Earth Day 2009 Celebrates Winners!

Cultural Affairs Officer joins Prensita and the the two winners of the art contest.

In commemoration of Earth Day 2009, U.S. Embassy – El Salvador sponsored a nationwide public school art contest.  More than two hundred paintings were submitted by students representing ten of the fourteen departments in El Salvador.  The theme of the contest was “Protecting our Environment.”

Katherin Isamar Gomez (4th grade) and Samuel Osvaldo Lazo (9th grade), from “Centro Escolar Caserio El Tejar” received top honors.  Representatives from the Public Affairs Office and Peace Corps delivered prizes and diplomas to the students in Yayantique, La Union.  In addition, the school received a set of encyclopedias.

“Prensita”, the mascot of the Children’s section “Palomitas de Papel” of La Prensa Grafica, made the long journey from San Salvador to La Union, surprising the students, teachers and parents with stories and activities.  Afterwards, the students gave short performances highlighting ways they will protect the environment and “Save Our Planet.” 

Representatives from the Mayor’s office, Ministry of Education and environmental NGOs were also on hand to enjoy the excitement and enthusiasm of the students.  School Director, Mr. Fermin Alvarado, closed the program by expressing his gratitude to the Embassy and Peace Corps for promoting these types of programs and bringing them to their communities.