From February through July 2025, School the World hosted our largest and most diverse service learning season ever. Eight groups of students and professionals traveled to Central America, working alongside parents, teachers, and local leaders in ten communities. Together, they built classrooms, playgrounds, and connections that will last a lifetime.
This season was full of milestones:
61 schools and communities represented, along with 5 companies
Participants from 10 U.S. states and 5 countries abroad
20% return participants—evidence of lasting impact and connection
Participants didn’t just travel—they joined something bigger. They fundraised, prepared, and then rolled up their sleeves, contributing both resources and effort. Many raised the full cost of their trip, demonstrating deep commitment and ownership of the experience.
For many organizations, service learning can mean a short-term project. At School the World, it’s different. Every trip is part of a five-year partnership with each community we serve. That means the classrooms, playgrounds, and other projects our participants help build are only one part of a larger commitment that includes:
Building safe, vibrant schools
Training teachers in evidence-based methods
Empowering parents to be their child’s first educator
Stocking libraries with books to foster a love of reading
This community-first approach ensures that projects are not one-time events but stepping stones toward lasting educational transformation. Families contribute land, labor, and resources; mayors co-invest with us; and our local staff guide and support every step. The result? Schools that thrive long after the trip ends.
Our participants come away with more than memories. They develop empathy, perspective, and a deeper understanding of the importance of education in shaping futures. As one recent study with the University del Valle de Guatemala confirmed, these trips don’t just benefit participants—local children, families, and communities gain strength and momentum too.
In a time when U.S. aid is shrinking and fewer students are studying abroad, the need to develop global citizens who value education and justice is more critical than ever. School the World provides exactly that opportunity.
The 2025 season has proven that this program is growing stronger each year. With more schools, more communities, and more diverse participation than ever before, we’re ready to welcome even more students, schools, and companies in 2026.
If you’re looking for a service learning experience that combines high-quality organization, real community partnership, and transformative impact, School the World is ready to welcome you.
Join us in 2026. Together, we can build more classrooms, more playgrounds, and more futures.
Learn more about our Service Learning Programs.