By Mariano Chica | CEO
As part of the project Provide Quality Education to 5,000 Youth in Panama, a key milestone was achieved through the implementation of the Summer Institute, the initial training phase for new program participants. This stage represents the first and foundational step for emerging educational leaders as they enter the organization’s two-year leadership and teaching program.
A total of 31 new participants successfully completed the initial training. The Summer Institute is designed as an intensive preparation process that equips participants with the core competencies, mindset, and tools required to effectively enter classrooms under the program’s educational model. By establishing a strong foundation at this early stage, the training plays a critical role in ensuring consistency, quality, and long-term impact throughout the full two-year experience.
The Summer Institute took place over three weeks and was delivered in a hybrid format, combining in-person and virtual learning experiences. The training integrated two key components. First, participants engaged in a structured theoretical formation focused on pedagogy, leadership, professionalism, and socioemotional development. Second, the program included a practical component that allowed participants to apply their learning directly with students in real educational settings.
Through this practical experience, the Summer Institute also directly benefited approximately 200 students from public schools in Panama, who participated in learning activities facilitated by the new program participants under guided supervision. This dual-impact approach strengthened participants’ confidence and instructional skills while simultaneously expanding access to meaningful learning experiences for students.
Throughout the training, participants demonstrated growth in what the program defines as core professionalism competencies, as outlined in its leadership rubric, as well as in key socioemotional skills essential for effective teaching and leadership. While the training was intentionally demanding, participants consistently described the experience as deeply purposeful. Many reported feeling reconnected to their motivation for working in education and more prepared to face the challenges of the classroom with clarity and commitment.
This initial training phase successfully consolidated the foundations required for participants to transition into their teaching roles within the program’s model. Following the Summer Institute, participants will now begin their in-classroom experience, supported by ongoing, personalized coaching and accompaniment to ensure continuous growth and impact.
The completion of the Summer Institute marks a critical step forward in strengthening educational leadership and advancing quality education for youth in Panama.
By Mariano Chica | CEO
By Mariano Chica | CEO
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