Inter-American Conference of Provincials (CIAP)
The Inter-American Education Subcommission met from January 14 to 17 in the provincial house of Brasil Centro-Norte located in Brasilia.
The members of the Subcommission are Mr. Ernesto José Reyes Plaza (Cono Sur), Mrs. Irma Zamarripa Valdez (Arco Norte), and Brothers Luis Carlos Gutiérrez Blanco (Arco Norte), José Wagner Rodrigues da Cruz (Brazil), and Manuir Mentges (Brazil).
After the welcoming words and historical introduction by Brother Wellington Medeiros (Provincial of Brasil Centro-Norte), we followed an intense work and reflection agenda. The main issues revolved around a proposal of Catholic identity for Marist schools, and the so-called “evangelize by educating” model, plus the resulting implications for the curriculum design and school management. These topics helped us visualize the reflection process in preparation for the 2016 III Inter-American Marist Education Meeting that will take place in Lima, Peru. The Subcommission spent much time developing the internal logic and implementation of this preparation stage, as well as other significant processes that will take place before and after the meeting. We believe these efforts will enlighten and strengthen the shared commitment of the Marist Americas to offer a path of vitality that includes clear guidelines for the future of our continental presence and educational mission, under the perspective of the Marist bicentennial and the three horizons of the 21st General Chapter. We also met with the education coordinators of Brasil Centro-Norte, and with Brother Valter Zancanaro, Executive Secretary of UMBRASIL (Marist Association of Brazil).
Other topics:
- Reception and use of the book The School Director’s Management at the Service of the Mission in the Provinces. All the Spanish and Portuguese-speaking Administrative Units of the continent have received it and are now distributing and studying the book.
- Publicity about the Master in Marist Education Management and registration for this online course sponsored by Marcellin Champagnat University of Lima and the Marist University of Guadalajara. At present, the first twelve students are near graduation. We expect new groups of students in February at both Universities.
- Exchange program for executives between Provinces (internships lasting approximately one week) in order to become acquainted with other pedagogical or educational experiences. We studied the possible locations, and will send a list to the education coordinators in each Province, so that they can organize the participation of their executives in this formation initiative.
On behalf of the Subcommittee, I would like to thank the Province of Brasil Centro-Norte for their kindness and support. The welcoming attitude and hospitality of Brothers Wellington Medeiros, Wagner Cruz and the community of the provincial house was, as always, impeccable and fraternal.
____________________
Brother Luis Carlos Gutiérrez