LEER will increase the number of youth in the Bajo Lempa of Jiquilisco that attend school beyond the 6th grade, and thereby protect them from the violence that is ravaging El Salvador. Local leaders and teachers will create a regional Board of Education to advocate for more government resources, and revamp the current curriculum. The Board will also train teachers to provide mental health services, special education, and guidance counseling. Voices will accompany them at every step.
El Salvador's gangs have moved into the Bajo Lempa, resulting in murders, extortion, and rape. Youth are tempted by the gangs, which recruit by offering phones, money, and an exciting lifestyle. Voices on the Border and local leaders agree the way to keep youth safe is with education. The region's schools, however, are under-resourced and unable to offer a reason to attend. Local leaders want to organize a Board of Education to advocate for resources and increase the quality of education.
LEER will empower communities to provide quality education by creating a regional Board of Education, updating the curriculum, and training a cadre of teachers to provide mental health services, special education, and guidance counseling. The Board will advocate for more financial resources from the central government, while partnering with Voices to update the curriculum, train teachers, and organize parent's groups. Bajo Lempa youth want to study - LEER will give the a reason to be in school.
Creating a regional Board of Education, updating the school curriculum, and training teachers to provide more comprehensive services will ensure that more youth attend school and are productive members of their communities. LEER will also strengthen the culture of education in the Bajo Lempa and empower communities to address their future educational needs. Most importantly, LEER will help keep youth safe and in school.
