“Schools are the fabric of our culture,” said my friend Chris as he made announcements in church. Indeed they are, I thought, as memories of the past week went through my mind.
June is graduation season. We often take that for granted in a country where education is commonplace. But graduation for a PathLight student is truly a momentous occasion.
Last week D’Aun and I led a group of about 20 people to Belize and celebrated the accomplishments of some amazing young men and women. These students are the first in their families to complete high school, and by estimate only 3% of their entire village has graduated. Now that’s an accomplishment worthy of celebration!
When I asked some of the students how they managed to complete their degree, each of them talked about the support they received from PathLight. There are many pressures they contend with, from academic standards to economic challenges. But they persevered and overcame it all. I’m proud of them.
And for the third time in a row the PathLight students led their class academically! The Sponsorship+ program really does work!
Here are a few photos from the week. Hopefully it will make you want to join me on a future trip!
One of the graduates with his parents and sponsors.
The Valedictorian gives her speech!
We met with a few of the PathLight college students at the University of Belize.
Meeting with the high school administrators.
Dion is the PathLight staffer who works with the students on a daily basis. He deserves credit for helping these kids get through school!
Pastor Carol talking to one of the (hopefully) future PathLight students.
Fellow traveler Katharine caught this great shot of a little girl studying at the primary school.
We had time to visit one of the many Mayan ruins in Belize.
Danielle, Robyn and D’Aun were celebrating with a high five about…um…something?
Okay, I’m guilty of checking my email even when in Belize.