Scholarship Program

Most Guatemalan families struggle to afford the cost of registration fees, school uniforms, books and school supplies. Because of this, only small percentages of children are able to study in Basico (Jr HS), and even fewer make it to Diversificado (High School). Our scholarship program addresses this problem, as well as encouraging strong study habits and community service.

Books and Wings Scholarship Program - 2010

Scholarship students are recommended by their 6th grade teachers and principals, and must meet the following criteria:

- Good grades

- Financial need

- May not be related to teachers or administrators

In addition to maintaining their grades, scholarship students must work in the library as aides a half day a week (twice a week for students entering 1st year Basico), and must write their sponsors periodically. We try to maintain gender balance in the scholarship program.

In return, the students receive a beginning of the school year stipend to pay for their school fees, a monthly stipend, a reference book or textbook each year, access to an after-school English class with a university-trained teacher (Tiquisate), occasional field trips, and supplementary help as needed. This may take the form of food-baskets, tutoring, medical services, etc. Students living out of town receive extra money to pay for their transportation.

Our scholarship program is focused on Tiquisate, with small pilot programs in Rio Bravo and Chicacao. For most of these kids, their scholarship is the difference between being able to stay in school and entering the labor force at an early age to do menial work at low pay for the rest of their lives. We’re proud to say that the majority of our scholarship students are doing very well in school!

Sponsorship costs-2010 (May vary according to student needs and circumstances):

Basico (Junior High School) - $250

Diversificado (High School) - $500

University - Cost depends on student needs, and course and place of studies