The typical school year runs from January through October. Many Guatemalans do not attend school, but instead work at a young age to help sustain their families (per capita income is $3,900 compared to $48,100 in the U.S.).
The educational structure is in need of an overhaul as schools often don't have enough supplies to give children and some don't even have chairs and desks. Low teacher salaries contribute to a shortage of teachers. Only 2% of Guatemalans attend universities, while 70% of high school graduates in the U.S. go on to attend college.
 With this background, educational success can be very difficult. However, WR Child Sponsorship now serves grade school and junior high children in ten Christian schools.
Most of these schools only offer education through the sixth grade, but there has been a recent movement to add more junior high schools and extend a child's educational opportunity through ninth grade.
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 After a recent field trip by a few of our Child Sponsorship Committee members, the following observations were shared: "Teaching and reinforcing the Christian walk is evident. Each school is seeking to integrate Christ and devotions into their daily educational program."
At the Community of Faith school, the Director asked one of our committee members to have a prayer in each classroom. The students were very attentive during prayer time, confirming that students are being taught to respect the Lord. She thanked us many times for our financial and prayer support.
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 Sponsors are needed for the children of Guatemala. We invite you to browse through our website site to learn more about the program.
There are many children whose lives are being enriched through the generous giving of their sponsors. We would appreciate hearing from you if you have an interest in being a sponsor. Click here.
If you have questions or suggestions for improvement, please let us know. Click here.
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Guatemala is one of the most populous, and poorest countries in Central America. Social development indicators, such as infant mortality, chronic child malnutrition and illiteracy are among the worst in the region. Guatemala exhibits one of the most unequal income distributions in the hemisphere; nearly two-thirds of its 15 million people live on less than $2 per day, with many involved in subsistence agriculture.
Located in one of Guatemala City's poorest areas, the school has an agreement with a local social organization to admit students whose parents are scavengers in the city dump. Even with a relatively low tuition, parents struggle to pay it. When funds are low, teachers are paid first and then directors, if money is available.