“Alfabetizar digitalmente a alumnos con discapacidad” is the motto that guides Escuela 209 Gerardo Cuesta today. The school’s story is one of dedication to students with intellectual disabilities. It is located on Avenida Daniel Fernández Crespo. This special school provides a unique learning environment for its students.
Escuela 209 Gerardo Cuesta is named after Gerardo Cuesta. He was a metalworker and trade union leader. Cuesta helped found the Convención Nacional de Trabajadores. He was also a promoter of the Congreso del Pueblo.
What makes Escuela 209 Gerardo Cuesta so special? The school serves around 80 students. These students have intellectual disabilities. The school day runs from 9 AM to 3 PM. There are also workshops that extend until 4 PM. The goal is to equip these children with skills. These skills help them later in life.
The school received nine computer devices in May 2023. The Rotary Club Cordón and Antel made this possible. Hugo Gaye from the Rotary Club Cordón expressed his happiness. He wants students to learn how to create resumes. He hopes they will use computers for more than just games.
Alejandra Moreno is the school’s director. She explained that the computers help students develop skills. These skills will help them when they enter the workforce. The school focuses on “Ciudadanía Digital”. This teaches children to use technology practically and critically.
Escuela 209 faced a challenge. What happens to students after they leave special schools? The teachers created a new curriculum. It focuses on memory and attention. The school created two workshops. One is in technological food preparation. The other is in beauty. Students gain skills to join the workforce and society.
Daysi Iglesias is the school director and project coordinator. She explained that the curriculum focuses on what support each student needs. This approach considers the needs of students throughout their lives.
The students also practice an activity called “historiar”. They recreate recent events from memory. This helps them improve attention spans. The school integrates students with different levels of intellectual disability. This promotes growth for everyone.
Verónica Luz teaches the technology food workshop. Her students arrive at 9 AM. They eat breakfast and clean the space. They plan a menu to sell to teachers and neighbors. Then they buy ingredients. They spend the morning preparing food. The students learn about measurements. These skills are useful in their tasks.
Escuela 209 Gerardo Cuesta is more than a school. It is a place where students gain skills. They receive support. They prepare for their future. The school’s commitment is evident. It empowers students with intellectual disabilities. It helps them achieve their full potential.