Recognizing our students’ dedication and progress

Last month, the children in our Homeschool Program completed their second unit of the school year. In Guatemala, the school year runs from January to October and is divided into four units.

School is about more than academics. Throughout the year, the children take part in activities that bring learning to life, including a Science Fair, a market project, and lessons about Guatemala’s Independence Day. Finishing this unit was an important milestone, especially after the challenges many of our children faced earlier in the year.

During the first unit, several children struggled with anxiety, frustration, and the pressure of exams. Carol, our Educational Program Coordinator, recognized those challenges and worked closely with them to provide the support they needed.

Drawing from her years of experience, Carol adapted the program to fit each child’s needs. She spent time reviewing lessons, helping students prepare for tests, and teaching them healthy ways to manage stress. Her goal was not only to help them succeed academically, but also to help them feel confident in their abilities.

The results were clear during exam week. In previous years, exams could be overwhelming for some of our children. This year, they came prepared. They studied, reviewed their lessons, and approached their tests with greater confidence and independence.

When asked about this school unit, Carol shared: “This school year, the children have grown in their independence and responsibility. When exams approach, they prepare by studying and reviewing the material they learned throughout the unit. The academic level has increased according to each student’s ability, and every child now has their own books. Another important change is that all students now attend classes Monday through Thursday. On Fridays, middle school students participate in soccer, and elementary students attend basketball.”

While we’re proud of their academic progress, what encourages us most is the confidence they’ve gained along the way, and to celebrate their hard work, we took the children bowling after exams.

For many of the younger children, it was their first time. They were fascinated by the glowing blue lights and couldn’t stop smiling when they saw their socks glow under the black lights. Samantha and Guadalupe used the bowling ramp, while Daniela, Anthony, Daniel, Pablo, and Erick confidently bowled on their own.

The children cheered for one another, celebrated every strike, and laughed together throughout the afternoon. It was a fun reminder that growth isn’t only measured by grades. It’s also seen in confidence, perseverance, and the willingness to try something new.

As we celebrate these milestones, we want to thank you. Your support gives our children more than an education. It provides encouragement, opportunities, and the tools they need to keep growing. Because of you, our children are learning to face challenges with confidence and believe in what they can achieve. Thank you for being part of their journey and for making moments like these possible.