sustainable education | One Two... Tree

22 December, 2025 In Interviews, News

2025 in Review: Celebrating the Impact of One, Two…Tree!

As we close out 2025, we at One, Two…Tree! find ourselves filled with deep gratitude. This year has been one of growth and learning, community connection, and meaningful educational impact across Santiago Atitlán. With the support of our volunteers, local partners, donors, and community members, we have continued to expand access to English education, opening new pathways for children, youth, and adults to learn, dream, and take steps toward brighter futures.

Our Education Impact in Santiago Atitlán in 2025

In this final blog of the year (and video below!), we’re excited to share key highlights, reflect on our journey, and celebrate the incredible people who made our 2025 achievements possible.

Volunteer Impact in 2025: 20 People, One Shared Purpose

At the heart of One Two Tree is a simple belief: education grows when people come together. This year, we welcomed 20 international and local volunteers who dedicated their time, skills, and hearts to our mission. With their energy and commitment, we were able to roll out our English programs throughout 2025 and deepen our impact in the community of Santiago Atitlán.

Our volunteers brought creativity to lesson plans, patience to the classroom, and compassion to every interaction. Their diverse perspectives enriched our programs, and their enthusiasm inspired students to learn with confidence.

These volunteer success stories fuel our mission year after year, reminding us that when individuals step forward to serve, whole communities benefit. Whether teaching their first class, hosting a workshop, or helping repaint our Learning Centre, each volunteer left a meaningful mark.

Expanding Access to English Education: 175 Students at Our Learning Centre

Our Learning Centre was busier than ever in 2025. Across 11 programs and two full semesters, we worked with 175 children, teens, and adults, offering beginner to intermediate English classes, conversation practice, exam preparation support, and community workshops.

This year, we focused on strengthening learning outcomes by implementing improved curricula, fostering student engagement through interactive activities, and integrating the needs of our students into lessons. Thanks to the dedication of our Volunteer and Project Coordinator, Candy, and volunteers, our Learning Centre continues to be a welcoming, supportive space where learners of all ages build language skills, and confidence in their language abilities.

From shy young learners speaking their first English words, to adult learners taking the brave plunge to start their English language journey, every student reminded us why accessible education matters.

Graduation day for teen and adult students at our Learning Centre!

Reaching 240 Students in Public Schools: Strengthening English Education at Scale

In partnership with four public schools in Santiago Atitlán, we delivered English lessons to nearly 240 children in grades 4, 5, and 6 throughout the academic year. These school partnerships remain a cornerstone of our model, as this helps to ensure that students in the local public system receive consistent and high-quality English instruction.

Teachers shared inspiring stories of students becoming more participatory, more curious, and more motivated to continue learning English. By supporting schools directly, we help reduce educational gaps and empower young learners to build skills that prepare them for future academic and professional opportunities.

This initiative continues to be one of our most impactful programs, one we aim to strengthen even further in 2026.

Deepening Community Connections in Santiago Atitlán

One, Two…Tree! has been delivering English education projects in Santiago Atitlán for almost ten years. Over this time, we have come to understand how essential working alongside the local culture and community is to the success of our education programs. In 2025, we continued to explore ways to deepen our connections within and across the community.

Building Community Through Language: Intercambio Sessions With Local Partners

This year also saw the return of our community-favourite intercambio language exchange sessions, thanks to the generosity of Le Antigua and SpaceCoffee, two incredible local businesses who hosted the events. These evenings brought together locals, volunteers, and travellers for relaxed Spanish–English exchanges that celebrated culture, communication, and connection.

Community spaces like these deepen our understanding of the world and remind us how powerful language is in bridging cultures. We’re grateful to our local partners for believing in the value of these gatherings.

Celebrating Culture and Community Life in Santiago Atitlán

2025 was not only a year of academic learning, but also a year of full community participation.

We proudly supported students during the annual sports Olympiad, cheering them on as they represented their schools with passion and teamwork.

