Education

Welcome to the Education branch of the Oaxaca Foundation for Education & the Arts (OFEA). Our mission is to empower the children and youth of Oaxaca through education, providing them with the tools and resources they need to succeed academically and personally. We believe that education is the foundation for a brighter future, and we are committed to making quality education accessible to all.

Our Vision

At OFEA, we envision a world where every child has the opportunity to learn, grow, and achieve their full potential. Our programs are designed to address the unique educational needs of the children in San Francisco Tutla and surrounding areas, fostering a love of learning and a deep appreciation for their cultural heritage. By connecting volunteers and educators with local communities, we aim to create a supportive and enriching educational environment.

Programs & Opportunities

Tutoring and Mentorship

Our tutoring and mentorship programs provide personalized academic support to children in San Francisco Tutla. Volunteers work one-on-one or in small groups with work one-on-one or in small groups with students, helping them with homework, improving their literacy and numerical skills, and providing guidance and encouragement. Working side by side with the children, participants teach children about the importance of good nutrition, how to compost, create home gardens, and simple cooking skills. Mentors also serve as positive role models, inspiring students to pursue their dreams and stay committed to their education.

Community Learning Centers

Our community learning centers serve as hubs for education and community engagement. These centers offer a safe and supportive space for children to study, access educational materials, and participate in after-school programs. Volunteers and community members are encouraged to contribute their skills and knowledge, creating a vibrant learning community.

We offer a variety of enrichment programs that complement the traditional school curriculum. These programs include arts and crafts, music, sports, and science projects, designed to stimulate creativity and critical thinking. By exposing students to a broad range of subjects and activities, we help them discover their interests and talents.

Enrichment Programs
three children sitting on grass
three children sitting on grass
woman in gray sweater sitting beside woman in gray sweater
woman in gray sweater sitting beside woman in gray sweater

Get Involved

There are many ways to get involved with OFEA's Education programs and make a difference in the lives of Oaxacan children:

a little girl sitting at a table with a book
a little girl sitting at a table with a book
Contribute Financially

Your financial contributions help us provide essential resources and support to students and schools. Every donation, no matter how small, helps us continue our mission.

Partner

Collaborate with us to expand our educational initiatives. Whether you are a school, organization, or individual, your partnership can help us reach more students and communities.

Volunteer

Share your time and skills by volunteering as a tutor, mentor, or program facilitator. Your involvement can have a lasting impact on a child's educational journey.

The children of San Francisco Tutla and nearby pueblos are very economically disadvantaged. Many live in huts made of metal sheets, have no indoor plumbing and few, if any toys. School supplies are difficult for them to purchase. Their list of needs is extensive. Gently used items are greatly welcome. You can click on the button below to see some of their needs. If you can contribute, Debra makes regular trips to the US and can bring back donated items. Contact her through our contact form to make plans arrangements.

Contribute Needed Items

Frequently asked questions

How many community service hours can my student receive?

For 1 week, students receive a minimum of 20m hours of service hours. If a student desires more and is willing to forgo the cultural excursions, he/she/they can be accommodated. Before and during the trip, they can receive more in preparing for service.

Will students be supervised?

Yes, English speaking adults will supervise the students. They will live and work in the beautiful compound. When out on excursions, Debra and Victor will accompany them.

What will my student do for service?

Students will focus on their individual strengths, skills, and abilities. They can work with children on: art, sports including swimming in a solar heated, salt water pool, robotics, Legos construction, sewing, cooking easy foods, writing, reading, drawing, singing, music (we have two pianos and two guitars and can acquire others as needed), etc., Basically, anything the student is good at, the local children can and need to learn.

Is Oaxaca safe?

Yes. Conde Nast, the travel magazine, and the NCB Today Show both recently ranked Oaxaca as the #1 tourist destination in the world. Oaxaca has the same types of crimes that any city does—telephone snatching, snatching of cash leaving an ATM, and other small crimes of convenience.

How can I contact you?

You can reach us by phone, email address, or using our contact form below. We are always happy to answer your questions.

Are there drugs in Oaxaca?

Like everywhere in the world, Oaxaca has its share of drugs. Marijuana is not legal nor easily available. Students are not permitted to have or use non-prescription drugs or alcohol and will be returned home if found in possession of them.

Join Us

At OFEA, we are passionate about education and its transformative power. By joining our Education programs, you become part of a community dedicated to creating opportunities and improving the lives of Oaxacan children. Together, we can build a brighter future, one student at a time.

For more information on how to get involved, please contact us. We look forward to welcoming you to our educational community!

Phone US

(+1) 909 456 5876

Phone MX

(+52) 951 224 261222

Email