We have been Christian volunteers in Guatemala since 2001, and now reside in Xela (Quetzaltenango) where Laurel is a deacon at San Marcos Episcopal Church and Donna is a substitute teacher. We have four adult children and nine grandchildren. Prior to moving to Guatemala, Laurel retired from the U.S. Army in 1991 and Donna was an elementary school teacher.
The beautiful city of Xela pronounced “Shay-La”, is located in southwestern Guatemala in the Sierra Madre Mountains at an elevation of 7,658 feet. Xela, the second most important city in Guatemala, is the economic and transportation hub of southwestern Guatemala; and is considered the center of Mayan culture.
According to the 2000 Census there are 106,528 residents of the city, and 21,488 homes (although some estimates indicate the population has risen to 150,000-200,000). Indigenous Mayans, who speak K’iche’ and Mam as their first languages, make up about 55% of the population, 42% are Ladinos (mixed European and Mayan descent), and 3% are of European decent.
Inter-American School
Inter-American School
Inter-American School, founded in 1961, is a Christ-centered school which teaches all classes in English, using a curriculum based upon North American college preparatory standards. All of the teachers are Christian volunteers from English speaking countries. The vast majority of the 150 students (grades Pre-K through 12) are from Guatemalan families; other students come from North and South America, Europe, and Asia.
La Antigua Park
Donna and Veronica (A child we sponsored through CFCA)
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