In September, we took part in local Independence Day celebrations, joining parades, cultural events, and community activities that honour Guatemala’s rich heritage and vibrant traditions. These celebrations were a reminder that education does not exist in isolation, our work grows from the culture and community that welcomes us with open arms.

Refreshing Our Learning Centre: Creating a Welcoming Space for Learning

Thanks to the efforts of our volunteers, stuents and local community members, we painted and refreshed our Learning Centre, giving it a bright new look for the year ahead. A warm, welcoming environment makes a world of difference for students, helping them feel safe, confident, and motivated to learn.

The refresh was more than a coat of paint, it was a symbol of renewal, commitment, and our hope for the future of the project, as well as a mark of our students’ dedication to their learning!

Digital Learning for the Next Generation

Recognising the growing importance of digital literacy in today’s world, we expanded our online initiatives to reach more students beyond the physical classroom.

Expanding Digital Literacy Through Online English Programs

Launching Our Online Kids Book Club:

In partnership with the Young Readers Society, we launched our first-ever Kids Book Club, bringing reading activities, discussions, and storytelling sessions directly to children in Santiago and beyond. This pilot program encouraged a love of reading in English while promoting imagination, confidence, and digital engagement.

Online Conversation Sessions for Teens and Adults :

We also launched online English conversation sessions for teens and adults in partnership with ECHO, a Spanish service club based in Singapore. This initiative connected learners across borders, providing them with supportive spaces to practice speaking, improve fluency, and develop global awareness.

Both programs demonstrated the power of blending technology with community-based learning, something we hope to expand further in 2026.

Gratitude for Our Volunteers, Donors, and Community Partners

None of our work in 2025 would have been possible without the generosity and trust of our supporters.

To our donors, thank you for believing in the transformative power of education.

To our volunteers, thank you for giving your time, passion, and creativity.

To our local partners, in particular our partnering Public School, thank you for opening your spaces, for your excellent support and collaboration, and strengthening our connection with the community.

And to the families and students of Santiago Atitlán, thank you for welcoming us with open hearts and inspiring us every day.

Your support allowed us to continue building sustainable education programs that open doors, strengthen community leadership, and create long-term opportunities for learners of all ages.

Looking Ahead to 2026: Growing Sustainable Education Programs

As we step into 2026, we remain committed to:

Strengthening our volunteer pipelines – for anyone interested in volunteering, apply on our website here!
Expanding access to free educational programs
Securing devices and digital tools to support community members in developing tech skills
Growing partnerships locally and internationally
Creating a more inclusive and equitable learning environment for all

We’re excited for what lies ahead, and grateful for everyone who will walk this journey with us.

Thank You for Being Part of Our 2025 Story

2025 was a year of impact, resilience, and hope. Together, with volunteers, partners, supporters, and the incredible community of Santiago Atitlán, we planted seeds that will hopefully continue to grow for many years.

Thank you for being part of the One, Two…Tree! family.
Thank you for helping us strengthen education.
Thank you for investing in the future.

Here’s to a meaningful, community-centred, and inspiring 2026.

16 October, 2025 In Interviews, News

Meet the Unsung Heroes: Our Teachers and Volunteers

Teachers are often described as the backbone of education, but here at One, Two…Tree!, they are also the heart and soul of our mission. Every lesson taught, every smile and song shared, and every story told reflects the passion, resilience, and generosity of the incredible people who make up our community of volunteer teachers and Education leaders. In this post, we celebrate them, the unsung heroes who are quietly helping to change lives across Central America, one student at a time.

Why Teachers Deserve Our Deepest Appreciation

Teachers play a role that goes far beyond the classroom. They are mentors, motivators, and role models. In communities where access to quality education is limited, their impact multiplies. For many students in rural Guatemala and beyond, the chance to learn English is more than just acquiring a new skill, it is an opportunity to connect with the world, unlock career opportunities, and build self-confidence.

The Power of Volunteer Teachers

At One, Two…Tree!, we are privileged to work with dedicated volunteer teachers from around the globe, and the community of Santiago Atitlán itself! They come from different backgrounds—students, professionals, retirees, but they share a common belief: education can transform lives.

