In the Heart of Kalbaskraal, Where Rocks Speak Louder than Words, We Celebrate the Unsung Heroes of OJ Erasmus School
In a world where the dialogue is dominated by phrases like “entitlement,” “safe spaces,” “verbal abuse,” and “tropes,” there exists a sanctuary named OJ Erasmus School in Kalbaskraal. This humble institution houses around 350 eager learners and is staffed by a dedicated team of ten trailblazers. Picture this: a village devoid of safe spaces, where the harsh realities include rocks, stones, punches, and knives, and where verbal abuse seems to be the only spoken language.
Kalbaskraal, a village worn down by socio-economic challenges and sheer exhaustion, struggles to provide the support that most schools receive. The Department of Education’s backing is scarce, yet within this challenging landscape, there are ten tenacious titans at OJ Erasmus School.
These ten remarkable individuals are not just tasked with delivering the school curriculum; they are entrusted with shaping the nature, personality, and character of the young minds in their care. They serve as counselors to children who may go without food or lack the presence of parents and family at home. In rare instances of familial support, these champions aid in homework and the overall development of the child.
Many of these young schoolgoers, who have had to fend for themselves before even entering school, are met by a group of ten champions standing tall, unsupported, yet resolute in keeping the future open for them. How do they do this, without support one may ask, they do it with an unwavering, sacrificial support of each other, lead by a Captain who goes by the name of JP, that is not only the full-time Principal, but also a full-time grade 6 teacher. The Captain in turn and the whole school is supported by a remarkable administrator like Charles Atlas, carries the world that is OJ Erasmus Primary on her shoulders.
Last Friday, No-Stone had the privilege of extending support to these tenacious titans of OJ Erasmus School. A special setup at No-Stone House unfolded. Under the gazebo, Jo-Anne, our angelic force (highly recommended for every NGO), prepared a delightful three-course meal for the champions. Heike, Jo, and Sian (Heike and Sian, two more highly recommended Angels for every NGO), orchestrated a setting that could rival any, while our three dependable men, Mannetjies, Going, and Mark, ensured the champions were served with utmost care. A three course meal was served with multiple meats and juices and accoutrement.
It was evident that this group had never experienced such pampering before, which stirred a mix of emotions in me. The realization that these life molders, future creators, big brothers/sisters, and friends had never truly been acknowledged for their worth fueled a quiet rage within.
Heike shared her surprise at successfully advocating for her company’s support to the school. Mark, on the other hand, conveyed No-Stone’s desire to collaborate with the school and teachers. The essence of the message was clear: let the teachers teach, and let No-Stone, whenever possible, support and facilitate their noble task.
Looking ahead, exciting plans are in store for the Klein Skool, including the development of an Early Childhood Development (ECD) center to benefit OJ Erasmus Grade 1 students in the upcoming years.
This is a heartfelt shoutout to the Tenacious Ten—individuals who know no limits, sacrifice regularly, fight for the children, weep at the horrors faced by young souls, and consistently go above and beyond their call of duty. A salute to these remarkable people and their families, without whom their impactful work wouldn’t be possible. This is also a call to action for the community of Kalbaskraal to rally behind them—encourage parents to attend meetings, stand at the gate when the gatekeeper is unavailable—because, in the end, all they need are people.
The Ten Tenacious Titans at OJ Erasmus
JP Goodman , Norten Strydom, Leanne Berling, Antoinette Ceasar, Bridgette Cain, Azille Engelbrecht, Analet Jans van Rensburg, Ane Steyl, Pedro Berling along with Mrs Koekoemoer the Administrator.