities, and increased parent confidence played a key role in the school's expansion.
The programme also enabled her to access financing through Faulu Bank. Selina secured a KES 1.5 million loan to purchase land for a second school branch and later obtained an additional KES 300,000 to improve the school further.
"I used these funds to make the school compound safer and more accessible during the rainy season, improve the school's appearance, expand classrooms, and add play equipment for learners," she explained. "I made sure that every expenditure was documented and used carefully."
Beyond physical infrastructure, Selinah said the training transformed her leadership approach. She now prioritizes timely payment of teacher salaries, a practice she credits with improving staff morale and retention. Teachers also benefited from professional development opportunities through the Teacher Mentorship Professional Development (TMPD) programme, which strengthened classroom instruction and learning outcomes.
"Today, I am not only a school founder but also an award-winning leader whose school is growing, improving, and serving more families," Selinah said. "My experience shows what can happen when committed school leaders receive practical training, coaching, and access to finance."
Selina’s growth journey demonstrates how targeted support, effective leadership training, and strategic investment can empower school leaders to create lasting educational impact in their communities.
