Mexico City School Serving Impoverished Students Named Among WorldS Best
Mexico City – A public elementary school in one of Mexico City’s most marginalized neighborhoods has been recognized as a global leader in education, earning a place among the winners of the inaugural World’s Best School Prize. The “José urbina López” school,located in the Iztapalapa borough,was honored for its commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive learning environment for children from low-income families.
The school joins Arbor School (Dubai, UAE) – recognized for environmental action; The Franklin School (Jersey City, USA) – lauded for innovation; and SK putrajaya Presint 11 (Putrajaya, Malaysia) - celebrated for healthy life promotion, as recipients of the prestigious award. The winners were selected by a jury of global leaders spanning academia, education, NGOs, social enterprise, government, civil society, and the private sector, based on “rigorous evaluation criteria,” according to T4 Education, the association behind the prize.
The José Urbina López school stands out for its holistic approach to education, providing not only academic instruction but also vital support services like psychological care, nutritional assistance, and legal aid to students and their families. Many students face significant challenges outside of school,including poverty,violence,and food insecurity. The school actively addresses these issues,creating a safe and nurturing space where children can thrive.
“We don’t just teach children what to learn, but how to learn,” explained school director, Marcos Muñoz, in a previous interview. “We focus on developing critical thinking, creativity, and resilience – skills that will empower them to overcome obstacles and build a better future.”
Vikas Pota, founder of T4 Education and the World’s Best School Prize, emphasized the critical role of quality education in preparing “leaders capable of facing the greatest challenges of the 21st century,” including climate change, artificial intelligence, conflict, poverty, and populism. The award carries a $250,000 prize, which the José Urbina López school intends to use to expand its programs and further support its students and community.
