Open door school for blind children in Guadalajara

April has been a month of growth and meaningful progress in our program. We welcomed four new students, expanding our community and reaffirming our commitment to inclusive, high-quality care. We also continued implementing the project “The world through senses and movement,” providing targeted support to children who need to strengthen their autonomy, balance, and body control to navigate their environment with greater confidence.

In the classroom, we continue to build academic skills through specialized methodologies and engaging activities such as reading, comprehension, and math challenges. We are also fostering a love for reading through initiatives like the “traveling book” and the creation of audio stories, encouraging active participation and creativity among students.

One of the most meaningful moments this month was the closing of our arts project with a heartfelt “Talent Show,” where students and families shared their abilities and achievements. These experiences help strengthen confidence, creativity, and a sense of belonging. At the same time, we continue working closely with parents and teachers through training sessions that enhance their ability to support children both at home and in the classroom.

Thank you for continuing to be part of this journey. Your support as donors makes it possible to turn these efforts into real opportunities for our students and their families.

This new school cycle began with a beautiful expansion of our community. We welcomed five new students in primary school, five in early education, and one in the multiple-challenges program. Our new primary students live with low vision, which called for immediate adjustments in teaching methods and learning strategies. It also required close attention to group dynamics, as differences in visual ability often create behavioral challenges that we work through with guidance, empathy, and firm support.

In the multiple-challenges area, we continued to strengthen sensory stimulation for infants, preschoolers, and primary students. Our sensory room is now used with greater intention, and we are thrilled to have a dedicated teacher leading this work. This has elevated the consistency, depth, and warmth of the interventions our children receive.

We also welcomed new instructors in physical education, swimming, and dance. The PE and swimming teacher is helping students develop body control, personal safety, and the confidence to take on challenges—skills that empower them far beyond the classroom. Our dance teacher has introduced contemporary dance and simple ballet, opening a window into artistic expression, cultural appreciation, and a new relationship with rhythm and movement.

A highlight of the trimester was our visit to the town of Mezcala. Nearly all our students joined—from babies to primary. They climbed a small hill and discovered historical ruins, rode on motorboats and rowboats across Lake Chapala, shared meals, played, explored, and related to one another in new and meaningful ways. It was a day of discovery, joy, and connection.

Teachers and families also received an introductory session in Mexican Sign Language from a specialist. This strengthens our commitment to total communication and ensures every child has more pathways to express themselves. Additionally, we held a well-attended parents' meeting focused on nutrition, behavior, and autonomy—key elements in building a supportive environment both at home and at school.

We continue working with the Perkins methodology for blindness and multiple disabilities, combined with active learning approaches and integrative projects that deepen understanding and independence. In primary school, we began issuing evaluation reports for extracurricular workshops to provide clearer follow-up and encourage continued growth.

This trimester reminded us that inclusion is not just a method—it is a daily choice to adapt, to listen, to innovate, and to believe in each child’s potential. Every step forward strengthens not only our students, but the entire community that surrounds them.