At Na’atik, learning does not stop in the classroom. While language is at the center of what we do, we also believe curiosity, creativity, and access to knowledge are just as important in helping students grow. Thanks to the continued support of our donors, our library has become a space where students can explore topics beyond English and Spanish, discover new interests, and connect learning with the world around them.

This month, that journey took us all the way to the stars.

We recently welcomed Julio Alexander, a young astronomy enthusiast originally from Felipe Carrillo Puerto, who visited our library to share his passion for space with some of our students. Through a relaxed and engaging conversation, Julio introduced students to fascinating topics in astronomy in a way that felt accessible, exciting, and easy to connect with.

During the session, students learned about the planets in our solar system, the Earth’s moon, and the many moons orbiting other planets. Julio also explained something many students had never heard before: today, scientists have specific requirements for what can officially be classified as a planet. Naturally, this led to questions about Pluto and why its classification changed over time.

One of the most exciting parts of the activity was the opportunity to learn about telescopes. Thanks to a telescope recently added to our library through donor support, students were able to explore how telescopes work, the different types that exist, and how they are used to observe the night sky. For many of them, this was their first introduction to astronomy equipment and space observation.

Julio Alexander and Na’atik Students 2026

Julio also spoke about the three stars many people in Mexico know as “Los Reyes Magos,” internationally recognized as Orion’s Belt. Moments like these helped students connect scientific concepts with cultural references they already knew from everyday life, making the experience feel both educational and personal.

Activities like this are possible because of the people who believe in community learning and continue supporting spaces like our library. Every workshop, conversation, book, and educational resource helps create opportunities for students to discover new interests, ask questions, and imagine bigger possibilities for themselves and their future.

At Na’atik, we believe education is not only about learning a language. It is also about building curiosity, confidence, and access to experiences that inspire people to keep learning.

If you would like to help us continue creating activities like this for our students and community, we invite you to support Na’atik and the programs that make these experiences possible.

Because sometimes, learning begins with simply looking up at the stars.

To learn more about Na’atik’s English language program for local and Indigenous students in Felipe Carrillo Puerto, visit our Impact Page. We are only able to provide this much needed program thanks to the support of generous donors and the funds raised from our award winning Maya and Spanish Immersion Program. If you would like to support our mission please consider donating today or take a look at our immersion programsand online class packages.

LOOKING BEYOND LANGUAGE: HOW YOUR SUPPORT HELPS BRING LEARNING TO LIFE AT NA’ATIK’S LIBRARY

Faces of Na'atik: Yaret