Promoción

The Nicaraguan academic calendar differs from that of the States in that it follows a schedule in accordance with the changing of the year. In other words, children begin school in early February, have a small vacation in July, and terminate the year in December. Promoción, the special celebration in which students graduate from preschool, elementary school, and high school, occurs in early-t0-mid December every year. This year we were fortunate to attend the promoción at Niño Jesus de Praga, one of the local private schools that many of the children in our programs attend. It included a long procession, lively traditional dance performances, the Nicaraguan national anthem, and a recitation of every graduate's name. We are very proud of all the graduates!

Way to go!

I am continually impressed by the importance of education and the value of knowledge. A literate society develops the economic, social, and political power of the average citizen. In the words of Former UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan, "Literacy unlocks the door to learning throughout life, is essential to development and health, and opens the way for democratic participation and active citizenship." In a country where the total adult literacy rate is 76.7% (according to 2009 United Nations Development Programme Report), I am encouraged to see families and students passionate about their education.