Smakiehh Elementary

Smakieh Primary was built in 1910 and has about 225 students enrolled. Operated by the Latin Patriarch Church they welcome local students of different religions. We selected a private school in this instance support a school directly. When we learned that the school is active in the local community, we felt confident of the partnership opportunity.

The students lacked access to recreation during inclement weather and. Additionally, during hot summer months, their outdoor recreation needed to be cut short for student safety. Thankfully, we were able to collaborate with them to create a recreational space with climate control measures, lighting, and protection from the elements. With the addition of a covered gymnasium students can expect to have physical activity regardless of the weather or outside conditions. It will also operate as an assembly hall or meeting space for workshops or community engagements.

Our partnership with this school targets sustainable development goals. By hiring local artisans, and construction teams we contribute to local economic growth. Including physical activity in your day contributes to good health and wellbeing. As well, the correlation between academic success and physical activity has been established. It has the power to reduce truancy, and boost graduation rates.

For this project, we also sought the artisanal skills of vocational students learning cultural arts. A local nonprofit organization,  Sermig – Arsenal of the Encounter, provides education services for adults and children with disabilities. Their students have agreed to make a sign in Jordanian Mosaic style and we are very excited to have them contributing to the project.

Community Partners: Sermig – Arsenal of the Encounter