By Sharon Doherty | Project Leader
The sponsorship project to bring Deaf children and young adults to Escuela de Educación Especial de San Miguel de Allende continues its support by helping them attend school where the use of Mexican Sign Language provides them an education.
The last months of the 2018-19 school term were awash with both academically stimulating and sustainable vocational activities. We name but a few of them and the students who were most impacted.
Laura, Fernanda and Juanita, having recently graduated, continue in the “vocational transition program” learning how to apply enjoyable, yet valuable and practical skills learned in the sewing workshop to a work environment outside school. They are preparing themselves for future employment in the “real world”. A young fashion designer was contracted to give one-on-one instruction to the young women on how make such things as bomber jackets and embellished denim jackets; along with blouses and dresses of a more creative design. As a result of what they have achieved so far, the group of three were hired by a local dance school instructor to create tutu’s for her young dance students. Fabulous work chicas!
Jesús, Alfonso and Max have also moved on from middle school. Their work in the carpentry workshop has led them to some great achievements. Max focuses on building furniture for Casita Linda (a non-profit in San Miguel building homes for families with few resources). When the houses are complete he also forms part of the team that delivers the furniture to the families, thus giving him first hand interaction with the people who receive the furniture he builds. Jesús and Alfonso have received local recognition creating outstanding wooden cutting boards and other practical items, such as amazing artists’ easels for sale in the school’s store Deseñas and also in a several private businesses serving artists in San Miguel. You guys are doing great!
Gaby, José Luis and Rafa continue to amaze with their beautifully crafted silver jewelry. Their designs were showcased recently at the San Miguel Writer’s Conference, Fabrica Aurora Art Walk, and gatherings of The San Miguel Literary Sala. Sales of the jewelry help provide a small income to these aspiring young artists and also help make the school’s vocational workshops sustainable. We are all so proud!
On the academic side, a fun and educational field trip took place on the last day of school. Young students Jacobo, Dylan, Maricruz, along with many other fellow students, were joined by family members, teachers and staff to take part in a visit to the neighboring city of Silao to see the science museum and sea life aquarium. Not only were many valuable science lessons learned in an interactive and fun way but it was also a great way to kick off summer vacation!
The 2019-20 school term holds even greater hope, promise and excitement for those attending EEESMA and who happen to be Deaf. The director and teachers have recently completed additional training, helping to build and develop their existing skills and several new children have enrolled for the new fall term. Attending EEESMA will be their best chance in attaining a meaningful education. It will also allow them to become part of an accepting and supportive Deaf community. Please join us in welcoming them and bringing them into the EEESMA fold by making your donation today.
Many more activities can be seen by following the school on Facebook @EEESanMiguelAllende
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