Dear Friends of Happy Hands,
Our word for this school year is Trust. Over the past several months, that word has taken on a very personal meaning for me. After much prayer and careful consideration, I shared with our Board of Directors in June my intention to retire as Executive Director of Happy Hands Education Center, effective June 30, 2027.
This was not an easy decision. Happy Hands has been such a significant part of my life, and I care deeply about its future. But I believe God has been leading me toward this next chapter. I look forward to spending more time with my grandchildren, traveling with my husband, and enjoying a slower season of life. I also hope to remain available to support Happy Hands and Deaf Christian Academy during the transition.
One of the things that gives me peace about this decision is the time we have to prepare. I have encouraged the Board to begin the search for our next Executive Director as soon as possible so that this transition can be handled thoughtfully and with care. I have also recommended creating a Principal position for Deaf Christian Academy as the school continues to grow and prepare for the opportunities ahead.
There is much to do in the coming months, but most importantly, there is much to pray over. I would be grateful if you would join me in praying that God clearly leads every decision and brings the right people to lead Happy Hands and DCA into the next chapter.
For more than three decades, I have had the privilege of seeing God's faithfulness to this ministry. Happy Hands has grown because so many people have chosen to invest their time, talents, prayers, and resources in children who are Deaf or hard of hearing and their families. I am deeply grateful for every person who has been part of that story.
My retirement is still nearly a year away, and I remain fully committed to leading Happy Hands through June 30, 2027. There will be plenty of time to celebrate, reflect, and share more about the transition. For now, I simply wanted you, our donors and friends, to hear this news directly from me.
Thank you for believing in this ministry and for helping us empower children who are Deaf or hard of hearing to flourish in school and in life. I am grateful for your friendship and support, and I am trusting God with great hope for all that is ahead.
With gratitude,
Jan Pride
Executive Director and Head of School
