Democracy Prep at the Agassi Campus (DPAC) students joined us for one day and night and helped with the movement of 300 concrete blocks, an activity that required not only physical strength but also teamwork and coordination. It was a sight to behold as students, teachers, and community volunteers worked side by side, their efforts synchronized in a dance of collaboration. The blocks they moved were heavy and the sun unforgiving, but the spirit of determination and camaraderie among the students made the challenge surmountable.
The other task was to clear up one of the garden areas that received all the clay and broken rubble from a path building earlier this year! This group went at it and transformed the place! Thank you all for your hard work. This garden is being prepared for the planting of some rare endemic species.
Our students ate very well, thanks to Monique Nieves, who delighted us with fine cuisine! Thank you to Mercury, who took the students to the river and made a fire for them to enjoy at night. Thanks to school staff Lesley (who came last year!), Toy, and Armando.
Appreciations to Vamonos staff for getting the group here safely: Mayra, Cruz, and Roberto.
In early March 2024, a group of twenty-nine students, aged 13 to 14, from the Principia School in Missouri, joined us for a few days. They actively participated in our projects under favorable dry weather conditions, allowing us to make significant progress. The Principia School is a private, coeducational institution focused on college preparatory education, offering innovative programs from early childhood through twelfth grade.
We want to express our heartfelt thanks for the wonderful time we had together and for all the help provided.
Special appreciation goes to John, Ben, Lauren, and Lyndsey from the Principia staff, who expertly and kindly supervised the students. Their fair and effective management made our collaboration smooth and productive. Additionally, we’re grateful to Vamonos staff members Cruz, Mayra, and Roberto for their enjoyable and energetic participation.
In just one afternoon and a day, the team accomplished numerous tasks:
What a great group!!
3t led the work crew, with assistance from Mercury.
Mercury also supported Monique Nieves in preparing meals, contributing to the delightful dining experiences.
Our sincere thanks to Monique Stauder for capturing and sharing the final images of our time together.
This collective effort and the spirit of cooperation made our time together not only productive but also memorable. Thank you to everyone involved! 5th-7th March 2024
In an inspiring display of youthful vigor and environmental stewardship, a group of enthusiastic teen students from the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics took part in a tree-planting event today, aimed at revitalizing an area affected by the landslides from Hurricane Fiona. This heartening initiative not only symbolizes a step towards ecological restoration but also embodies the spirit of collaboration and community service.
A special shoutout to Vámonos Tours for ensuring the safe arrival of these intrepid young environmentalists to the site. Their commitment to facilitating such impactful experiences is truly commendable and was pivotal in making today’s activity possible.
The day was buzzing with energy and anticipation as the students, equipped with shovels and saplings, were ready to get their hands dirty for a noble cause. Guiding their efforts in the field were the dynamic duo, 3t and Karim Emir, whose passion for environmental conservation was infectious. Their leadership not only educated the students on the importance of reforestation but also instilled in them a deeper respect for nature and its delicate balances.
Back at the base, the culinary wizards, Monique Nieves and Mercury, were hard at work in the kitchen, preparing a feast to nourish the hardworking volunteers. Their dedication to keeping spirits high and stomachs full added a warm and communal atmosphere to the day’s efforts, making the experience even more memorable for everyone involved.
Today’s tree-planting event is a vibrant testament to what can be achieved when young minds and caring hearts come together for the greater good. It’s a reminder that every action towards restoring our planet counts and that the younger generation is ready and willing to lead the charge towards a greener, more sustainable future.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who played a part in today’s success, especially Vámonos Tours, for their flawless logistics and unwavering support. Together, we’ve taken a significant step in healing the scars left by Hurricane Fiona, planting seeds of hope and growth for years to come. Here’s to many more such initiatives, where we can all come together to make a difference, one tree at a time!
Susquehanna University (Pennsylvania) students worked hard to reclaim the homestead gardens from invasive vines, clear and prune the Wastewater garden, and create a new nursery area. It has been a joy to have them live with us for three days, and share work, meals, fun, and an electrical issue! Thank you for volunteering. What a great team. Thanks to Monique Nieves, for the fine cuisine, and to Mercury, Karim Emir, and Paula Isabel for their valuable assistance. Thanks to Vamonos Tours for getting this group here safely, and to Vamonos group leader Joseph, for his enthusiasm and love.
