Facilities

With the local climate, cost, and the environmental impact in mind, a cob schoolhouse based on traditional building techniques using earth was built. In 2005, Harald Muller had learned about cob building while working on a local homebuilding project with the non-profit organization House Alive, in which a group of volunteers built a house for a local coastal family with limited resources.

Construction began in 2006 with process being approached as an educational opportunity. Three local workers were hired and taught the technique and an open invitation given to the community and those passing through to participate. A free breakfast was offered to entice curious volunteers. With great efforts by Harald and Gino Cacciota, who devoted over three unpaid months of his time, and the help of a few volunteers, the walls steadily rose and were duly followed by a broad, thatched-palm roof typical of the region. There is one indoor classroom and two outdoor teaching areas. The school area is being continually being improved upon, with plans for more teaching spaces and an office space to accommodate growing classes and the need for additional services.

La Escuelita would like to extend thanks to all those who have helped make our dream a reality! Those names include Harald, our tireless project manager year after year; Gino, without whose help and experience we would never have gotten off the ground; as well as the many builders and other helpers that include Freddy, Nico, Benito, Julio, Reyan, Jacko, Huw, Merrell, Fred, Stephany, Pedro, and Alvarro. Our thanks goes out to all of you!