About JubileeOur Blog
09
Jul '24
Turning Trash into Treasures – Recycling Fair
09
Jul '24
We just celebrated an incredible Recycle Fair with a spectacular runway show! All the older grades participated enthusiastically, transforming what some consider trash into impressive works of art and practical tools.
The event emphasized the importance of recycling and sustainability, encouraging students to think creatively about how to repurpose everyday items. Each grade presented their unique creations, showcasing their hard work and innovative ideas. The highlight of the day was the fashion show, where students walked the runway in outfits made entirely from recycled materials.
In Honduras, we face unprecedented problems with waste pollution and pollution waves, which seriously affect the country. That’s why it is considered important to reduce waste in Honduras. According to data from official UN sources: “The inadequate solid waste management prevailing in most municipalities causes serious contamination to the environment with direct consequences for human and environmental health. The largest cities such as Tegucigalpa, San Pedro Sula, Choloma, La Ceiba, Choluteca, and El Progreso generate 54% of the total volume of municipal solid waste in the country. Only 20% (60) of the 298 municipalities in the country have a waste collection service.”
This situation drives us to reduce waste and adopt recycling methods that can improve public health. For Hondurans, recycling is not only important for its long-term impact but also crucial for immediate conditions. Poor solid waste management is one of the major causes of flooding in our cities during the rainy season (June-November). Recycling is the easiest way to address this recurring problem individually.
The 7th – 9th grade students particularly stood out with their recycled fashion pieces. Their dresses, made from various materials like plastic bags, newspapers, and old fabric, left everyone in awe with their ingenuity and originality. The level of detail and creativity in their designs was truly impressive, proving that fashion and sustainability can go hand in hand.
Ms. Brenda Almendares, our dedicated Skills Class teacher, shared her insights on the importance of recycling: “Those things we consider waste could have a second life and be used well to reduce pollution and give them a new use in different ways.” Her words resonated with everyone, highlighting the potential of recycled materials and the importance of environmental consciousness.
This recycling fair was not only a showcase of creativity but also a valuable learning experience for everyone involved. It taught students that with a bit of imagination, everything can have a new purpose and contribute to a more sustainable world.
Thank you to all the participants, our amazing Jubilee Family for making this recycling fair a resounding success! We look forward to more events like this in the future, where we can continue to promote creativity, sustainability, and environment
Read more...
02
Jul '24
Sharing our indigenous culture!
02
Jul '24
Did you know that Honduras is a country with an incredibly diverse cultural heritage? In honor of the beginning of Indigenous Peoples’ Month, we’re taking you on a fascinating journey through the ethnic groups of Honduras. Get ready to learn about their colorful costumes, delicious foods, and unique traditions that preschool children have been enthusiastically celebrating.
The Ethnic Groups of Honduras: A Cultural Treasure
Honduras is home to nine ethnic groups, each with its own history, customs, and way of life. Here are some of the main ones:
1. The Garífunas
Originating from the Atlantic coast, the Garífunas are known for their vibrant music and dances, such as Punta. They are Afro-Caribbean heritage and their typical attire includes colorful skirts and embroidered shirts. In Garífuna cuisine, there are many delicious dishes, with the most famous being “sopa de caracol”.
Originating from the Atlantic coast, the Garífunas are known for their vibrant music and dances, such as Punta. They are Afro-Caribbean heritage and their typical attire includes colorful skirts and embroidered shirts. In Garífuna cuisine, there are many delicious dishes, with the most famous being “sopa de caracol”.
2. The Miskitos
Located in the region of La Mosquitia, the Miskitos have a very close relationship with nature. Their traditional costumes are made from natural fibers, and their cuisine includes dishes like Kasabe, a type of yuca tortilla commonly eaten with a stew of meat and plantain.
Located in the region of La Mosquitia, the Miskitos have a very close relationship with nature. Their traditional costumes are made from natural fibers, and their cuisine includes dishes like Kasabe, a type of yuca tortilla commonly eaten with a stew of meat and plantain.
3. The Lencas
The Lencas, the largest indigenous group in Honduras, are found in the mountains of the western part of the country. Their clothing is colorful and adorned with geometric patterns. Among their typical dishes are montucas, which are sweet corn dough wrapped in leaves and filled with chicken or pork.
The Lencas, the largest indigenous group in Honduras, are found in the mountains of the western part of the country. Their clothing is colorful and adorned with geometric patterns. Among their typical dishes are montucas, which are sweet corn dough wrapped in leaves and filled with chicken or pork.
4. The Tolupanes
Living in the mountains of central Honduras, the Tolupanes keep their ancestral traditions alive. Their attire includes long, colorful tunics, and their diet is based on corn, beans and rice.
