GuateMaya Alliance

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Charlottesville, VA
GuateMaya Alliance

To support the power and capacity of Guatemalan youth to foster participatory pathways to community well-being.

In 1999, Beth Neville Evans, founder of the Ixtatan Foundation, visited San Mateo Ixtatan for the first time on behalf of a North American nonprofit organization attempting to help a resident of the town with a life-threatening medical condition. She discovered a town that was a microcosm, high in the Guatemalan mountains where the residents spoke a unique language, Chuj. This language is the predominate tongue used by approximately 64,000 Mayans, the majority of them residing in San Mateo Ixtatan. As one of the many indigenous groups of Mayans in Guatemala, these people find themselves among the lowest on the socio-economic ladder, lacking in many basic services and with few opportunities to improve their situation. This was starkly evidenced by the lack of any high school education facility in the entire region. As a result of her visit and ongoing conversations with the community leaders in San Mateo Ixtatan, Beth Neville created the Ixtatan Foundation, a 501(c) 3 nonprofit Ixtatán Foundation, Inc. incorporated in January of 2001, with the expressed goal of creating the first high school in the town. The school opened its doors in January 2005 with 11 students for high school and 21 in middle school and saw its first graduating class three years later when nine students received high school diplomas. Seven years on, the school’s most recent graduating class saw 31 students receive high school diplomas, all of whom plan to go on to higher education. Our student body is 280 strong and we have graduates attending, or recently graduated from the following universities: Universidad Rafael Landivar, Universidad del Valle de Guatemala, Universidad del Valle de México, Universidad Panamericana de Guatemala, Escuela Latinoamericana de Medicina (ELAM). Initially based solely in Charlottesville, Virginia, the Ixtatan Foundation added a Guatemalan Office in mid-2012 under the stewardship of Executive Director, Elias Alonzo, who had won a scholarship from the Ixtatan Foundation to attend Toccoa Falls College from 2005 to 2008. While the formation of the high school was the impetus for the formation of the Foundation, education in general is the primary goal. In 2012 the curriculum was adapted to reflect Project Based Learning philosophy. The school oversees a working farm, a bakery, carpentry shop, an Internet café and many other workshops; all of which return income to the school as well as providing real world experience for the students.

12/12/2025

El 10 de diciembre de 2025, compartimos los resultados de nuestro trabajo realizado durante el año con la Dirección Departamental de Educación. Creemos que la coordinación y la comunicación en la implementación de proyectos a favor de la educación de la niñez y de la juventud es importante porque permite un mayor alcance e impacto. En esta actividad participó el Director Departamental de Educación, Msc. Romeo Montejo Díaz, el Subdirector Técnico Pedagógico Bilingüe Intercultural, Lic. Mario Margarito López y otras autoridades de la dependencia. Como datos globales, se beneficiaron a más de 1300 personas en distintas comunidades donde los proyectos y actividades que fueron implementados. Agradecemos el respaldo y la buena voluntad de trabar de manera coordinada y mejorar la calidad educativa en Huehuetenango.
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On December 10, 2025, we shared the results of our work conducted throughout the year with the Departmental Direction of Education. We believe that coordination and communication in implementing projects for the benefit of children and youth education is important because it allows for greater reach and impact. The participants in this activity included the Departmental Director of Education, MSc. Romeo Montejo Díaz, the Deputy Director of Bilingual Intercultural Technical Pedagogy, Lic. Mario Margarito López, and other authorities from the Departmental Direction.

As a general overview, more than 1,300 people in different communities where the projects and activities were implemented benefited. We are grateful for the support and the goodwill to work in a coordinated way in order to improve the quality of education in Huehuetenango.

12/08/2025

El pasado 28 de noviembre, se llevó a cabo el cierre de actividades del proyecto “Formación de Facilitadores sobre la Implementación de la Metodología Aprendizaje Basado en Proyectos -ABP-” que se desarrolló con 4 facilitadores de la Escuela Oficial Rural Mixta de la Aldea El Orégano, Huehuetenango que busca mejorar la calidad de educación de los niños, con la aprobación y respaldo de la DIDEDUC y de la Comisionada Temporal en Administración Educativa (CTAE) del Distrito Escolar 13-01-003.
Se desarrollaron 13 talleres presenciales de 03 horas cada uno, con un total de 39 horas efectivas de formación, donde de desarrollaron temas como trabajo en equipo, liderazgo, comunicación, toma de decisiones, paradigma del ABP, El CNB y sus ejes temáticos, tipos de investigación, investigación documental y de campo. Agradecemos a nuestros aliado en el implementación de este proyectos, principalmente los COCODE, OPF de Oregano y la municipalidad de la ciudad de Huehuetenango.

