Education
Educational Services
UPAVIM provides a wide range of educational services to the students of La Esperanza including a K-6 Montessori School, an English program, tutoring center, and a scholarship program. Our mission supports the development of educational programs for the students of La Esperanza. These programs are funded through the sale of UPAVIM Crafts and generous donations from our supporters.
English Program
The English program was started in 2008 by one of our dedicated volunteers, Madeleine Anderson. English language is imperative for success in the Guatemalan education system and workforce. In 2013 UPAVIM expanded the English Program to a full-day Bilingual Program providing students with a greater opportunity towards gaining language proficiency.
Tutoring Center
UPAVIM’S tutoring center is a safe and interactive space in La Esperanza open to all students in primary grades to to find help with homework and enrichment through play. Reyna Cho, a local Guatemalan woman, supervises the tutoring program with the assistance of international volunteers when we have them. This program operates entirely on the generosity of our donors.
The Scholarship Program
UPAVIM has awarded scholarships to students in the community since 1992, and has since awarded around 300 scholarships annually. The $63 scholarship helps to cover the cost of basic school supplies, supplies for them to use at UPAVIM’s tutoring center, and the salary of a tutor.