Supporting Dreams: Kita and Her Great Work in Paso de Oscares
María Luisa Gómez, o “Kita”, como la llaman todos, es directora de la Escuela N° 958 y el jardín N° 704 de Paso de los Oscares. Además de dirigir ambas instituciones, Kita enseña a los niños de primer y segundo grado, dedicando cada día a guiar a sus 42 estudiantes de primaria y 15 de jardín en su camino educativo. La realidad de sus alumnos es recurrente en la zona: la mayoría de ellos viajan a dedo, ya que los medios de transporte son limitados, y muchos llegan incluso antes que las docentes. Para ellos, la escuela es un espacio no sólo de aprendizaje, sino también de encuentro, amistad y juego.
However, daily life is not easy. Many children do not have access to adequate meals at home; sometimes, only mate accompanies them. Thanks to the Foundation’s support, the school cafeteria has become a haven where they can enjoy a hot meal, making a big difference in their lives. The school’s cooperative also plays a fundamental role in this effort, supporting through raffles and any actions they can take to ensure there is always lunch available.
Kita shares the transformative impact of the technology workshops offered by the Foundation. Throughout the year, the students work with Franco, their IT teacher, who guides them into the world of computing. Kita proudly observes how first graders already recognize their own folders on the computer and write small texts, while seventh graders are capable of assisting her with digital tasks. Despite the challenges, technology has opened unexpected doors and sparked a curiosity for learning that Kita nurtures with dedication.
Additionally, Kita tells us how the work of the Health Team has been essential support for the community. Thanks to their intervention, a case of Chagas disease was recently detected in one of the students, who is now receiving treatment. This joint effort highlights the value of a comprehensive approach to the children’s health, as for many families, accessing medical services in Sumampa, the nearest city, presents both economic and logistical challenges.
Each of these challenges underscores the reality faced by the community and the positive impact of the collaboration between Kita, her team, and the Foundation. Thank you, Kita, for your dedication and for making your school a place where dreams grow, nurtured by hope and opportunities.