Democracy Prep at the Agassi Campus, 21-23 March 2023
Between March 21 and March 23, 2023, Las Casas de la Selva rainforest welcomed a vibrant team of students from Democracy Prep at the Agassi Campus, Las Vegas, Nevada. Their energy was contagious as they eagerly embraced the multifaceted wonders of this natural haven, engaging with both its rich ecology and the pressing work of conservation.
The team from Democracy Prep immersed themselves wholeheartedly in the practical aspects of rainforest conservation. Working tirelessly in the nurseries, they took up the tasks of repotting, organizing, and cleaning with a zeal that spoke volumes about their commitment. Their contribution was invaluable, providing essential support to the ongoing efforts to preserve and nurture the unique biodiversity housed within Las Casas de la Selva. Under the guardianship of Las Casas de la Selva, the rainforest is far more than just a stunning display of nature’s grandeur. It’s a thriving laboratory of life, a haven for many of Puerto Rico’s unique and endemic species. The team from Democracy Prep was given an insider’s view into conservation initiatives, conducted in partnership with the Botanical Gardens Conservation International. This experience gave them a tangible understanding of the unwavering commitment and labor that goes into preserving the planet’s fragile ecosystems.
The students’ education extended beyond conservation techniques. They were introduced to two precious jewels of the rainforest, both incredibly rare and endangered plant species: Palo de Cruz (Garcinia portoricensis) and Tortuga Prieto (Ravenia urbanii). These plants represent more than just biological entities; they are key characters in the narrative of Puerto Rico’s distinct biological legacy. To truly value and conserve the rainforest’s complex ecosystem, one must understand the role and importance of these species.
The students from Democracy Prep were given the unique opportunity to observe and study these plants in their natural surroundings. This firsthand experience was not only educational but also fostered a sense of connection and responsibility toward these endangered species and the environment as a whole. Their journey was not just a visit to a rainforest, but a voyage into the heart of conservation, a glimpse into the intricate interplay of life, and an unforgettable lesson in environmental stewardship.
However, it wasn’t all about work. Amidst the labor and learning, the students fell in love with the experience of being in the heart of the rainforest. The resonance of nature, the rustle of leaves, the trickling water, the chattering of wildlife, and the refreshing rain showers – all these elements combined to create a symphony of sensations that captivated the young explorers.
Even the rainfall, which could have been viewed as a setback, was embraced with joy. Dancing and laughing in the rain, they found in this shared experience a magic that brought them even closer to the spirit of the rainforest.
Their remarkable journey to the heart of Puerto Rico was made possible by Vamanos Tours, who ensured the smooth logistics of their trip. Their days were punctuated with mouth-watering meals, thanks to the exceptional culinary skills of Yara Soler. Her meals, a delightful blend of local ingredients and traditional recipes, offered an additional layer of cultural immersion. Soler’s kitchen was ably supported by Joel and Adrianna, whose hard work and dedication greatly contributed to the overall experience.
The time spent by Democracy Prep students at Las Casas de la Selva was more than a field trip; it was an intimate encounter with nature, a journey into the world of conservation, and a celebration of camaraderie under the Puerto Rican sky. It was a testament to the transformative power of experiences that combine learning, labor, and love for the environment. The memories and lessons they took away will undoubtedly continue to inspire them long after their return to Nevada. Their adventure in the rainforest is a reminder that sometimes the best classroom is the one with no walls.
We appreciate the collaboration we have with Vamanos! Reach out to them if you have a large school group that you would like to travel with, get all over the island, and also stay a few nights, or all nights, with us. https://www.vamonostours.com/about-us/ Vámonos is a minority-owned educational tour company incorporated in the state of Delaware. Founder, Jorge Pardo, started the company in 2002 after six years of taking his own students on cultural and Spanish immersion tours of his island. With a 100% teacher background, they know what it is like to organize these tours from a teacher’s perspective. Therefore, they help teachers throughout the entire sign-up process and provide more than what’s expected in terms of trip preparation.
A team of 14 eager young students from Doane Academy in Burlington, New Jersey arrived at Las Casas de la Selva, ushered in by the experienced guides of Vamanos Tours, and 5 school staff. Though their stay was short, the impact of their visit will resonate for many days and years to come.