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On November 28th, the closing activities of the project “Training of Facilitators on the Implementation of the Project-Based Learning (PBL) Methodology” with 4 facilitaros from the El Oregano Community School in Huehuetenango, which seeks to improve the quality of children’s education, with the approval and support of the DIDEDUC (Departmental Direction of Education) and the Temporary Commissioner for Educational Administration (CTAE) of School District 13-01-003.

13 in-person workshops of three hours each were held, totaling 39 hours of effective training. Topics covered included teamwork, leadership, communication, decision-making, the PBL paradigm, the National Curriculum Framework (CNB) and its thematic axes, types of research, and documentary and field research. We thank our partners in the implementation of this project, especially the Community Development Councils (COCODEs), the Community Farming Organizations (OPF) of Oregano, and the municipality of Huehuetenango.

12/05/2025

, &
On November 27, a milestone of growth, learning, and ambition was celebrated in Huehuetenango as 34 students from the Access Program, 26 from EAGLES, and 16 from the SEAL Program completed a rigorous two-year educational journey that developed their skills, character, and vision for the future, thanks to the US Embassy Guatemala for sponsoring and supporting these programs.

Throughout these two years, Access and EAGLES students strengthened their 21st-century skills, entrepreneurship skills, and knowledge of American culture, while embracing challenges that fostered teamwork, leadership, and personal growth. Their projects and initiatives reflect not only what they learned, but also who they are becoming: leaders committed to innovation, collaboration, and positive change.

Meanwhile, the SEAL Program prepared future English teachers in Huehuetenango, equipping them with the ability to plan and teach lessons in reading, listening, grammar, vocabulary, and writing. Their commitment to education represents a meaningful investment in the future of their communities, where high-quality English teaching remains critical for academic, social, and professional opportunities.

This achievement marks more than the end of a cycle; it opens doors to new paths, new challenges, and new opportunities built on perseverance, talent, and a shared commitment to education.

GuateMaya Alliance reaffirms its belief that education is a powerful force capable of transforming lives and creating stronger futures for the youth of Huehuetenango.

Congratulations to all 76 graduates; your journey continues, and your impact is just beginning. A special recognition to teachers and admin staff for their dedication and engagement.
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El 27 de noviembre se celebró en Huehuetenango un hito de crecimiento, aprendizaje y ambición, cuando 34 estudiantes del Programa Access, 26 de EAGLES y 16 del Programa SEAL completaron un riguroso proceso educativo de dos años que fortaleció sus habilidades, carácter y visión de futuro. Gracias a la US Embassy Guatemala por patrocinar y apoyar estos programas.

Durante estos dos años, los estudiantes de Access e EAGLES fortalecieron sus habilidades del siglo XXI, competencias emprendedoras y conocimiento de la cultura estadounidense, al mismo tiempo que enfrentaron desafíos que promovieron el trabajo en equipo, el liderazgo y el crecimiento personal. Sus proyectos e iniciativas reflejan no solo lo que aprendieron, sino también en quiénes se están convirtiendo: líderes comprometidos con la innovación, la colaboración y el cambio positivo.

Por su parte, el Programa SEAL formó a futuros docentes de inglés en Huehuetenango, equipándolos con la capacidad de planificar y enseñar lecciones en lectura, escucha, gramática, vocabulario y escritura. Su compromiso con la educación representa una inversión significativa en el futuro de sus comunidades, donde la enseñanza del inglés de alta calidad es esencial para las oportunidades académicas, sociales y profesionales.

Este logro representa más que el fin de un ciclo; abre puertas a nuevos caminos, desafíos y oportunidades construidos sobre la perseverancia, el talento y un compromiso compartido con la educación.

GuateMaya Alliance reafirma su convicción de que la educación es una fuerza poderosa capaz de transformar vidas y crear futuros más fuertes para la juventud de Huehuetenango.

Felicitaciones a los 76 graduados; su camino continúa y su impacto apenas comienza. Un reconocimiento especial a los docentes y al personal por su dedicación y compromiso.

