The “Bairro-escola” (Learning Neighborhood) is a set of social technologies that contribute to the integral development of individuals, communities and cities. Through networking and actions that promote connection and integration of students, families, schools, civic organizations, companies and governments to provide integral education, the “Bairro-escola” extends learning opportunities beyond the school and improves communities.
The project’s first actions took place in areas of high social vulnerability in the city of Sao Paulo, where dozens of initiatives involving culture, communication, technology and community actions were developed. Throughout these experiences, the organization systematized the lessons shared across the country in training sessions – with teachers, students, community leaders and public officials – and in publications and digital content platforms, influencing and encouraging reflections, new initiatives and public policies.
Since 2004, the Bairro-escola technology has been recognized and awarded by UNICEF, the Brazilian Ministry of Education, Harvard University and Qatar Foundation. Several public programs in Brazil were built using its concepts and methodologies, including the “More Education” Program (Brazilian Ministry of Education), which reached 49,000 public schools, and many municipal programs from different regions of the country.
