Students Growing, Learning, and Thriving at The Little Mountain School
As we reach the middle of the year, there is much to celebrate at The Little Mountain School in Joya Honda, Guatemala.
Every day, students are gaining knowledge, building confidence, and developing the skills they need to create brighter futures for themselves and their communities. None of this would be possible without the generosity of supporters who believe in the power of education to transform lives.
Strengthening English Education
One of the highlights of this school year has been the continued growth of our English program.
Through engaging, participatory lessons, students are developing practical communication skills that will serve them well throughout their lives. More than simply learning vocabulary and grammar, students are gaining confidence in their ability to communicate, connect with others, and pursue future educational and professional opportunities.
Watching a student speak confidently in a second language for the first time is a powerful reminder that education expands horizons far beyond the classroom walls.
Building a Culture of Preparedness
Creating a safe learning environment remains a priority at The Little Mountain School.
Recently, students and staff participated in an institutional earthquake drill in commemoration of the devastating earthquakes that have impacted Guatemala throughout history. The exercise provided an opportunity to practice emergency procedures and reinforce the importance of responding calmly, responsibly, and in an organized manner during a crisis.
These experiences help ensure that students not only feel safe, but are prepared to navigate challenges with confidence.
Beautifying Our School Together
Education is strongest when families and schools work together.
This month, students, parents, teachers, and maintenance staff joined together to plant flowers throughout the school grounds. The project helped beautify the campus while teaching students the importance of caring for natural resources and taking pride in their environment.
At The Little Mountain School, parents play an essential role in the educational journey. Their involvement demonstrates to students that learning, responsibility, and stewardship extend far beyond the classroom.
The flower planting project served as a joyful reminder that strong communities are built when everyone contributes.
Join The Mountain Circle
As our school continues to grow, so do the needs of our students and teachers.
The Mountain Circle, GEO’s monthly donor community, provides the steady support needed to sustain daily meals, teacher salaries, educational supplies, technology resources, and English instruction throughout the year.
Monthly support can provide:
• $25/month to supply classroom materials for five students for an entire school year
• $50/month to provide two daily meals for three students for a full year
• $120/month to cover a student’s complete annual educational costs
• $240/month to fully support two students for an entire year
Supporters can also sponsor an entire classroom of approximately 25 students for $36,000 annually or $3,000 per month.
Most importantly, Mountain Circle members become ongoing partners in the life of the school through regular updates, stories, photos, and opportunities to see the impact of their generosity firsthand.
A Growing Need
Enrollment at The Little Mountain School continues to increase, bringing education and opportunity to more children than ever before.
However, growth also brings increased costs. As of June, GEO has raised only 25% of the $360,000 needed to operate the school in 2026.
If you have the ability to make a meaningful gift this summer, we invite you to stand with these students and families. Your generosity helps ensure that children in rural Guatemala continue to receive education, nourishment, encouragement, and hope.
Together, we are building brighter futures—one student at a time.
