Dorian Alonzo

Project: Appropriate, Comfortable Furniture for Classrooms 

Quote: “The most important thing, perhaps the most relevant achievement for me, is that through the process, the community itself gave me the ideas so that we could solve the problems that we face.”

Favorite Activity: CrossFit

Favorite Book: Popol Vuh

About: As a result of his negative educational experience as a child, Dorian was inspired to become an educator. He knew that he wanted to be a role model and was motivated to be the teacher he never had. Dorian joined the Ministry of Education as a teacher in 2010 and currently works as the principal and a teacher at the Cantón Chicuá School. Recently, Dorian received his Law Degree so that in addition to being an educator, he can support his family as a lawyer. Dorian encourages his students to continue their education and is working to change the mentality that teachers are authorities who always have the right answers. He values building relationships, being a supporter of his students, and learning from his students and the community. 

Dorian shared that many young people from his community, and surrounding areas, migrate to the United States in search of employment and greater opportunities. As a result, Dorian is passionate about guiding young people to continue their studies and to be active participants in community development projects to create opportunities locally. Before working with ConnectED, Dorian never considered himself to be a leader, just a person with the ability to support the community. As a Fellow, he values camaraderie and helping others through difficult situations. 

“I always want to continue studying and learning! I want to be a role model for my students, be a change agent, and share my knowledge with community members. We need to change stereotypes and ways of thinking. I am passionate about helping to solve our community and education needs in an organized way.”

Problem: The school’s furniture, including desks and chairs, has not been updated or replaced in years. Uncomfortable seating, which is the wrong size, has directly impacted students’ ability to sit and focus in school. 

Solution: Dorian furnished all the classrooms at his school with new desks and chairs so that students can sit comfortably in class. The new furniture has tremendously improved the learning environment and provided students with a dignified place to sit while they learn. Since implementing his project, Dorian has continued to work on renovating the school’s computer lab.