With the "Marca Guanajuato" model, existing infrastructure is used and high school education is brought closer to students of the State San Diego
With the “Marca Guanajuato” model, existing infrastructure is used and high school education is brought closer to students of the State
San Diego de la Union/Gto News
The Governor of the State, Libia Dennise Garcia Munoz Ledo, announced on the weekly broadcast of “Connecting with the People” the opening of 40 new Guanajuato Comprehensive High Schools (BIG) for this 2026, as part of the strategy of converting morning secondary schools into afternoon high schools, thus expanding educational coverage at the upper secondary level.
From San Diego de la Union, the State Governor explained that this model allows for the use of existing infrastructure: secondary schools operate in the morning and in the afternoon they transform into high schools, providing a new educatiol option in the communities.
“Last year we started with 31 new high school options, 30 of thems under this reconversion model. Today we are taking another step: this year we will open 40 new Comprehensive High Schools to continue expanding coverage and ensure that our young people do not drop out of school,” she said.
The Governor noted that, thanks to this strategy, 3,650 new students were received last year and coverage in Upper Secondary Education grew from 74.9% to 78.5%, with the goal of reaching 85% by 2030.
“The most important thing is that our young people stay in school. Many times they dropped out because they had to leave their communities to study for their high school diploma. Today we bring high school education to where they are,” said Libia.
The Governor reported that school dropout rates were reduced from 13.3% to 9.3% in the 2024-2025 school year.
The Secretary of Education, Luis Ignacio Sanchez Gomez, explained that the reconversion model originated in Guanajuato and has been a reference for other States.
“It’s a Marca Guanajuato model. We’re using existing infrastructure: a middle school that closes at 2 p.m. and remains unused in the afternoon is now opening its doors as a high school. With these 40 new campuses, we’ll be welcoming 5,350 more students,” said the Governor.
Libia noted that the Comprehensive High School program is completed in two years and offers a comprehensive education that includes:
- Digital, artistic, sports, socio-emotional and entrepreneurial skills
These learning allows students to graduate with Microcredentials that certify certain skills, useful in working life.
“In two years, the young people develop critical thinking, life skills, assertive communication, and teamwork. They also receive psychological support, tutoring, and mentoring to help them define their life plan,” said Libia.
One of the new Comprehensive High Schools will open in the “Architect Carlos Obregon Santacilia” secondary school, in San Diego de la Union.
Mayor, Juan Carlos Castillo Cantero, noted the social and economic impact that this new school will have.
“We are very pleased because this will be another option for our young students. Today, preparation is essential to access employment and plan for the future. This model promotes school retention, reduces travel, and strengthens education within our own communities,” said Juan Carlos.
The Mayor said that coordination between the State and the Municipality has been key to completing this project, which will allow more young people to continue their studies without leaving their environment.
Jimena Abigail Guzman Villegas, a student from the Dolores Hidalgo Comprehensive High School, also participated in the program and shared her experience within the model.
“This high school program has allowed me to grow not only academically, but also as a person. Here I have been able to participate in cultural, sports, and leadership activities. It motivates me to know that I can build my life project with the tools they give us,” said Jimena.
Boosting Early Childhood Education
The broadcast also announced the creation of 35 new Community Centers for Early Childhood Care (CCAPI) in 2026, aimed at children from 45 days to 2 years 11 months old. The Governor reiterated that the early years are fundamental for comprehensive development.
“Our children are our most valuable asset. Caring for early childhood is caring for the future. We are going to expand early childhood education coverage from 6.8% to 18% by 2030,” said Libia.
The Secretary of Education explained that the CCAPIs provide support to families and caregivers, with positive parenting services, guidance on healthy eating and promotion of comprehensive child development.
En Español:
COMMENTS