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In July 2025, the Vallarta School for Girls embarked on a bold new chapter: the construction of a larger, purpose-built campus that will allow the school to welcome more students and offer even richer programs.
Since breaking ground, the transformation has been remarkable. On Calle Golondrinas in Colonia Los Sauces, architect and builder Alfonso Aguilar and his team at Home Improvement PV have been steadily bringing the vision to life. The concrete for the second floor has been poured, walls are going up, and what was once an empty lot is becoming a vibrant new home for learning.
“We feel incredibly proud to be part of this project,” says Aguilar. “Knowing this building will shape the education and future of so many students makes every day on the job meaningful.”
Founded under the Girls Education Fund Foundation, the Vallarta School for Girls provides a bilingual learning environment designed to give students the strongest possible start in life. The new school—scheduled to open in fall 2026—will feature modern classrooms, a well-stocked library, a gymnasium, a wellness center, a music room, a computer lab, a rooftop gathering space, and a garden.
This expanded space won’t just mean more room; it means more possibilities. The campus will allow the school to grow, innovate, and introduce new programs that support the girls academically, emotionally, and socially.
A generous donor has funded the creation of the wellness center, where students will learn tools that will serve them both now and in adulthood: nutrition, yoga, meditation, and other practices that support a healthy, grounded, and confident life.
At the heart of this effort is founder and board chairperson Francie Nguyen, who is leading the capital campaign to build the new school. With a goal of $500,000 USD, Francie and her team have already raised just over $400,000 USD—80% of the total.
“We’ve had tremendous support so far, and it’s been inspiring to see how many people believe in our mission and in this new campus,” Francie shares. “But we’re not finished yet. We still have 20%—about $100,000 USD—to go, and every contribution helps us cross that finish line.”
Francie also knows that the work doesn’t end when the doors open. The new campus, with its wellness center and expanded program offerings, will require ongoing support from donors committed to funding these transformative programs year after year.
“When we talk about the new programs we’re designing—especially the ones that will really set our girls apart—the excitement from donors is contagious,” she says. “It gives me confidence that the community is just as committed as we are to making this school an even more extraordinary place for every student who walks through our doors.”
Donations and sponsorships completely fund the Vallarta School for Girls.
Fundraising Without Borders
To meet both capital and operating needs, the Vallarta School for Girls has expanded its fundraising internationally. Supporters of the school have recently hosted private events in Seattle, Dallas, and Austin, drawing more than 60 guests across three gatherings. These intimate events raised funds for the construction campaign and student sponsorships, helping ensure that more girls have access to a high-quality education.
One gathering took place in Austin, TX, at the historic Paggi House, overlooking Lady Bird Lake. Hosted by Deborah Cole—author, photographer, and board member—the afternoon brought together a group of friends, many of them former teachers and educators. Guests enjoyed drinks and appetizers provided by the chic Loren Hotel, watched a short video about the school, and listened as Francie presented the story, spirit, and impact of the Vallarta School for Girls.
Also in attendance were long-time supporters Jim and Susan Donnelly, who divide their time between Austin and Puerto Vallarta, and shared with guests why they have chosen to invest in the school’s mission.
“I believe that small, private events—whether in Puerto Vallarta, the U.S., or Canada—are essential for the school as it grows,” says Deborah. “People are naturally curious about life in Puerto Vallarta, and the school is a powerful way to show how visitors and expats are giving back and standing with the local community.”
If you are interested in hosting a private event to support the school—either in Puerto Vallarta or in your home city—contact Francie at francie@girlsedfund.com. Her team has created a helpful guide and ready-to-use materials to make hosting an inspiring event simple and rewarding.
Must-Attend Events in 2026
The school has a lineup of exciting fundraising events in February and March 2026. These are not only some of Puerto Vallarta’s most anticipated social events—they are essential to helping the school meet its fundraising goals.
Kevin-Anthony: Elevated – February 22, 2026
On February 22 at 7:00 PM, strong school supporter and advisory board member Kevin-Anthony presents Kevin-Anthony: Elevated, a live concert with the 44-piece Orquesta Sinfónica Vallarta and Vallarta’s own Roxsand Band, as a benefit for the Vallarta School for Girls.
This evening of soul, Broadway energy, symphonic sound, and local rhythm promises to be one of the musical highlights of the year—and may include a few surprise guests. Tickets are expected to sell out quickly, so early booking is highly recommended.
Black and White Gala – March 2, 2026
On March 2, the Vallarta School for Girls hosts the elegant Black and White Gala. Event chair Michelle Burnett is already hard at work securing sponsors, silent auction items, and special details that will make this year’s gala truly unforgettable.
“We’re so excited about this year’s Black and White Gala,” says Burnett. “We’ve made some significant enhancements from last year, including a gourmet buffet dinner and open bar for guests at the beautiful, oceanfront Sayan Tropical Condominiums.”
Billed as an evening that’s enchanting, elevated, and exquisitely unforgettable, the gala features powerhouse entertainers including Diego Guerrero + Los Martinis, Kim Kuzma, Effie, Alison Lo, and Kim Archer. With this lineup, you can expect a full dance floor and a night that people will be talking about long after the last song.
How to Get Involved
More information and tickets for these events can be found at https://girlsedfund.org/event-tickets. Individuals and businesses interested in becoming sponsors can also learn more at https://girlsedfund.org/sponsor-event. Sponsorships are a powerful way to demonstrate your commitment to education, opportunity, and the Puerto Vallarta community.
While 2025 was a landmark year for the Vallarta School for Girls, 2026 promises to be even more extraordinary—with the opening of the new campus and a calendar of events that not only support a vital cause, but also showcase the spirit, talent, and generosity that make Puerto Vallarta such a remarkable place to call home.To learn more, make a donation, sponsor an event, or purchase event tickets, visit the Girls Education Fund and Vallarta School for Girls website at www.girlsedfund.org.
This story is from the Winter 2026 issue of Out & About PV. Check out the complete print edition here.
Esta publicación también está disponible en: English Español
