August 2021 Update
8/31/21
Dear Friends of Amor y Esperanza,
As August winds down and the summer comes to an end, we look forward to a new school year for our students in the States, many of whom have returned to school in person for the first time in months, and for our students in Quito, who will be heading back to school soon. Teachers, students, and parents have been under particular stress over the last eighteen months and continue to face complex challenges day in and day out. We trust God with their daily struggles and joys, and pray for protection, energy, and, perhaps above all, health as many schools navigate the ongoing pandemic and reopen fully in person this fall.
CLASSES BEGIN
We are thrilled that the school has been approved to start school virtually in September and in person in October. While this can of course change we are hopeful and encouraged by the return of students. We are especially celebrating 75 new students this year. When added to the expected 80-90% returning students enrollments sits near 250.
Regarding Covid, cases continue to be on the rise in Ecuador, and there are some areas of the country that are shut down. Meanwhile, Pancho, Pitty, and their team of dedicated staff are diligently developing plans to accommodate virtual, in person, and hybrid learning for their students. Please keep them in your prayers on this matter, that students would have access to education this fall!
NEW AND FAMILIAR FACES OFFER EXPERTISE
Pancho and Pitty have hired a new pedagogic director, Maria Inez Veloz, who taught at AyE for about nine years prior to leaving to teach in some other very good schools. She has now returned and is working with the teachers. Pancho and Pitty are very positive about this director and what she can bring to the table. Maria's daughter, Sarita, attended AyE, and she will now be helping with social media and with the school website from Quito.
Long time friend of Amor y Esperanza, Janet Cruz, has met with Pancho and Pitty and several teachers for a strategic planning workshop. The team is building out a five year plan required by the education ministry including details of vision, mission, and strategy. This month the team will meet again to complete and adopt the plan!
Janet has in addition also provided invaluable guidance for implementing next steps. In a recent meeting Janet connected auditors to the local board and accountant to make suggestions regarding finances. One encouraging recommendation is connections to sources of local funding upon the adoption of the 5 year plan. We are deeply grateful for the wisdom, guidance, and connections Janet has facilitated at AyE. We praise God for this friendship and know the work done know will bear fruit for the next 5 years and beyond!
HELP US BRIDGE THE GAP
Thanks to those who have contributed to our Bridge the Gap campaign throughout this year! Our September goal for supporting the school launch this new year in a solid place is $9,300. Please help us bridge the gap resulting from COVID related expenses in Ecuador today! Gifts can be made via our website: https://loveandhopefoundation.me/give.
As we mentioned in our last newsletter, we would like to reiterate that we have a few open spots on our board currently, and if you or someone you know would be interested in serving with us we’d love to hear from you.
We are so thankful for you every day. Please stay in touch with us via social media and continue journeying with us in prayer.
In Christ,
The Board of Love and Hope Foundation
