The 12 HighLIGHTS of Our First Semester
by Luisa Martins | December 9, 2025
As we wrap up a vibrant and joy-filled first semester at Global Village Project, we’re reflecting on the moments that helped our students learn, grow, connect, and shine. In the spirit of celebration, we’re thrilled to share “The 12 HighLIGHTS of Semester One,” a tribute to the people, experiences, and opportunities that made these past months unforgettable.
A Show-Stopping Student Showcase & Learning Gallery
Our students took the stage to sing, perform, and present what they’ve learned this semester. Their confidence, creativity, and pride lit up the room, and reminded us why this community is so special.
A Career Week Filled With Possibilities
Students met inspiring professionals like Flight Attendants from Delta Air Lines, a banker from Truist Bank, a journalist, dentist, lawyer, nurse, pharmacist, entrepreneur, a muralist, photographer, construction engineer, and even a makeup artist! Career Week opened doors, sparked curiosity, and helped students imagine what their futures might hold.
Construction Begins on Our New School Building
A major milestone! The first steps of construction are officially underway, and we remain on track to move into our new school home this summer. Every classroom built represents more room to learn.
Volunteer Appreciation Week: Celebrating Our 75+ Weekly Volunteers
We honored the dedicated volunteers and mentors who show up for GVP week after week with handcrafted gifts from the girls, food, and thanks. GVP was founded in 2009 by volunteers, and to this day, volunteers and mentors remain at the heart of our school. Their steady support enriches our classrooms, strengthens relationships, and makes our mission possible.
A Record-Breaking Welcome Walk
On November 1st, 300+ supporters joined us for our annual five-mile Welcome Walk from Clarkston to Decatur, and we surpassed our fundraising goal! Together, we celebrated community, resilience, and the journey our students take each day.
A Visit From Mayor Burkes of Clarkston
Mayor Burkes joined us on campus to meet students, learn about our programs, and see firsthand the power of refugee girls finding their voice through education. Girl power!
Family Conferences That Strengthened School-Home Connections
We welcomed families for conferences filled with warmth, collaboration, and shared celebration of student growth. We discussed our students’ academic progress and social & emotional well-being with their families. Engaging families with these conversations, with the help of our amazing interpreters, is core to GVP’s student-centered approach.
Form 3’s Overnight Trip to the Hike Inn
Form 3 explored the southern highlands during their Life Science trip to the Hike Inn. Students examined habitat adaptations, learned about reptiles, amphibians, and mammals of the Appalachians, and saw sustainable practices like composting and water conservation in action.
Form 2’s Sojourn Adventures Social & Emotional Learning Experience
Form 2 spent a day at Sojourn Adventures building trust, practicing teamwork, developing creative problem-solving skills, and discovering how effort and practice lead to growth.
Fire Safety & Community Preparedness at the Decatur Fire Station
All Forms visited the Decatur City Fire Station to meet first responders and learn essential fire-prevention and safety skills. Students practiced what to do in an emergency and gained confidence in keeping themselves and their communities safe.
Form 1’s Trip to the Dunwoody Preservation Trust (and Homemade Butter!)
Students stepped back in time to explore local history, and even learned how to churn butter! This hands-on experience brought learning to life in the most delicious way.
Ensemble Performs at the Pine Lake Festival
Our Ensemble showcased their hard work through a beautiful performance at the Pine Lake Festival. Students practiced rhythm, melody, and cultural expression, and shared their gifts with the wider community.
Every moment from this list reflects the heart of GVP: bold learning, joyful community, and the brilliance of refugee girls rising. Thank you to everyone who walked with us, taught with us, volunteered with us, and believed in our mission.
Here’s to even more growth, connection, and highLIGHTS in the semester ahead.
