Welcome to el Jardín!
El Jardín is a Non-profit School & Scholarship Program for the Community of Chacala, Mexico. Founded in 2012 by Mar de Jade Community Projects, it became the first independent non-profit school to offer quality education for low-income kids in our community.
Currently nearly 80% of children in Chacala are benefiting from our Preschool and Primary Program.
Preschool
Practical Life
Sensorial Work
Language
Math Thinking
English Class
Cooking Class
Gardening & Nature
Yoga & Movement
Music & Play
Art & Expression
Primary & MIDDLE SCHOOL
Cultural Areas
Science & Technology
Language
Math
English Class
Recycling Workshop
Community & Nature
Yoga & Movement
Music & Play
Art & Expression
About Chacala
Chacala is a small fishing village on the Pacific coast of Mexico in the state of Nayarit, about 90 km north of Puerto Vallarta.
Population: With approximately 700 full-time residents, the population can swell to over 900 during the winter with part-time residents from US and Canada.
Economy: Chacala's economy is mainly based on fishing and tourism (hotels, vacation rentals, restaurants, and other services).
* The approximate monthly income per family is $12,000 pesos ($ 650 USD)
Education: During the 2024-2025 School year the attendance by grade in Montessori Chacala is:
• Preschool: 12 students • Primary: 38 students • Middle School: 26 students
Why Chacala?
Many local children come from homes with patterns of abuse, alcoholism and neglect. Local teens are at risk for early pregnancy, alcohol or drug abuse and dropping out of school.
We believe a generational shift can take place by creating a nurturing environment for the youngest members of our community, a place where they can flourish and develop as WHOLE human beings (socially, emotionally, intellectually & physically).
About MDJ Community Projects
MDJ Community Projects was created by Mar de Jade, a Wellness & Vacation Retreat Center involved in community development for over 30 years.
The mission is simple:
"To provide better opportunities for our community in their most basic needs: education and employment."
Currently Mar de Jade Community Projects supports three projects:
TAO de Jade
An After School Program for at-risk kids in the farming town of Las Varas, Nayarit.
El Jardín
A Non-Profit School for low-income kinds in Chacala, Nayarit.
El Rancho
Organic Farm and Trade School for teens and adults in need at La Cuata, Nayarit.