Volunteers step into classrooms where resources may be limited, yet creativity thrives. They design lessons, create interactive activities, and adapt teaching methods to meet students at their level. More importantly, they bring encouragement, enthusiasm, and hope into the learning environment.

Volunteer Teacher Story: Candy, from Santiago Atitlán – English student, turned volunteer, turned Volunteer and Project Coordinator!

Stories like Candy’s remind us about the transformative power of education and the opportunities that learning a new language can unlock.

Volunteers as Cultural Ambassadors

One of the most powerful aspects of volunteer teaching is cultural exchange. When volunteers step into classrooms, they bring with them unique traditions, experiences, and perspectives. This exchange enriches both students and teachers, fostering empathy, curiosity, and cross-cultural friendships.

For many students in Guatemala, meeting a volunteer teacher from another part of the world is their first direct experience with a different culture. This exposure opens their minds to possibilities beyond their immediate environment and encourages them to dream bigger.

Our volunteers getting into the spirit of Guatemalan Independence Day Celebrations!

Local Educators and Community Leaders in Local Communities

While our international volunteers play a crucial role, we must also recognise the local teachers and community leaders who work tirelessly to keep education sustainable. These leaders often balance heavy workloads with limited training opportunities, yet they remain committed to their students’ growth.

Our partnership model ensures that we are not just providing temporary support but building lasting capacity. By working hand-in-hand with local educators, we strengthen communities from within and create a long-term pathway for sustainable English education programs.

Teacher Story: Meet a Local Educator from one of our partnering schools, in Santiago Atitlán

Why Teacher Stories Matter

Behind every lesson is a story worth telling. By sharing teacher stories, we not only honour their dedication but also inspire others to join the cause. These stories highlight the resilience of local teachers, the creativity of international volunteers, and the impact that education has on young lives, that continues well into the future.

Through storytelling, we amplify the message that teaching is more than a profession, it is a calling. And when volunteers and local educators work side by side, the results ripple through entire communities.

The Ripple Effect of Teacher Impact

When teachers are empowered, their students thrive. When students thrive, communities grow stronger. Teacher appreciation is not just about saying thank you; it is about recognising how essential they are in building brighter futures.

For students, volunteer teachers provide access to new opportunities.
For schools, they bring fresh ideas, resources, and energy.
For communities, they cultivate resilience, confidence, and pride.

By uplifting teachers and volunteers, we are investing in the future of education and community growth.

Teacher Appreciation Beyond the Classroom

Appreciating teachers means creating systems that support them. At One, Two…Tree!, this includes:

Offering training and resources for both local and international teachers and volunteers.
Building collaborative partnerships with schools and communities.
Creating a supportive environment where volunteers can thrive.

By focusing on both gratitude and practical support, we ensure that appreciation translates into action.

How You Can Support Our Unsung Heroes

Teacher appreciation is not a once-a-year celebration—it is a mindset we can practice daily. Here are ways you can join us in celebrating teachers and volunteers:

Volunteer your time – Become part of our mission by teaching English abroad and sharing your skills.
Donate – Support training, resources, and classroom materials that make teaching easier and more effective.
Share stories – Amplify the voices of teachers and volunteers by sharing their journeys on social media.
Advocate for education – Raise awareness about the importance of English education in underserved communities.

Every small action counts toward making teachers feel valued and supported.

Conclusion: Celebrating Our Unsung Heroes

Teachers and volunteers are the true unsung heroes of English education. Their dedication, creativity, and compassion are what make programs like One, Two…Tree! possible. Whether they are international volunteers bringing fresh perspectives or local volunteers and teachers leading their communities, their contributions deserve our utmost gratitude.

By celebrating them, we not only honour their hard work but also inspire future leaders, volunteers, and educators to step forward. Together, we are building a movement where volunteer teachers, English educators, and inspiring teacher stories create a brighter, more connected future.