Alexa with her students - July 2008

Watching the transformation of the Macchi School from a pile of bricks to a thriving, intellectual oasis in Tobati has been a remarkable experience.

Though the school is still young, it has quickly developed a coherent mission to empower its students through a quality education and aim to privilege them with opportunities and resources they would not have otherwise. We teach them to value and prioritize education, and understand it as the gateway to a prosperous future. By exposing our students to a broader scope of learning, giving them longer days, tougher curriculum and more discipline than the average Paraguayan student, the effects are noticeable, as our students quickly grow into confident and intelligent young adults.

Life for our students is not easy, as many have grown up in some of the most humble backgrounds imaginable. Most come from houses without water, electricity or even floors and many walk more than a half hour to get to school in the morning. But once at school, they commit themselves with enthusiasm to their rigorous and challenging academic load, with noble aspirations of someday being able to give back to their community. They understand the meaning of hard work and dedication and truly are an inspiration and a lesson in not taking anything for granted. As director, along with the teachers and with the help of Team Tobati, we do everything in our power to give these students the tools to achieve their goals.

Not only are our students proud of themselves, but being a student at the Macchi School brings pride to their families as well, who see  their child’s quality education as a chance for opportunities that they themselves never had. I’m reminded of one of our students whose humble home consists of not much more than one bedroom where he shares a bed with three of his siblings. But his family made sure to build him a desk outside to ensure their son had a place to sit and study.

I can confidently say that the Macchi School changes lives, and I am privileged to be a part of such a successful project. I really look forward to watching our students, and our school, grow and develop. Please feel free to contact me at Alexamillinger@gmail.com  with any questions or to learn more about the Macchi School.

Sincerely,

Alexa Millinger