Los Chiles continues to be one of the three poorest counties in Costa Rica, despite having two scenic rivers full of wildlife, the incredible wildlife refuge of Cano Negro, and being one of three border crossings to neighboring Nicaragua (currently by water). Recreational activities for youth are limited, as are prospects for employment after graduation. With the opening of a land border crossing for public use imminent, however, Los Chiles is poised to undergo transformational change.
Already, elementary and high school students and teachers are showing increased appreciation of the importance of English, as more tourists arrive and bring more jobs in hospitality and tourism with them. Beyond simple appreciation, however, they are taking action. This year alone, the both of the town`s principal elementary and high schools held their first ever English Spelling Bees, and the central elementary had their first all-day English Fest. As one 6th grader applicant put it, “I think learning and speaking English is very important, every day more so, so it will be very helpful for the future.”
