Zaculeu (phase II)

In the rural community of Zaculeu, Tecpán, access to continued education beyond primary school is extremely limited. Although students complete their early years of schooling, roughly 92% are unable to pursue further education due to a lack of local infrastructure. Many are left with few options—some migrate abroad in search of opportunity, while others begin working alongside their families in agriculture.

The community understands that education is key to improving future prospects. With this in mind, local leaders, organized through the COCODE, have been working toward the creation of a formal educational center that can offer middle school-level education right within their community.

However, the absence of proper classroom space has been a significant barrier. Despite efforts to gain support through public channels, the community was unable to secure the resources needed to expand their school facilities.

When Hug It Forward learned of the situation, we saw an opportunity to support Zaculeu in making their vision a reality. By partnering with the community, we helped build new bottle classrooms that provided the space needed to launch their middle school program.

This project brings not only physical infrastructure but renewed hope for local youth to continue their education and build brighter futures. Hug It Forward is proud to support the Zaculeu community and all those working to expand educational access in Guatemala.

Middle School
Population (approximately): 600
Construction Started: April 29, 2024
Classrooms: 2
Bottle School: 148