Racing to School
NetAid World Schoolhouse partner Worldfund is helping children escape the cycle of poverty in El Salvador. Lucía González de Simán* shares first hand observations on Mano Amiga San Antonio School’s success.
What are the main issues causing poverty in the community where Mano Amiga San Antonio School is? 
The most important factor is lack of education. The average educational level in El Salvador is between fourth and fifth grade. In rural areas, like where the Mano Amiga San Antonio School is, the average is only third grade.
How are the children selected to attend the school when there are so many in need?
The most important criterion is that the family lives under conditions of poverty. Our certified social worker is responsible for analyzing the economic situation of each family. Two other important criteria are the attitude of the prospective student and of the parents towards the school, meaning whether they are committed to participate in school activities.
Are there any services that encourage parents to allow their children to go to school instead of working to help support the family?
Yes, we have a Parent's Training Program designed to teach parents about the importance of education and to increase parental participation in their child's development and school life.
What kind of impact has the school had on the students?
The impact can be measured in different dimensions. For the children, it has increased their enthusiasm and motivation. Now, when asked what they would like to be when they grow up, the students say teachers or doctors. Before, they lived day by day and did not have expectations for a professional life in the future.
Their health has improved from the free medical and dental care. Children that suffered from malnutrition now receive food supplements and close follow-up. Also, all children who needed eyeglasses and hearing aids have received them.
Academically, the students have exceeded expectations. On average, our sixth graders were ranked on the 99th percentile on a nationwide standardized language and math test carried out by the Ministry of Education. We are proud of our students. These results are outstanding!
If you could tell the youth in the US one thing about the project, what would it be?
Almost 60% of the children in El Salvador live under conditions of poverty. Yet they humbly accept whatever there is for dinner even though there may not be enough for breakfast. They show their best smile because they know how hard their parents worked to buy the tortilla that they ate the night before. Our students run to school because it is the place where they can dream about a better future. Their motivation is contagious and the students are an example to follow. They need your help, but surely they will make the best out of this opportunity.
Lucía González de Simán is the development manager of Fundación CIDECO which administers the Mano Amiga San Antonio School and community run clinics.
Learn more about the work of Worldfund in El Salvador.
Stay involved with the NetAid World Schoolhouse by joining the NetAid action network.
