Primary Education for Mayan Children

Summary

The project helps indigenous families overcome poverty and discrimination to obtain primary school education for their children.

What is the issue, problem, or challenge?

The project targets vulnerable children and families living in extreme poverty. Mostly Mayan, these families face discrimination based on race, poverty and their lack of formal education. 87% of mothers in the project are illiterate and 98% indigenous. The project will aid 20 school-aged children and their families.

How will this project solve this problem?

Placement of school-age children in appropriate schools. One day per week of personalized attention for each student, assistance with homework, and counseling. Monitoring of performance and home visits, family counseling as needed.

Potential Long Term Impact

Our records show that less than 5% of project participants drop out of school. Over 80% advance to next grade. This gives Mayan children a chance to continue their educations, access better jobs and overcome barriers faced by the illiterate.

Project Message

Many mothers say, before the program they were alone with their fears. Now they have the confidence to demand their rights. Their children finish school breaking the cycle of illiteracy and poverty
- Nelida Maldonado, Coordinator

Additional Documentation

This project has provided additional documentation in a Microsoft Word file (projdoc.doc).

Resources