By Andrew Stanger | Social Services and Development inter
It has been a few months since we last reported on the activities of the School of Hope. Since then many valuable moments have been created which illustrate what can be achieved through education. The students of the School of Hope are not only acquiring academic skills but also are exploring their creativity, celebrating their success and participating in the school’s traditions that connect the students with their community. In the meantime, the health program has continued to remove many practical obstacles to the education of those students who need glasses by giving prescription glasses to them.
Learning that builds confidence
The students in Second Grade A created small books about the topics or stories they liked most. To write words, sentences and short texts along with illustrating the pages of their books helped the students to better understand what they read and to feel proud of their work. The students of this class also learned their multiplication tables by singing, playing games and being competitive with each other. They even made decorated multiplication keyrings to keep practicing.
For the older students, the focus has been on future opportunities. Ninth Grade B students developed their personal life plans. They considered their strengths and values and then researched possible careers to set themselves goals for the future. They were able to find out about different careers through vocational assessments as well as through university and career fairs. In class, they have been exploring communication in the digital world, developing English through conversation including online learning, writing their own theatre scripts, and applying science through practical projects such as making water filters out of recycled materials. These activities help students to see how their ideas, skills and choices can be used to shape their future.
A clearer view of the classroom
In mid-August students who had been identified during our recent vision screening were handed out their donated glasses. The students were able to try them out immediately and feel the big difference they made. Being able to read from the board, follow along with a book and do written work comfortably at school is a big plus for the students. We are extremely grateful to the London Squint Clinic and all the individuals who examined students' eyes and donated the glasses, and to the school nurse for distributing the glasses with coordination.
Recognising dedication and achievement
The abanderado ceremony was held on the sports court where students, teachers and many parents were gathered to recognize the students from each section who had earned the highest grades. Each of the honored students received a diploma and wore a ceremonial sash across his or her shoulder. It was a great occasion to celebrate the hard work and persistence of the students, and for younger students to see positive role models. Academic recognition is not just about grades; it also recognizes students’ attendance, effort, curiosity and the support of their families and teachers throughout the year.
Celebrating Guatemalan independence
The community of Jocotenango celebrated their Independence Day, and the Student Representatives of The School of Hope carried the banner of our school, the Guatemalan flag and also images that represented the history of independence of our country, in the procession with traditional clothing, music and colors. The Ribbon Dance was performed at the end of the parade in Jocotenango’s main square in front of everyone from the municipality who came to see the parade. In order to prepare and to perform this event the students required a lot of coordination, patience and courage, but in the end it was a lot of fun for them, and they felt proud of having been able to express their culture and represent their school in front of the community.
Helping every child recognize their potential, whether that child can see the blackboard better, enjoys reading, or is planning their future career, all these moments are connected and made possible by the School of Hope's academic, health, and community support that is fostered through your kind donations. Your generosity enables the School of Hope to support each student and keep learning centered on confidence, opportunity and belonging.
By Rosa Rafanomezana | Intern Development Department
By Rosa Rafanomezana | Development Department Intern
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