With varying conditions in each area, we start with a few questions to help shape our approach. The answers help us understand the scope of the need and categorize the project as either a Plant Project or Partner Project.
Education in Joconal used to stop at the 6th grade. Access to further education was limited to those who could make the long 3 hour trek each day to another village. With demands at home, this was not an option for many children. If they were able to complete 7th thru 9th grade in this way, there was no where to attend high school (10th thru 11th grade).
Since 2013, Lan Vwa has been working in Joconal to extend education beyond primary school. They connected Joconal with internet, computers, and an online classroom all of which created a connection to accredited teachers on a live feed. They started with computer skills classes and tutoring. In 2015, the first accredited 7th - 10th grade classes were led by Karina Leiva and Johanna Diaz, under the standards of the Guatemalan Ministry of Education. An additional community reading program was launched in March 2016 to generate interest for young kids in Joconal and reinforce writing skills in our secondary students.
By creating access to this education, we are helping students recognize that their dreams can become reality. Our students are an example to the rest of their community that they can have a better future.