Living in the mountains of central Honduras, the Tolupanes keep their ancestral traditions alive. Their attire includes long, colorful tunics, and their diet is based on corn, beans and rice.
5. The Mayas
The Mayas are renowned for their advanced ancient civilization, known for impressive ruins like Copán, their sophisticated understanding of astronomy, and significant contributions to mathematics. But the Mayan culture is not just a relic of the past; it is a living, vibrant tradition carried on by their descendants.
Today, the Mayas continue to honor their rich heritage through traditional practices, languages, and crafts. They preserve their ancestral knowledge and celebrate their identity with colorful festivals, intricate weaving, and traditional ceremonies.
Throughout the month, preschool children have been showing their classmates what the ethnic groups of Honduras are like. They have shared delicious traditional foods such as baleadas (thick tortillas filled with beans and cheese), tamalitos (small corn cakes), pineapple drinks, coconut candies, fried fish, and plantains. With their traditional costumes and tasty dishes, they have transformed the classroom into a cultural feast.
Honduras is a country full of diversity and cultural richness. By celebrating Honduras’ Indigenous Peoples’ Month, we not only honor these ethnic groups but also learn to appreciate the variety and beauty of our roots. We hope this journey has inspired you to learn more about Honduras and to pray for the global church that His Kingdom would grow in every tribe, language, ethnic group across Honduras and the world.
Read more...
26
Jun '24
Pizza, Puzzles, and 6th Grade
26
Jun '24
At Jubilee, we believe that learning should be fun, interactive, and memorable. This week, our 6th graders had a blast during a unique and exciting activity that combined creativity, laughter, and a touch of mystery – the Paper Pizza Puzzle Day!
A Slice of Creativity
But these weren’t just any pizzas; these were special slices with a twist. Each student designed their pizza with colorful toppings and imaginative flair. Once their masterpieces were complete, they flipped their pizzas over to reveal the next part of the activity: writing riddles!
Honduran Riddles for Extra Flavor
Our students penned down some classic Honduran riddles, adding a cultural touch to their creative work. Here’s a mix of some riddles we have in Honduras and their counterparts (not direct translations) in English.
Blanca por dentro, verde por fuera. Si quieres que te lo diga, espera. ¿Qué es?
– (Answer: La pera)
I am a fruit that’s green on the outside and white inside. What am I?
– (Answer: Pear)
¿Qué cosa es, que mientras más le quitas más grande es?
– (Answer: El hoyo)
The more you take, the more you leave behind. What is it?
– (Answer: Footsteps)
Tiene dientes y no come, tiene cabeza y no es hombre. ¿Qué es?
– (Answer: El ajo)
What has a head, a tail, but no body?
– (Answer: A coin)
Adivina adivinador: ¿Quién lleva en la cabeza un sombrero sin ser hombre ni mujer?
– (Answer: El hongo)
I have a neck but no head, two arms but no hands. What am I?
– (Answer: A shirt)
These riddles, steeped in Honduran culture, sparked curiosity and joy as students exchanged their pizzas and tried to solve each other’s puzzles. Learn more about spanish facts:
The Joy of Interactive Learning
Activities like the Paper Pizza Puzzle Day are a testament to the power of interactive and enjoyable learning experiences. Our students thrive in environments where they can express themselves creatively, engage with their peers, and connect with their cultural heritage. Seeing their smiles and hearing their laughter reminds us why we do what we do.
At Jubilee, we’re committed to making education a joyful journey. We’re proud of our 6th graders and 6th grade teacher, Mrs. Karol, for their creativity and enthusiasm, and we can’t wait to see what other innovative and fun learning activities we’ll cook up next!
Read more...
18
Jun '24
Training time with our North American sisters! Reflections and Training Insights
18
Jun '24
Explore the transformative power of faith and education at Jubilee Centers through reflections on purpose and insights from training opportunities for each teacher.
Welcoming our North American sisters from The potter’s House Schoolin Grand Rapids, Michigan brings us great Joy as we began the training days with a time of worship and devotions.
Reflection on Purpose
At Jubilee Centers, we cherish the joy of being a family united in faith and education. Welcoming our North American family members brings us immense joy as we share special devotionals together on June 17th and 18th. Their insights on their relationship with the Lord inspire us to deepen our own faith journeys. Reflecting on Esther 4:14, we ponder our purpose here: In what ways the Lord is calling us to step out in faith and obey His calling in our time and in this generation, just like Esther did in her time?
