Inauguration of the Alexandra Montessori Classroom thanks to the DREAM MontessoriAward and Cigar Country

Mar 19

Valverde, Dominican Republic – The DREAM Project and Cigar Country have teamed up to promote exemplary practices in early childhood education in the Dominican Republic through the DREAM Montessori Award. This prize is aimed at identifying and supporting institutions dedicated to fostering high-quality education from an early age. The winning organization is provided with a Montessori classroom and training for their staff to implement the Montessori Method in their community.

After a rigorous evaluation process, the selection committee, comprised of members from the DREAM Project and Cigar Country, awarded first place to the Yspaniola Foundation. DREAM staff conducted training sessions for Yspaniola’s staff, who also visited DREAM’s classrooms to observe the methodology in action and a Montessori classroom was established at Yspaniola’s educational center in Batey Libertad

The inauguration of the Alexandra Montessori Classroom at Yspaniola represents a significant committment, that both the DREAM Project and Cigar Country share, to provide quality educational opportunities to all Dominican children, regardless of their background or circumstances. This event was attended by distinguished representatives from the Ministry of Education, Cigar Country and the DREAM Project, as well as students’ parents and other members of the community.

Team of DREAM Project with director and subdirector, Representatives from Cigar Country and Yspaniola team

When interviewed, Mr. Ruben González from Cigar Country, expressed: “For us it is an honor to contribute to the education of the boys and girls of our country, we understand that investing in education means improving the quality of life and if we improve the quality of an individual's life we improve the quality of life of the community and the country.”

On behalf of the Yspaniola school, Montessori teacher Maria Esther Hernandez expressed her gratitude: "It is invaluable to be part of a significant change that will be sustainable in the future; education is crucial for the community." The mother of one of the students commented: “This award changed how the school looks and my son loves to be here... learning is fun! He tells me”

The inauguration of the Alexandra Montessori Classroom serves as a testament to the continued commitment of the DREAM Project and Cigar Country to educational excellence and the well-being of Dominican children and youth.