12/03/2025

On November 21, the BEAR Program graduation ceremony was held with parents, students, special guests, and teachers, creating a moment filled with pride and hope for the entire community. Congratulations to the 91 beneficiaries for their dedication, courage, and resilience throughout the process. Although it was a brief period, it was rich in meaningful learning, challenges that strengthened their character, and projects that enhanced their teamwork, leadership, communication skills, and English. This achievement represents not only the closing of a chapter but also the beginning of new opportunities made possible through their consistent effort.

GuateMaya Alliance reaffirms its belief that education is a powerful force capable of transforming lives and paving the way for stronger personal and professional development among youth in Huehuetenango. Special appreciation is extended to the partner institutions like the US Embassy, INMAC, Liceo Ciencias Comerciales, Fe y Alegría, and INEBAC for sharing this vision and serving as essential pillars throughout the process.
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El 21 de noviembre se celebró la ceremonia de graduación del Programa BEAR junto a padres de familia, estudiantes, invitados especiales y maestros, en un evento que llenó de orgullo y esperanza a toda la comunidad. Felicitaciones a los 91 beneficiarios por su dedicación, valentía y resiliencia a lo largo del proceso. Aunque fue un periodo breve, estuvo lleno de aprendizajes significativos, retos que fortalecieron su carácter y proyectos que impulsaron su trabajo en equipo, liderazgo, habilidades comunicativas e inglés. Este logro simboliza no solo el cierre de una etapa, sino el inicio de nuevas oportunidades que emergen gracias a su esfuerzo constante.

GuateMaya Alliance reafirma su convicción de que la educación es una fuerza capaz de transformar vidas y abrir caminos hacia un desarrollo personal y profesional más sólido para la juventud huehueteca. Se extiende un agradecimiento especial a las instituciones aliadas como US Embassy Guatemala, INMAC, Liceo Ciencias Comerciales, Fe y Alegría e INEBAC por compartir esta visión y ser pilares fundamentales en este proceso.

12/03/2025

El pasado 24 de noviembre de 2025 tuvimos una jornada de reflexión con profesores sobre el proceso de formación sobre Aprendizaje Basado en Proyectos -ABP- y sobre la implementación del ABP en sus escuelas, beneficiando a 267 estudiantes del nivel primario y básico de San Mateo Ixtatán. ABP es un modelo y metodología de aprendizaje donde los estudiantes son el centro del proceso y aprenden cosas utiles para la vida real.

Es un grupo de 8 profesores quienes participaron activamente en 9 talleres presenciales de formación con un total de 27 horas efectivas. Los talleres se convirtieron en un espacio para el intercambio de ideas y experiencias educativas, lo que generó un ambiente de aprendizaje colaborativo, lo que fortalecieron sus capacidades y habilidades pedagógicas, así como sus habilidades de trabajo en equipo, liderazgo, comunicación efectiva, negociación y toma de decisiones. Agradecemos a las autoridades de la Coordinación Distrital Smi Huehuetenango y de la Dirección Departamental de Educación por apoyar estas iniciativas a favor de la educación de la niñez y juventud.
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Last November 24, 2025, we held a day of reflection with facilitators regarding the training process on Project-Based Learning (PBL) and the implementation of PBL in their schools, benefiting 267 elementary and middle school level students from San Mateo Ixtatán. PBL is a learning model and methodology student-centered, and they learn useful things for real life.

This was a group of 8 teachers who actively participated in 9 in-person training workshops with a total of 27 effective hours. The workshops became a space for the exchange of ideas and educational experiences, generating an environment of collaborative learning that strengthened their pedagogical capacities and skills, as well as their skills in teamwork, leadership, effective communication, negotiation, and decision-making. We thank the authorities of the District and Departmental Coordination for supporting these initiatives in favor of the education of children and youth.

12/01/2025

Más de 70 niñas y niños de 5 escuelas de San Mateo Ixtatán, terminaron satisfactoriamente el club de lectura. Durante el año desarrollaron más de 300 horas efectivas de sesiones de lectura y de aprendizaje, con énfasis en Derechos Humanos, Cuidado del Medio Ambiente y Educacion Financiera. Para el desarrollo adecuado de las actividades se entregaron materiales educativos y libros especializados en las areas de formación. Agradecemos a las autoridades educativas locales y departamentales por apoyar el desarrollo este proyecto, así como el acompañamiento activo de los padres de familia. Seguiremos trabajando para crear oportunidades de desarrollo a través de la educación.
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More than 70 children from 5 schools in San Mateo Ixtatán successfully completed the reading club project. During the year, they completed more than 300 effective hours of reading and learning sessions, with an emphasis on Human Rights, Environmental Care, and Financial Literacy. For the adequate development of the activities, educational materials and specialized books in the areas of training were provided. We thank the local and departmental educational authorities for supporting the development of this project, as well as the active accompaniment of the parents. We will continue working to create opportunities for development through education.