Under the stewardship of Las Casas de la Selva, the rainforest serves as more than just a natural spectacle. It’s a living laboratory and a sanctuary for many of Puerto Rico’s endemic species. The students were introduced to ongoing conservation projects, undertaken in collaboration with the Botanical Gardens Conservation International. These initiatives, aimed at preserving the biodiversity of the rainforest, offered the students a firsthand look at the work and dedication required to protect our planet’s delicate ecosystems. They gained an understanding of the urgency and importance of conservation work. Through these encounters, they learned about the delicate balance that characterizes the rainforest and the role they can play in maintaining it.
In particular, they learned about two incredibly rare and endangered plant species: Palo de Cruz (Garcinia portoricensis) and Tortuga Prieto (Ravenia urbanii). These aren’t just plants but important chapters in the story of Puerto Rico’s unique biological heritage. Understanding these species is essential to conserving the rainforest’s intricate web of life, and the students were privileged to see and learn about these plants in their natural habitat.
The Doane Academy students stepped into the shoes of conservationists for the day, engaging in the noble task of trail clearing. The trails within the lush landscape of Las Casas de la Selva serve as vital lifelines, not just for the human visitors, but for the incredible biodiversity that calls this place home. Keeping them clear and safe is a task of utmost importance, ensuring that the delicate balance of the forest ecosystem remains undisturbed.
Equipped with tools and buoyed by a shared purpose, the students worked diligently, clearing fallen leaves and branches, smoothing out rugged areas, and ensuring the trails remain accessible for future explorations. The task was not only a lesson in conservation work, but also an exercise in teamwork, as students learned to synchronize their efforts, becoming parts of a cohesive whole, much like the rainforest itself.
After a day of hard work, they embarked on a hike along the ethnobotanical trail, delving deep into the heart of the forest. This wasn’t just any walk in the woods. As they navigated the trail, they had a chance to discover and learn about the extraordinary plant species that inhabit this rainforest. The trail provided them with a window into the fascinating world of ethnobotany, demonstrating the profound relationship between humans and plants.
The day’s activities culminated in a culinary treat, courtesy of Yara Soler. Her exceptional cuisine added a flavorful finish to a day packed with learning and action, providing the students with a well-deserved reward. Nourished by Soler’s delicious creations, they ended their day on a high note, their hearts filled with unforgettable memories and newfound appreciation for the conservation work being done at Las Casas de la Selva.
Even as their visit concluded, the experiences and knowledge gained during this single day will undoubtedly continue to resonate with the Doane Academy students. They left a part of themselves in the forest trails they cleared, and in return, they carried away valuable lessons in conservation, teamwork, and respect for nature’s intricate tapestry. And hopefully, their brief foray into the world of Las Casas de la Selva has sown the seeds of lifelong stewardship for our planet’s precious resources.
The time spent at Las Casas de la Selva by the students of Doane Academy was an immersive lesson in ecology and conservation. They didn’t just observe the rainforest; they experienced it, understood it, and contributed to its well-being. In the process, they came away with an experience that combined exploration, education, and stewardship, fostering a deep respect for the natural world that will hopefully last a lifetime.
We appreciate the collaboration we have with Vamanos! Reach out to them if you have a large school group that you would like to travel with, get all over the island, and also stay a few nights, or all nights, with us. https://www.vamonostours.com/about-us/ Vámonos is a minority-owned educational tour company incorporated in the state of Delaware. Founder, Jorge Pardo, started the company in 2002 after six years of taking his own students on cultural and Spanish immersion tours of his island. With a 100% teacher background, they know what it is like to organize these tours from a teacher’s perspective. Therefore, they help teachers throughout the entire sign-up process and provide more than what’s expected in terms of trip preparation.
An extraordinary opportunity beckoned the students of Fountain Valley High, led by the exceptional math teacher Deb Prantl. Leaving their familiar classrooms behind, they journeyed thousands of miles, plunging into a world as lush as it is mysterious. Their destination: Las Casas de la Selva, a sanctuary nestled deep within the heart of the Puerto Rican rainforest.
Awaiting them was a chance to immerse themselves in a realm of knowledge that far outstripped any textbook. They were there to spend time with Thrity Vakil, or 3t as she is fondly known. A respected director and passionate budding botanist, 3t offered these young explorers an up-close and personal encounter with the incredible biodiversity that thrives in the verdant wonder of the rainforest.
