It’s spring 2024, and Máximo, a 17-year-old student from Panama, is just months away from graduation. While his peers who attend government schools face a staggering completion rate of only 21 percent, Máximo’s path is different. He attends Instituto Nuevo Amanecer, an independent school partnering with Edify. At schools like his across Panama, 96 percent of students graduate with “a future and a hope” (Jeremiah 29:11, NLT).
Like other Edify partner schools, Instituto Nuevo Amanecer prioritizes a holistic, Christ-centered education supported by in-depth trainings alongside Edify. The school’s teachers often participate in Edify’s training sessions, which include EdTech Integration, Christ-like Character, Biblical Integration, and Leadership. These trainings equip the staff to seamlessly incorporate technology in the classroom, foster strong biblical values, and develop the practical leadership skills that spur on students like Máximo.
Nuevo Amanecer: A New Kind of School
At Nuevo Amanecer, Máximo is challenged, consistently taught God’s Word, and surrounded by teachers who encourage him. He describes his journey attending Nuevo Amanecer as life-changing. He shares, “It’s not just about learning Scripture, but living it.” The school’s emphasis on biblical principles has deeply shaped his character, giving him a new outlook on life. Whether it’s through the stories of the perseverance of Deborah or the bravery of Daniel, the school enfolds him in truth. Even his new favorite verse, 2 Timothy 3:16, reminds him of these truths: “All Scripture is inspired by God and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness” (NLT).
As the school’s approach gives Máximo and his classmates a new biblical lens through which to view life, they are encouraged to live out their faith, not just learn about it. This environment, built on the Christ-centered values taught in Edify trainings, has profoundly influenced Máximo, shaping his academic pursuits and personal growth. Now, he feels called to embody what he’s learning, applying it in his daily life. As he considers his future, this foundation has motivated him to pursue medicine, viewing it as a path to serve others and showcase the impact of a biblical worldview.
“I want to dedicate my life to saving others, not just physically but spiritually, by bringing hope and healing to those in need,” he shares, viewing his career aspirations as an extension of his spiritual calling.
Preparing for the Future
Máximo’s story reflects the broader impact that schools that partner with Edify have on students across Panama. Through students like Máximo, the narrative for the next generation is changing, marked by students receiving a quality education and being equipped with Christ-centered values and faith. They will be the doctors, teachers, leaders, and innovators who carry forward the values they learned in school, transforming their lives, communities, and countries.
