One of Kingswood Oxford’s most meaningful and distinctive traditions is the annual service trip to Tobatí, Paraguay, which takes place each March during spring break. Since 1999, Upper School Spanish teacher Ronald and Upper School math teacher Denise Garcia have led Team Tobatí, giving KO students the opportunity to immerse themselves in Paraguayan culture, improving the educational infrastructure in the local “pueblo,” and forming lifelong friendships along the way. Over the years, the program has grown in both size and impact, with the 2026 trip being one of the most memorable yet.
Team Tobatí began as a small group of 21 students and a handful of adult leaders back when it first began in 1999. Now, it has expanded into a program that brings an average of between 60 and 80 students to Tobatí each year. The trip centers on cultural exchange between American and Paraguayan students while also focusing on meaningful service work.
KO students participate in a variety of activities such as working in brick factories, supporting the local community school, the Macchi School, renovating gardens and classrooms, and visiting host families’ homes to share meals and their daily routines.
Senior and returner Sanya Sadiq spoke about her experience on the service trip and how valuable the opportunity is. “This year was my second time traveling to Tobatí, and it is nothing short of transformative,” she said. “It’s really special to be able to be living in the homes of host families, eating their traditional meals, and participating in work that helps the greater community.”
Sanya was a part of the work group, or “equipo,” Rebeldes and truly valued the time spent with her group mates and the close bonds she made. “Whether it was working in the brick factory, carving wood turtles, or learning our dance for the dance competition, I always formed wonderful connections with my group mates,” Sanya noted.
While many students choose to return to Tobatí multiple times throughout their high school careers, the trip also welcomes many first-time participants each year. Senior and first timer Cameron Thomas related how excited he was to be part of this year’s service trip. “I had never done anything like this before, so I wasn’t sure what to expect,” Cam explained. “The chance to travel abroad and participate in activities I would have never done and meet new people was something I will remember from the trip.”
Each student truly leaves their Tobatí experience making a mark on the community as well as always gaining something in return, whether that be perspective or connection.
Mr. Garcia also emphasized the importance of participating in service work in high school. “I think high school students are at the perfect point in their lives to do something like this,” he said. “They take a risk in a controlled setting, experience a different culture, and do something good and really feel good about it.” Team Tobatí also plants a seed for students to continue to do charitable work in college and beyond.
Team Tobatí is more than a trip; it is a call to action and a defining example of one of KO’s core values of caring beyond self. Students carry valuable experiences with them long after the trip ends, shaping them to continue to be meaningful members of their respective communities. With an open mind and heart, todo es posible.