11/18/2025

Congratulation Huehuetenango City!

10/31/2025

Join us to celebrate fall, fellowship and feasting at the home of our founder, Beth Neville Evans. Click here to confirm your attendance: https://acesse.one/RQZ9C

10/30/2025

From October 13th to 16th, a delegation from Charlottesville, VA 🇺🇸 visited Huehuetenango city, Guatemala to formalize the sister city to strengthen the bonds of friendship, mutual understanding, and collaboration for the development of our communities. Some highlights of the visit:
-The mayor Cano from Huehue and the mayor Wade from Charlottesville, inaugurated the "Charlottesville Street" in Huehuetenango! A beautiful permanent symbol of their union.
-The delegation visited a school in the village of El Orégano, where GuateMaya Alliance implements educational projects.
-Delegation explored Guatemala's rich culture and natural beauty, such as the Zaculew archaeological site, the Huehue Traditional Costume Museum, the Lake Atitlan, and the Antigua Guatemala.

GuateMaya Alliance is deeply committed to continuing to promote and support the educational and cultural projects that stem from this valuable partnership. Let's keep building bridges!

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Del 13 al 16 de octubre de 2025, una delegación de la Ciudad de Charlottesville, VA visitó la ciudad de Huehuetenango para formalizar la hermandad y fortalecer lazos de amistad, entendimiento mutuo y colaboración que contribuya al desarrollo de nuestras comunidades. Momentos destacados de la visita:
- El alcalde Cano de Huehue y Wade de Charlottesville, inauguraron la "Calle Charlottesville" en Huehuetenango. Un hermoso recordatorio de la unión de ambas ciudades.
- La delegación visitó una escuela en la aldea El Orégano, donde GuateMaya Alliance implementa proyectos educativos.
- La delegación exploró la rica cultura y belleza natural de Guatemala, como el sitio arqueológico Zaculew, el Museo de Trajes Típicos de Huehue, el i Lago de Atitlán y la Antigua Guatemala.

GuateMaya Alliance se siente profundamente comprometida para seguir promoviendo y apoyando los proyectos educativos y culturales que nazcan de esta hermandad. ¡Sigamos construyendo puentes!

10/30/2025

and Motivational Workshop

Last week, the Access and EAGLES programs joined forces to host a 2 hour motivational workshop for BEAR students to keep moving forward, step out of their comfort zone, and be open to meeting new people. Students enjoyed a series of outdoor activities from yarn circles and group races to Jenga challenges and tower-building games, to strengthen teamwork, leadership, problem-solving, and to build new friendships. Access and EAGLES students shared their personal stories, how the programs have helped them grow, develop skills, and make a difference in their communities. BEAR students reflected on their own journey and the possibilities that continuing with the Access program can bring.

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¡Taller Motivacional & !
La semana pasada, los programas Access y EAGLES unieron fuerzas para ofrecer un taller motivacional de dos horas a los estudiantes de BEAR, con el objetivo de impulsarlos a seguir adelante, salir de su zona de confort y estar abiertos a conocer gente nueva. Los estudiantes disfrutaron de diversas actividades al aire libre, desde círculos de tejido y carreras grupales hasta desafíos de Jenga y juegos de construcción de torres, para fortalecer el trabajo en equipo, el liderazgo, la resolución de problemas y forjar nuevas amistades. Los estudiantes de Access e EAGLES compartieron sus historias personales y cómo los programas les han ayudado a crecer, desarrollar habilidades y marcar la diferencia en sus comunidades. Los estudiantes de BEAR reflexionaron sobre su propia trayectoria y las posibilidades que les ofrece continuar con el programa Access.

10/29/2025

Meet our main speaker in our annual gathering this Saturday at the home of John Borden Evans.
Click here to confirm your attendance: https://acesse.one/RQZ9C

10/28/2025

Local Cville supporters. Remember to stop by at our annual gathering this Saturday at the home of sign up in the link below to let us know you're coming.

Click here to confirme your attendance: https://acesse.one/RQZ9C

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Charlottesville, VA
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+50278848287

Website

https://guatemayalliance.org/

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