Under 3t’s guidance, they discovered the intricate beauty and delicate balance of the rainforest ecosystem, and projects dedicated to conservation of endemic speces, in collaboration with The Botanical Gardens Conservation International.They learned about two rare and endangered plant species, Palo de Cruz (Garcinia portoricensis) and Tortuga Prieto (Ravenia urbanii). These weren’t just names on a list for the students; they were real, vibrant components of a thriving ecosystem that they could touch, examine, and understand. The students got up close to the critically endangered species being propagated in the nursery. They also got to repot endangered endemic seedlings Guayabota (Eugenia stahlii), from seeds gathered in 2020.
It’s not every day that a math teacher from Colorado Springs brings her students to the vibrant depths of the Puerto Rican rainforest. Deb Prantl, however, is no ordinary educator. Year after year, she chooses to embark on these exceptional journeys with her students, seeing the inestimable value of teaching beyond the classroom. Her vision transforms students from mere observers to participants in this incredible global classroom.
Las Casas de la Selva, under the stewardship of 3t and her team, welcomed these eager students with the vibrant buzz of coquis, the rich scent of damp earth, and the lush greenery of towering trees. The students didn’t just observe the rainforest, they experienced it – its sounds, its smells, and its life – gaining insights that can’t be learned in a traditional classroom setting. This trip wasn’t just a journey into the rainforest; it was an expedition into knowledge, conservation, and a deeper understanding of the world that surrounds us.
The thrill of the journey to Las Casas de la Selva doesn’t end with their exploration of the rainforest. A walk in the woods is just the beginning. The excitement continues as the group congregates for an opening circle – an integral part of the experience, providing an opportunity for everyone to share a bit about themselves and forge connections. With dinner comes more animated conversations, as students and staff exchange stories and perspectives, learning from each other as much as from their surroundings.
The next day, the group gets their hands dirty, literally. They work on clearing a trail near a landslide caused by Hurricane Fiona in September 2022, and another one leading down to the river. They help in repotting rare trees in the nursery and planting out nine mahogany trees, each seedling a promise for the future. They engage with Bill Davidowski, absorbing his insights on woodworking as he unveils his current projects.
All this, fueled by the delectable cuisine of Monique Nieves, bringing the local flavors of Puerto Rico to life with every mouthful. Her culinary prowess complements the rich experiences of the day, nourishing both body and soul.
Witnessing the rainforest awaken to a new day, watching the students’ faces light up as they discover the wonders hidden in the lush wilderness is a sight to behold. From unusual flora and fauna, breathtaking waterfalls, awe-inspiring wildlife, to the melodic chorus of coquis serenading the night, Las Casas de la Selva transforms into an open-air classroom like no other.
The retreat at Las Casas de la Selva is not just an ecological expedition; it’s a journey of connections – with nature, with each other, and within oneself. It’s a sanctuary away from the digital distractions of modern life. Students often express their relief and joy at being off their phones and devices, relishing the chance to simply be in the moment, to absorb the sights, sounds, and sensations of the living rainforest around them.
Beyond the trail-blazing, tree-planting, and storytelling, the Las Casas de la Selva experience is about more profound lessons. Lessons in conservation, sustainability, and environmental stewardship are woven into the fabric of the journey. It’s about understanding that we’re all part of this beautiful, intricate web of life and that every action matters.
And perhaps most importantly, it’s a reminder that sometimes, the best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the wild. To echo the words of naturalist John Muir, “In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks.” In the heart of the Puerto Rican rainforest, the students of Fountain Valley High discovered just that.
Fountain Valley School of Colorado provides a transformative curriculum in a supportive environment where students are challenged to think critically, become leaders, and live by our core values: Courage, Compassion, Curiosity, Self-Reliance, Open-Mindedness. Fountain Valley School is a coed independent college preparatory school that offers day and boarding programs for students in grades 9-12. FVS was established in 1930 and is located on an 1,100 acre campus in Colorado Springs, Colo., which is 70 miles (115 km) south of Denver. Colorado’s mountain ski resorts are two hours to the west, and the School has a 40-acre Mountain Campus near Buena Vista, Colo., that provides abundant opportunities for year-round recreation and experiential education programs.
