Consistency and Care for Healthier Communities

Consistent Care, Measurable Progress

Consistent care is at the heart of lasting impact. Over the past several years, medical, dental, and nutritional evaluations at Colegio Susanna Wesley (CSW) have provided valuable insight into both the needs of our students and the progress being made through ongoing care.

While the number of students served has remained relatively steady, the most meaningful trend is an improvement in nutritional health. This progress reflects the reality that addressing malnutrition takes time—it is not solved in a single intervention, but through consistent, long-term care.

Each year, several children are diagnosed as malnourished and/or with stunted growth, reminding us of the ongoing need. At the same time, improvements are evident. In 2026, 80% of students had age-appropriate growth during medical evaluations, and our nutrition support has been strengthened through collaboration with the local health center nutritionist.

This progress is the result of our holistic work—including regular medical check-ups, vitamins and supplements provided through the clinic, and ongoing education for parents on how to nourish their children. Through workshops and personal guidance, families are gaining practical tools that create lasting impact at home.

At the same time, new challenges are emerging. Some incoming students present with overweight conditions, reinforcing the importance of continued nutrition education and balanced health support for every child.

These trends reflect progress in our mission. They show that while challenges remain, consistent care, education, and partnership with families are creating real, measurable impact.

Protecting Our Community During the Measles Outbreak

In 2026, Guatemala is experiencing an active measles outbreak. By the end of March, the Ministry of Health reported over 3,500 cases, with numbers rising above 4,000 by mid-April. The outbreak has spread across several departments, including Sololá and Quiché (where Salud y Paz works), prompting a nationwide response supported by organizations such as PAHO/WHO and UNICEF.

Health authorities have implemented emergency measures including active case tracking, targeted vaccination campaigns, and community-based monitoring. A key concern is the risk for young children—especially those under one year of age—who are more vulnerable to severe complications and may not yet have completed their vaccination schedules. Given how highly contagious measles is, increasing vaccination coverage remains critical to slowing its spread.

Amid this context, Salud y Paz has collaborated with the local public health post to take proactive steps to protect students, patients and staff. Strict biosecurity protocols have been implemented across our clinic, including mandatory mask use for medical personnel and patients, frequent handwashing, and vaccination boosters for staff.

At Colegio Susanna Wesley, vaccination records for all students have been carefully reviewed to ensure immunizations are up to date. Families have been encouraged to complete any missing vaccines, reinforcing a shared commitment to prevention.

This moment is a reminder that health and education are deeply connected. Through vigilance, prevention, and coordinated action, Salud y Paz continues to prioritize the safety and well-being of every child, family and staff member.

~ Dr. Ernesto Molina
Salud y Paz’s Provider

Building Healthy Habits from an Early Age

At Colegio Susanna Wesley, education extends beyond the classroom. Through interactive health workshops led by our nurse and teachers, students are learning how to care for their bodies and build habits that will serve them for a lifetime.

Recently, students across all grade levels participated in sessions focused on personal hygiene and self-care. Through simple but essential practices—like handwashing, brushing teeth, and daily hygiene—students are gaining a deeper understanding of how everyday actions can prevent illness and support overall well-being.

For younger students, learning was both engaging and hands-on. In Preschool Class, children explored hygiene through videos, group activities, and interactive puzzles that encouraged curiosity and participation. In Kindergarten Class, students were introduced to the human body, identifying organs such as the heart and lungs and learning how to care for them through guided, practical activities.

These moments of learning go beyond knowledge. They help shape daily habits, reinforce responsibility for personal health, and lay the foundation for healthier futures.

This work is made possible by the dedication of our parents, teachers, clinic staff and child sponsors, who together, create a caring community investing in each child’s growth.

Strengthening Partnerships through Shared Learning

Salud y Paz recently joined fellow non-governmental organizations and partner schools as part of a collaborative network focused on strengthening relationships, sharing experiences, and growing together in our work.

During the month of March, our team visited the organizations Puertas Abiertas Atitlán and Amigos de Santa Cruz, where we had the opportunity to see their educational models and community-based approaches. Each organization welcomed us openly, presenting their programs, sharing their methodologies, and creating space for meaningful dialogue around both successes and challenges.

Throughout these visits, we observed classes in session, toured facilities, and gained a deeper understanding of the programs being implemented. Conversations also highlighted common challenges, including academic staff attraction and retention, adapting teaching and learning methodologies, and navigating the realities of the communities we serve.

These shared experiences were deeply valuable. It gave us new ideas and practical insights that can be thoughtfully adapted within our own school, while also reinforcing an important truth: the challenges we face are not ours alone—they are shared across the network. This understanding fosters collaboration, encourages the exchange of resources, and strengthens our ability to build solutions together.

Most importantly, this process invited reflection. It challenged us to examine our own practices, identify areas for growth, and explore new strategies. It also reminded us that each organization serves a unique community context, something that ultimately enriches our collective learning.

~ Omaira Somoza
Programs Manager

Celebrate with us our 25th Anniversary!

In 2026, Salud y Paz celebrates 25 years of service in Guatemala—a journey made possible by the vision and dedication of our founder, Dr. Phillip Lester Plunk. His legacy continues to guide our mission: promoting integrated health, healing, and education with Mayan communities by expanding access to healthcare and early childhood education.

We invite you to join us November 7–11, 2026 for our 25th Anniversary Gathering in Guatemala. This special celebration will include opportunities to experience our work firsthand, connect with community partners, and honor Dr. Phil’s lasting legacy through meaningful activities, including a graduation ceremony, clinic visit, and cultural experiences.

The cost of the trip is $1,100 plus airfare. By joining us, you are celebrating our past and becoming part of our future.

You can view the full itinerary and trip details on our website.