Last month, Danielle, a teacher with Mustard Seed International in Indonesia, traveled from Java to Sumba with her small team of three young women: Emma, Lucy, and Verity. Their destination was Sumba School, where Danielle has been developing a new music program that is already beginning to transform classrooms. This trip was an opportunity for her to continue expanding the program and train local teachers in music education, while her teammates connected with students through English and Bible lessons.
The journey from Java to Sumba was long, with connecting flights, delays, and tropical heat, but the moment they stepped onto the island, their purpose was clear. Danielle spent several full days in the classrooms, observing and teaching music from preschool through Grade 7. Alongside local teachers, she introduced new rhythms, piano exercises, and lesson plans. As students learned to read music and play simple instruments, Danielle saw their confidence grow and encouraged the teachers as they developed their own skills and creativity.
(Scroll to the bottom of this page to see more photos and videos from Danielle and the team’s trip.)
While Danielle focused on the music program, Emma, Lucy, and Verity led English and Bible lessons, exploring topics like occupations, dreams for the future, and what it means to live a life for Jesus. Their lessons gave students opportunities to think deeply, express themselves in new ways, and experience learning that connected both heart and mind.
The team also joined the students in a lively parade through the village. This parade was a wonderful opportunity to see other schools’ music programs on the island and to envision how the program Danielle is developing at Sumba School can stand out and build upon what students are already learning.
Today, the music program at Sumba School is giving students a creative outlet to express themselves while fostering discipline, teamwork, and worship. Teachers are discovering new ways to integrate music into daily lessons, and the sound of joyful singing now fills the school halls.
"I was most excited to be at school all day Monday and Tuesday," Danielle shared. "My schedule included going to every music class, preschool through Grade 7, to observe and to help teach. It was so encouraging watching local teachers teach students and seeing not only the kids understand but also the local teachers! They have some of the cutest, most welcoming students who were so excited for me and my friends to be there."
During their stay, the team also connected with the leaders of Sumba School and spent time with several former students who now teach there. Witnessing these young leaders guide their classrooms with confidence and care deeply inspired the team and reinforced the long-term vision of raising up local leadership.
Outside the classroom, Danielle and her team enjoyed moments of fellowship, playing with the children, watching the island’s breathtaking sunsets, and soaking in the warmth of Sumba’s community life.
As Danielle continues to develop the music program and mentor teachers, we invite you to pray for her and for the growing team in Sumba. Pray for the local leaders and teachers as they carry this vision forward. Ask God to fill young hearts with creativity, confidence, and the joy of knowing Christ through music.
Your prayers and support make it possible to bring opportunities like music education to children across Indonesia. Together, we can continue teaching hope through music.
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