Since 2019, teacher Manuela Bosarreyes Quiñonez has been a key part of Niños de Guatemala’s educational team. She’s taught in all grades across our three schools and brings a unique perspective on what it means to educate in two languages.
“What inspired me the most was knowing that I was contributing to something greater: providing high-quality education to those who need it the most,” she shared.
Manuela started using the dual immersion methodology fully in 2021, teaching in both English and Spanish. At first, the responsibility felt overwhelming. “I remember feeling overwhelmed… I was afraid I wouldn’t meet the expectations. But over time, I learned, adapted, and grew alongside my students.”
She describes young children as “little sponges” when it comes to language. “They understand stories better, start speaking with more confidence, and can switch from one language to another without struggling.”
Manuela’s classroom is full of life: songs, games, visuals, and repetition help students feel safe and engaged. Her favorite tool? Encouragement. “I implemented the cheer ‘You can do it!, You can do it!, You can do it!’ to encourage children feeling confident to try, even if they make mistakes.”
One of her most memorable moments came from a student named Anderson. “He didn’t say a word in English or Spanish. One day, he greeted me with ‘Good morning miss!’ It was a little thing, but it touched my heart.”
Manuela’s hope for the future is clear: “My dream is to see the program bloom and reach more classrooms… I truly believe bilingual education can change lives and create new opportunities.”
Tuve el honor de trabajar con Manu 🥳
Fui voluntaria por una semana en su aula de Parbulos , y me sorprendí de su método( yo soy Asistente de Montessori de 0 a 6 años .
Ella es tan especial como ellos .
Mayo 12 del 2025 visite con mi hijo y nuera la Escuelita azul Nuestro Futuro “
Todo allí es un amor desde los niños hasta la persona q trabaja en la cosina , es una escuela que es más que una casa para esos niños
Volveré Manu. !!
Y seguiremos haciendo lo que nos gusta … AMAR .
Lindo lo q haces y admirable .