April 2024: Palapa Society News

The Palapa School

Multidisciplinary Congress

By Fátima M., 4th semester student


The first Multidisciplinary Congress, designed by our high school students, began on March 5th. 

The purpose of the event was to; 

discuss environmental and cultural problems in the town,

focus on disseminating research, and propose a number of solutions to these problems. 


There were presentations, posters, and dialogue tables in which students shared their knowledge and raised awareness throughout the school to make a change in favor of Planet Earth. 

 

This Congress brought together several subjects to develop and present research results. It was the result of several months of work and a collective effort by the entire high school. The students obtained a deeper understanding of the research process, presentation skills, and identified issues and potential solutions of the environment within their own community.  

Free, Not Just Brave.

By Evanette N.

To commemorate Women's Day, the sixth-semester group devised activities to promote a better understanding of this day and all the years women have fought to obtain the rights and visibility that were previously repressed.                


The day started with a student speech, allowing us to reflect on the importance of commemorating this day and of the women’s struggle of our past to obtain equality. Activities included mixed team races to promote collaboration and camaraderie. 


A special screening of the movie "Barbie” concluded the activities. This iconic character, who has evolved over the years and served as an inspiration for several girls around the world, served as a starting point for an in-depth discussion about gender stereotypes and the representation of women in the media and to be able to reflect on how a fairer society could be built. 


The day ended with reflections on how to continue promoting gender equality in our school and community. Every conversation we start brings us closer to a future where we all have an equal opportunity to shine. 


Puente al Inglés para Niños

By Jacki Gillespie


Happy Spring! We are in our final stretch of the school year. This month we started a Supply Drive to replenish supplies for the upcoming school year. You can find a list of needed supplies on our Facebook page. If you, or someone you know, is visiting Todos Santos, think about bringing a few extra school supplies to help with our Supply Drive. Every donation is greatly appreciated and goes toward helping our students get the most out of our program.

We would like to send a special thank you to the Lanier Family, who also made a visit to our facility as well as the McMartin/Puckett family and Mike Pollack.


Last month, students from the Palapa School taught the Puente students about the importance of recycling. They included slides and handouts. The kids really enjoyed this informative lesson.


This month we will begin to plan out summer activities, including Water Safety classes. More to come in future newsletters!

Puente Adultos

Spring term began April 9th, and I’d like to thank our outstanding volunteer teachers for their dedication and hard work. Our morning team of Mark Miller, Mike McFadden, Suzanne Lee Taylor, and Yolanda Trevino Villegas together with our afternoon group of Anne Patterson, Chris Day, Joyce Anderson, Paolo Santucci, and Paul Ridge all contribute greatly to the community with their efforts. We can always use new volunteer assistants, subs, and teachers. If you would like to be part of this rewarding endeavor, please contact us at adultenglish@palapasociety.org Our next term will run April 9-July 9. 


We are planning 1- to 2-day vocational workshops over the summer that we hope will reach many of our local service people who may not be familiar with our program. 

Saying Farewell

It is with mixed emotions that we announce the departure of Jamie Sechrist, our Director of Fund Development and Marketing (and so much more). Jamie has been an integral part of our organization's journey, contributing immensely to our growth and success.


Jamie recently relocated to New Mexico start her new position as the Executive Director for a Community Foundation there. However, we are pleased to share that she will continue to support The Palapa Society as a part-time consultant through the end of July, ensuring a smooth transition for our team.


Since joining The Palapa Society in 2014, Jamie has played a pivotal role in shaping our marketing, fundraising, and strategic planning initiatives, and has been instrumental in expanding our outreach to the Todos Santos community. Her dedication, passion, and leadership have left an indelible mark on our mission and values.


While we are saddened to bid farewell to Jamie, we are incredibly proud of her as she embarks on a new chapter in her career. We are confident that her expertise and passion will continue to make a positive impact on the communities she serves, and we wish her the very best in her future endeavors.


In addition, Jamie will remain a valued member of our organization as she continues to serve as a board member of Palapa’s Society's US Fundraising Organization (Friends of Palapa Society).


Although Jamie's departure marks the end of an era for us, it also presents an opportunity for growth and renewal. As we move forward, we are committed to building upon the foundation laid by Jamie and further strengthening our organization's impact on the Todos Santos community.

Donor Appreciation Party

Our annual Donor Appreciation Dinner was a delight! A big thank you to Rancho Corazon - DUM - and their staff for a delicious meal under the palms. Our director Diego Carranza and students gave inspiring talks, sharing their successes and appreciation to our donors. 


With a special thanks to Ardice Farrow for helping students prepare their speeches. We also heard from our new student teacher, Ainsley Epperson, who spoke on her impressive first few days in the classrooms and how amazing the students were to work with. Another special thanks to our supporters, Milt and Judi Stewart, who recommended The Palapa School to the Indiana University Global Gateway program and hosting our second exchange teacher. It was a fun evening sharing accomplishments of The Palapa Society and extending gratitude to our donors. Muchas Gracias!

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MISSION
The Palapa Society of Todos Santos, A.C. exists to make a positive difference in people’s lives through inspirational quality education and timely support through community service and programs.

VISION
It is the vision of The Palapa Society of Todos Santos, A.C. to be a sustainable, accessible community focused organization in which quality educational programs empower choice filled lives and create positive transformational change.
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