Founding Vision and Leadership
Futuro Verde, established in 2008 on Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula, has evolved into a distinguished bilingual international school offering education from preschool through 12th grade. Founded by Ekaterina Barquero Chaves, Andrea Drost, and Astrid Schultz, the school was conceived with a vision to provide holistic, personalized education emphasizing sustainability and environmental stewardship.
Ekaterina Barquero Chaves
Founding Teacher/Director 2008-2010
Ekaterina Barquero Chaves served as the inaugural teacher and director from 2008 to 2010. She integrated her expertise in psychology, education, and the arts to implement personalized teaching methods tailored to each child's strengths and weaknesses, fostering an engaging and effective learning environment. After her tenure at Futuro Verde, Ekaterina continued her professional journey in San José.
Astrid Schultz
Founder Futuro Verde
Board Vice President 2008-2010
Astrid Schultz, originally from Germany, was the board's vice president from 2008 to 2010. With extensive experience in concert production and tour management for Italian music bands worldwide, Astrid settled in Montezuma in 1994. Fluent in four languages and skilled in translations, proofreading, and research, she managed the school's budget with transparency, fostering trust within the parent community. In 2012, Astrid and her daughter relocated to Germany.
Andrea Drost
Founder Futuro Verde
Board President 2008-2010
Board Treasurer 2013
Andrea’s strength is conceptual and structural thinking. She developed and wrote the project plan, with support from Astrid, and coordinated the Futuro Verde project. Andrea has shifted her focus on structural changes of the Assocación and the fundraising to facilitate the development towards the “big picture” of the community project. In 2013 Andrea and her daughter moved to Germany.
Growth and Development
Starting with just three students in 2008, Futuro Verde has experienced remarkable growth, now serving nearly 200 students from diverse backgrounds, including local Costa Rican children and international students. This expansion reflects the school's commitment to fostering a multicultural learning environment.
Academic Excellence and International Recognition
In 2018, Futuro Verde achieved authorization as an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School, offering the IB Diploma Programme for students in grades 10 through 12. This milestone underscores the school's dedication to providing a rigorous, globally recognized education that emphasizes critical thinking, intercultural understanding, and lifelong learning.
Environmental Commitment and Sustainability Initiatives
Embedded in Futuro Verde's ethos is a profound commitment to environmental sustainability. The school has implemented various initiatives to promote ecological awareness and responsibility among students:
- Green Certification: Futuro Verde holds the highest green certification in Costa Rica, reflecting its adherence to sustainable practices and environmental education.
- Environmental Education: Students engage in environmental science classes annually, participating in activities such as reforestation projects, beach clean-ups, and sustainability workshops, instilling a deep understanding of conservation and ecological responsibility.
- Campus Sustainability: The school has implemented measures like banning single-use plastics in the school snack shop and promoting waste reduction, recycling, and energy conservation on campus.
Community Engagement and Financial Accessibility
As a nonprofit institution, Futuro Verde is committed to inclusivity and diversity. Approximately 35% of students receive some form of financial assistance, ensuring that quality education is accessible to a broader segment of the community. This approach fosters a rich, multicultural environment where students from various backgrounds learn collaboratively.
Volunteer and Outreach Programs
Futuro Verde offers dynamic volunteering programs, inviting individuals worldwide to contribute to the school’s mission. Volunteers engage in various capacities, from classroom assistance to environmental projects, enhancing the school’s programs and fostering cross-cultural exchange.
Through dedicated leadership, a commitment to academic excellence, environmental stewardship, and community engagement, Futuro Verde has established itself as a model institution nurturing global citizens equipped to address contemporary challenges with knowledge, empathy, and responsibility.
