Redefining Community Development in Puerto Rico

The past three months the vast sphere of activities and programs implemented by P.E.C.E.S., Inc. throughout eastern Puerto Rico have been permeated by dynamic hope. Within the context of 81% of eligible Puerto Rican citizens having been vaccinated, P.E.C.E.S., Inc. has been able to return to many full presence activities. Our alternative licensed and accredited alternative high school has over 293 participants on a rotating schedule for social distancing. Our program for victims of criminality and violence has continued functioning directly with over 209 participants and 103 families throughout the pandemic. Our economic development programs and workshops continue to serve 182 individuals that are creating their own local businesses.
The special program that we wish to present in this report is Smart Plus that works with adolescents throughout eastern and central Puerto Rico. Through workshops, counseling, mentoring, and a variety of activities this program prevents early pregnancy and school desertion. During the pandemic 1018 participants and 1031 families completed this program. One of the comments of the participants is as follows:
“This program has helped me since it brought me the necessary tools to be prepared for a future relationship. What I liked most of the program was the information of the videos, detailed and precisely, focusing on what’s more important so you can have a healthy future. The program helped me to say “NO” when it was necessary and to the things that doesn’t benefits me. It helped me think on the possible solutions to the problems that can be presented on life and to take them with calm.” Yanliel 

Proyecto P.E.C.E.S. Accredited High School has been characterized by developing in our students’ skills relevant to their academic interests, as well as in science, mathematics and other areas. With the purpose of promoting a more intense, dynamic and integrated approach to science, technology, engineering and mathematics, what we know as STEM, in recent months a team of teachers trained in these disciplines, in collaboration with a young mentor majoring in civil engineering, and with experience in activities focused on STEM, have been working with a group of students evoking enthusiasm and sharing the importance of these disciplines and how they can improve the quality of life of the world around them. During the 2021 academic year, goals were achieved at the school level, as well as in the areas of science and mathematics.  In the mathematics department, 92% of the students passed the courses.  In the science department, 90% of the students passed the courses.  We are proud to announce that 82% of 12th-grade students graduated and 39% graduated with honors.  51% of the students reflected an improvement in their academic achievement.  33% of students have identified an aspect of science and technology relevant to their life experience.  40% of the students at the time were trained on the causes of earthquakes, and it is expected that by the end of the year 60% will participate in training on global warming and vaccine development.  100% of the students have established an ongoing relationship with a science mentor.  To this date, 30% of students have shown enthusiasm for technology.  Through the activities carried out, the participating students have recognized the importance of science, technology, and mathematics. Thanks to our collaborators and foundations that subsidize us, the granting of funds provides students with classrooms that are adequately equipped with the necessary materials to work on the courses in biology, chemistry, physics, general science, and mathematics. Their interest in our students and their collaboration has shown us that if we all come together, we can develop a different vision of society. 

#TogetherWeAchieveMore! 

Links:

• Proyecto P.E.C.E.S. Inc. Accredited High School Class of 2021