In Haiti, graduating high school doesn’t happen at the end of 12th grade.
There’s one more step.
It’s called Philo—short for “Philosophy”—and it represents the final, critical year of a student’s education journey.
More Than a Senior Year
Students in Haiti progress through school much like in the U.S., moving grade by grade until they reach what would be considered their senior year. But instead of graduating at that point, they must continue on to 13th grade: Philo.
This year is not just an extension—it’s a culmination.
Philo is a time of intense preparation, where students review, refine, and master everything they’ve learned. The curriculum often includes advanced studies in subjects like philosophy, writing, and critical thinking, alongside continued focus in core academic areas.
But more than anything, Philo is about one goal:
preparing for the national exams.
One Year That Determines Everything
At the end of Philo, students must take a series of national exams administered by Haiti’s education system.
These exams are not optional.
They are not flexible.
And they are not easy.
In fact, passing these exams is what determines whether a student officially graduates high school.
Years of education—every lesson, every test, every late night of studying—lead up to this one moment.
If a student does not pass, they do not receive their diploma and without a diploma they cannot move onto University.
It’s a high-stakes system that places immense pressure on students across the country.
A Different Story at Teach Haiti
This is where Teach Haiti stands apart.
Through our Complete Education Model, students are not just taught to memorize information—they are equipped to understand, apply, and lead. From early childhood through Philo, each year is intentionally designed to build a strong academic and spiritual foundation.
And the results speak for themselves:
Teach Haiti has a 100% graduation rate in Philo—a milestone that is nearly unheard of in Haiti, where exam pass rates are often inconsistent and low.
Even more, our 9th-grade students consistently achieve an exceptional 94% pass rate on state exams in the first round rising to nearly 100% pass rate after the second round, reflecting both strong academic preparation and sustained support throughout their learning journey.
But it’s not by chance.
It’s the result of:
- Intentional, year-by-year development
- Qualified and committed teachers
- A holistic model that supports the whole child—academically, spiritually, and emotionally
- A long-term vision that refuses to cut corners
Raising Up the reGeneration
Philo is more than a final year. It’s a launching point.
It’s where students step forward not only as graduates, but as young leaders equipped with the knowledge, character, and faith to shape their future.
At Teach Haiti, this moment represents something bigger than individual success.
It’s the fulfillment of a vision:
empowered students, prepared to restore their nation.
Because when a student walks across that finish line—having passed their exams and earned their diploma—it’s not just the end of their education.
It’s the beginning of impact.
Sponsor A Student Today and Give Them the Gift of Reaching Philo!