Fourteen 9th graders receive diplomas during graduation celebration
The graduating class of 2026
Fourteen 9th graders receive diplomas during Escuela Integrada’s 20th graduation celebration
On Wednesday, Nov. 4, Escuela Integrada celebrated their 20th graduation! That is 20 years of students passing 9th grade and moving into their jobs or further education. It is no small accomplishment considering the trials and tribulations of the school over the past 21 years, and the difficulties of individual family circumstances.
Every one of the 14 9th grade students passed their grade and graduated this year. Of the 159 students, only six percent did not pass their grade to advance to the next grade. If this is their first time not passing their grade, they are given the opportunity to repeat the same grade the next year.
“It has been a good year,” said Bradler Santos, principal of Escuela Integrada, noting the new programs in the school including a stronger sports program, a new Bible study program, and the continuation of English classes provided through a partnership with Academy of Future Leaders.
The school also hired a human resources consulting company to provide leadership and teamwork training sessions, as well as training focused on improving individual performance.
“These initiatives have been instrumental in further enhancing the quality of service provided by Escuela Integrada,” said Santos.
The 2026 year was not without challenges, but the local board, leadership and staff worked hard to implement new systems for a better 2027. Five teachers left Escuela Integrada for government positions, including some who had served the school for a very long time. Additionally, the school leadership went through a restructuring. One outcome of these changes was the ability to hire an assistant principal who is bringing new ideas, education best practices, and additional structure to the school.
“I am proud of all the work they put in during a difficult time,” said Hannah Nadeu Girón, executive director of GRACES. “They have more clarity, accountability and progress toward a school that will thrive moving forward.”
The school completed the enrollment period at the end of October and received 35 applications for available spots. New this year, a GRACES staff member and Escuela Integrada teacher accompanied the enrollment staff on home visits to deepen the connection with families and assess their needs. A few open spots remain which will be offered to families in the local area.
Escuela Integrada teachers and Supporters Gathering participants shared a meal and discussed the school’s future plans
Supporters Gathering focuses on partnerships in local area, plans for growth
GRACES annual Supporters Gathering concluded on Friday, Nov. 6, after a week full of activities, graduations and planning meetings. Attendees reviewed the financials and programs of the organization, discussed plans for the coming year, and, most importantly, spent time with the students and their families on home visits.
Participants celebrated kindergarten, 6th grade and 9th grade graduation alongside the teachers and staff of Escuela Integrada. They also visited Academy of Future Leaders and Ahava Ministries, two of GRACES local partner organizations.
“Attending a Supporters Gathering like this is such a powerful reminder of how God moves through community, relationships and shared vision,” said Wanda Brown of Bentonville, Arkansas. “Seeing the impact that GRACES and their partners are having provides an incredible faith refill. I was honestly blown away with the stories of how AFL and Ahava started. Talk about trusting God and following your faith!”
During the week, attendees heard from Escuela Integrada leadership about plans for the future at the school. The school announced plans for a marching band, literary cafes, project-based learning and increased literacy through the library and family literacy programs.
The week also included cultural activities including walking tours, shopping at the artisan’s market, meals in local restaurants and a chocolate workshop.
“It was an incredible week in Guatemala, filled with graduation celebrations, home visits with students, and quality time with teachers and staff,” said longtime supporter Kelly Junk of Tulsa, Oklahoma. “Seeing firsthand how God is moving was a true blessing, uniting us in hope as we dream together and trust Him for the future.”
Keep an eye on our Facebook and Instagram pages to see photos from the week!
- Sponsor Update Meetings – Last one for 2026!
- November & December: Escuela Integrada summer break
- Nov. 29: Will you join us at the table? More info coming soon!