Training Opportunities
Every year, we gratefully receive training from our North American partners. This year’s focus on using thinking maps to enhance student performance has been invaluable. In Honduras, there are few opportunities for Teacher Training and Professional Development, which makes these opportunities even more valuable. We are thankful that the National Teacher’s University (UPNFM) provides a quality ecational formation for teachers, but as a country there is not a culture of reading, so these trainings and the resources we have at Jubilee’s library help to fill in the gap and strengthen reading and writing skills for our students and teachers.
We appreciate our North American friends dedicating their time to empower us professionally and strengthen our educational community. Thinking maps are transformative tools that improve how our students absorb and retain knowledge.
Learn more about thinking maps right here:
Impact and Vision
We thank God for these opportunities and for the Jubilee community, where we continue to grow together in faith and knowledge. We fondly remember each plan the Lord has revealed and how we are part of His great purpose. “He who began a good work in you will bring it to completion at the day of Jesus Christ.” – Philippians 1:6 At Jubilee, we are called to be the light and salt of the world, impacting lives through education and faith. Let us move forward with joy and hope, knowing that we are where God wants us to be, to fulfill His will.
God is impacting lives through education. Join us in our mission to make a difference at Jubilee Centers!
Read more...
10
Jun '24
Exams in Jubilee: A Time of Growth and Preparation
10
Jun '24
The students at Jubilee are facing a new phase in their education: Midterm exams. This situation generates some concern among the students and their families. However, it is important to understand how these exams are conducted in Honduras to face this stage with greater peace of mind.
In Honduras, primary education comprises grades one through six and is mandatory. Midterm exams are an essential tool for evaluating the academic progress of students and ensuring they are acquiring the necessary knowledge.
The school year in Honduras is divided into trimesters or “parciales.” At the end of each of these periods, midterm evaluations are conducted. These evaluations typically account for a quarter of the final grade. Written exams usually focus on memorization of facts and specific knowledge, such as dates, historical events, grammatical rules, and mathematical operations
The questions in the written exams are primarily multiple-choice, true/false, and short-answer formats. This type of question aims to have students demonstrate their knowledge in a precise and direct manner.
Some parents have shared their strategies for studying with their children during this stressful time. Karen, mother of April and Ailin, 6th graders, explains that she allows them to rest when they get home, then their studie and review the topics that will be on the exam. She gives her daughters breaks after each topic, helping them to remember and consolidate their learning.
Similarly, Estefania, mother of Escaleth, a 2nd grader, shares that she uses games to help her daughter remember the lessons more easily. She also gives her daughter periodic breaks and discusses each study topic with her.
It is important to mention that not only parents and students are striving during this season, but also our teachers, who share their strategies for improving the performance of their students before and during the exam.
Ms. Yorleni tells us how she starts with a devotional, allowing her students to leave all their burdens in the hands of the Lord. She then gives a thorough review of all the topics that will be covered in the exam. After this, she gives them time to relax and finally conducts review games with questions right before administering the exam.
Ms. Keyla advises her students about the excessive use of cell phones before the exam so they can use their study time positively. She provides study guides and discusses with them any questions they might have.
In a child’s life, exam time can be very overwhelming, but it is very necessary for their development. This season is an excellent opportunity to put into practice the verse that says, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28)
Read more...
10
May '24
Benjamin’s Story: Hope and Kindness
10
May '24
In a big world where things can be tough, there’s a little guy named Benjamin. He’s only eight, but he’s got big dreams of being a teacher. His life hasn’t been easy. His mom died when he was just a baby, and his dad isn’t around much. Benjamin lives with his grandpa, who’s doing his best, but times are hard. Benjamin’s grandma is sick, and all the money goes to her medicine.
But Benjamin is special. He’s always thinking about others, praying for his family, especially his grandma. Even though he’s facing tough times, he stays positive and thankful.
School isn’t easy for Benjamin either. His dad doesn’t help much, and they don’t have much money. Sometimes, he goes to school without the things he needs, like pencils and notebooks. His backpack is often empty, except for old stuff from his cousin.
But then something amazing happened. His teacher, Ms. Yorleny, noticed Benjamin’s struggle and decided to help. In Jubilee we gave him a little school kit with pencils, colors, and notebooks. Benjamin’s teacher saw a big change. He started doing better in school because he had the right tools.
This small act of kindness made a big difference in Benjamin’s life. It showed him that Jesus cared for him and replied to his prayers, it gave him hope for the future.
Now, you have a chance to be part of Benjamin’s story. For little more than 1 dollar each day, you can help change his life and the lives of other kids like him. You can make a real connection by sponsoring Benjamin and even meeting him in person on a mission trip.
Will you be a part of Benjamin’s journey? Will help bless the Kingdom of God here in Tegucigalpa, Honduras, one child at a time?
Read more...
