In the rural agrarian community of San Antonio Palopó, a dedicated changemaker is on a mission to uplift youth through education. Mildred, a Maya-Kaqchikel woman and first-generation university graduate, deeply understands her community’s challenges and aspirations. As the Learning Communities Program Coordinator, she is driving a transformative program that puts community voices at the center.
Overcoming Educational Barriers
Mildred grew alarmed as she witnessed a trend in San Antonio – decreasing student grades, dwindling attendance, and fading ambitions. Mildred explains that the barriers to student success are complex: economic hardship, migration pressures, and a scarcity of resources, including role models. Many students, even in elementary school, feel compelled to prioritize work over education to contribute to their family’s income. Parents, most having not surpassed 5th grade themselves, struggled to see the long-term value of schooling.
Jefferson, a fourth grader and a regular participant in the tutoring program, explains, ‘I’m an only child, so I have to help my mom and my dad with the house chores.’ He adds, ‘My dad is my biggest motivator. He likes that I learn new things and finish my homework when I come [to the tutoring center].’
Undeterred, Mildred approached these challenges with empathy and compassion.
The Power of Partnerships
Mildred engages the voices of families by facilitating extensive and continuous dialogues with parents, encouraging them “to view education as an investment in their children’s futures.”
Mildred also collaborates closely with community leaders, teachers, school administrators, and municipal officials to deeply understand local needs and co-create solutions. Through countless meetings and extensive informational sessions, powerful collaborations have emerged and have given way to an impactful community-driven program.
Last year, the local municipality agreed to donate space for tutoring sessions—a monumental win for the community’s students. Following this success, Mildred’s Learning Communities program expanded into San Antonio.
Now, students have access to four weekly tutoring sessions, receiving personalized academic support at no cost. But it’s become so much more than just tutoring.
Inspiring Young Role Models
“Sometimes, the students just need someone to listen to them,” Mildred shares. Often, my role is more that of a big sister.” The tutoring sessions have blossomed into a safe haven where students can be themselves, explore ideas, and uplift one another.
The impact on students like Gladys and Jefferson is remarkable. The students begin to transform into much-needed role models for their peers.
Gladys, a fifth grader, enthusiastically invites her classmates to the tutoring sessions. Introducing her best friend, Rosita, Gladys explains, ‘I asked her to come because Miss Mildred said that anyone can come, and I want us to finish our homework for tomorrow.’ When talking to her classmates, Gladys describes the tutoring center as a space to review their most difficult topics, finish homework, and explore new ideas and friendships. Mildred warmly welcomes all, encouraging participants to extend the invitation to siblings, cousins, and neighbors.
Driving Change Through Community Involvement
These students are becoming role models for their peers, demonstrating great responsibility and discipline. School administrators and teachers now recommend students to the tutoring sessions, recognizing its transformative potential.
Mildred’s approach is rooted in listening, understanding, and co-creating solutions. “The students must be their own impulses,” she reflects. “We can support and motivate them, but they must take the steps.” By actively listening to students, parents, and local leaders, she has created a program that truly responds to San Antonio’s unique needs and aspirations. This collaborative approach ensures that the community is not merely a passive recipient of aid but an active partner in shaping its own future.