Democracy Prep Endurance Charter School, Manhattan, NY, 19-21 Feb 2023
Thanks to these enthusiastic students from New York, who helped with clearing hurricane debris.
Thanks to Monique Nieves for great chef work, and delicious food. She was helped in the kitchen by Niko Pulford, 20 year old world traveler who is volunteering for three weeks and helping out in all areas. Thanks Niko, it was a pleasure to have you here. Good luck and see you again.
All Democracy Prep staff and students live by the “DREAM” values of Discipline, Respect, Enthusiasm, Accountability and Maturity.
We appreciate the collaboration we have with Vamanos! Reach out to them if you have a large school group that you would like to travel with, get all over the island, and also stay a few nights, or all nights, with us. https://www.vamonostours.com/about-us/ Vámonos is a minority-owned educational tour company incorporated in the state of Delaware. Founder, Jorge Pardo, started the company in 2002 after six years of taking his own students on cultural and Spanish immersion tours of his island. With a 100% teacher background, they know what it is like to organize these tours from a teacher’s perspective. Therefore, they help teachers throughout the entire sign-up process and provide more than what’s expected in terms of trip preparation.
Students and staff from Susquehanna University, a private liberal arts college in Selinsgrove, Pennsylvania, came to stay for three days, brought to us by Vamanos Tours who specialize in immersive experiences for children and young adults.
This team continued with the cementing of the path down to El teatro; a much needed upgrade after the torrential rains of Hurricane Fiona in September 2022. Thanks to volunteers at Las Casas de la Selva who helped with crew leadership for the task in hand: 3t, Larry Birdflask, George Locascio, and Alfredo Lopez. Monique Nieves was chef, ably assisted by Vanessa Acevedo. We ate really well! 3t gave a presentation about the history and work at Las Casas de la Selva, and George Locascio made a presentation about his work as a lepidopterist and botanist.
We appreciate the collaboration we have with Vamanos! Reach out to them if you have a large school group that you would like to travel with, get all over the island, and also stay a few nights, or all nights, with us. https://www.vamonostours.com/about-us/ Vámonos is a minority-owned educational tour company incorporated in the state of Delaware. Founder, Jorge Pardo, started the company in 2002 after six years of taking his own students on cultural and Spanish immersion tours of his island. With a 100% teacher background, they know what it is like to organize these tours from a teacher’s perspective. Therefore, they help teachers throughout the entire sign-up process and provide more than what’s expected in terms of trip preparation.
Students and staff from Hartford High School, Vermont were in the house for several days, whilst we had an island-wide blackout. We worked on the ethnobotanical trail where a landslide had erased much of the path, and created a new trail. Old eroded steps on the trail were renewed and undergrowth was cleared for more tree-planting. Thanks to staff Doug Anton, Israel Provoncha, and Tricia Pfeiffer for great leadership, and to Vamanos Tours for safe travel and island organizing! Monica Nieves and Vanessa Acevedo worked the kitchen and dining, and we were delighted by the fine cuisine.
A – Democracy Prep Charter High School – New York, NY B – Democracy Prep Harlem High School – Harlem, NY C – Democracy Prep Harlem Prep High School – Harlem, NY D – Democracy Prep Bronx Prep High School – Bronx, NY E – Democracy Prep Endurance High School – New York, NY
Democracy Prep Public Schools is a growing network of free, open-enrollment, high-performing public charter schools committed to preparing students for success in college and active citizenship. These five teams of New York teens came to participate at Las Casas de la Selva, Sustainable Forestry Project, Patillas, and worked outside in heavy rains and muddy conditions, helping with clearing overgrowth, clearing an area for more tree sapling storage under shade, digging holes for tree planting, and cleaning up various nursery areas. Comfort zones were broken down swiftly, but happy to report big smiles all around. We had a great time with these young students who are all on their way to great achievements. We salute you all. Thanks also to the staff who brought each team and Vamanos Tours for getting them all in and out safely. Thanks to Monique Nieves and Vanessa Acevedo for the delicious cuisine.
Vamanos Tours brought a wonderful team of 25 teens and 3 staff, from Meridian School, Boston, USA to stay for two days and help out in all areas. We cleared a bank in preparation for a future project and worked on the ethnobotanical trail. Thanks to Monique Nieves for delicious vegetarian food, and to Vanessa Acevedo for all homestead help.
