Language That Opens Doors
In Playa del Carmen, English proficiency is more than just a skill—it’s a step toward economic opportunity, higher education, and personal growth. In a region where tourism and international business play a central role, being bilingual can drastically improve a young person’s career prospects.
Recognizing this, KKIS launched a formal English language component as part of our scholarship programs. The goal: ensure every KKIS scholar has the language tools to thrive in school, work, and life.
A Program with Purpose
Led by KKIS’s English Program Coordinator, Professor Dayra Isabel Cano Vargas, this structured program aligns with academic goals and prepares students for real-world challenges through consistent, measurable language development.
“With this program, we’re not just teaching grammar—we’re empowering students to speak, lead, and access opportunities they never thought possible.”
— Professor Dayra Vargas
Why It Matters
For many students in Playa del Carmen, English instruction ends after the second year of high school. Others receive limited classroom hours with minimal speaking practice. Without outside support, they fall behind peers from wealthier schools.
KKIS bridges this gap through a comprehensive, curriculum-based program that serves:
- Third-year High school Scholarship recipients in both modular and regular programs (mandatory)
- University scholarship recipients whose degree plans do not include English (strongly encouraged)
-
Scholarship recipients at any level who voluntarily wish to strengthen their english skills
Program Objectives
- Fluency in Communication
Students learn to understand and participate in everyday conversations, academic discussions, and workplace interactions. - Vocabulary and Grammar Mastery
Lessons focus on high-frequency language and grammatical accuracy across writing and speaking. - Career Readiness
Scholars develop the ability to interview, write resumes, and interact professionally in English.
Academic Preparation
English instruction supports coursework, exam preparation, and access to external scholarship opportunities.
How It Works
- Students are grouped by language level
- Classes are held weekly throughout the academic year
- Instruction is delivered exclusively by qualified KKIS English teachers
- Curriculum includes written, spoken, and listening components
- Progress is tracked through assessments, projects, and participation
Real-World Impact
“Before this program, I didn’t feel comfortable speaking English. Now I help tourists at work—and I’ve started dreaming bigger.”
— KKIS High School Student
“English helped me get an internship in hospitality. That’s something I never thought I’d do.”
— KKIS University Student
By graduation, students report improved confidence, increased job readiness, and deeper connection to their global community.
Your Support Makes This Possible
The KKIS English Program is made available at no cost to students thanks to donor support.
Your gift provides:
- English teacher salaries
- Curriculum development and educational materials
- Classroom tools and progress tracking
- Student workbooks and printed exercises
- Ongoing support from our English Program Coordinator
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this program required for all KKIS students?
Yes, for third-year high school students. For university students, it is strongly encouraged unless their degree already includes English coursework.
Who teaches the classes?
All classes are taught by professional English instructors under the supervision of our English Program Coordinator.
Where are the English classes held?
Classes are held at KKIS’s dedicated learning space in central Playa del Carmen for most students. For those who live outside the city, sessions are conducted remotely via Google Meet. This hybrid model allows all scholars to access consistent, high-quality English instruction regardless of where they live.
Help Students Find Their Voice
Your donation helps ensure every KKIS scholar has access to language skills that can transform their future.