Creativity Across Borders: Palm Springs Sister Cities Expands Student Exchanges with Art, Architecture, and Heart

The spirit of creativity is alive and thriving at Palm Springs Sister Cities—and it’s crossing borders in the most inspiring ways.

On Thursday April 24, magic unfolded when second and third graders from Vista Del Monte Elementary School connected via Zoom with Marco DeBrayes, a master Mojigangas artist from San Miguel de Allende. Sponsored by Palm Springs Sister Cities Committee, the workshop wasn’t just a lesson in art—it was a living, breathing celebration of culture, imagination, and connection.

San Miguel de Allende Artist, Marco DeBrayes Teaching a Mojigangas Class to Students from Vista del Monte School via Zoom — San Miguel de Allende Artist, Marco DeBrayes Teaching a *Mojigangas* Class to Students from Vista del Monte School via Zoom

The excitement was electric as Marco shared the traditions and techniques behind the towering, whimsical puppets that are the heartbeat of festivals in San Miguel. Under the leadership of the extraordinary teacher Jayro Alcantar Armenta, from the PSUSD Dual Immersion Program, students dove into their own Mojigangas-inspired creations. Even better? A video documentary of the project is now available for the entire community to experience and share!

Teacher Jayro Alcantar Armenta (PSUSD Dual Immersion Program)

Next Up: Modernism Architecture Meets Art in a Box

The creativity doesn’t stop there. Starting Monday, April 28, Palm Springs Sister Cities Committee launches another exciting student exchange: the Modernism Architecture "Art in a Box" Project!

Fourth and fifth graders from Newland School in San Miguel de Allende and Vista Del Monte Elementary will connect via Zoom to explore the world of architecture, design, and creativity. Special thanks to Peter Blackburn from Palm Springs Modern Committee for partnering with us—his expertise is adding incredible depth to this hands-on learning experience.

Mark your calendars:

On May 20th at 9:00 AM (PST), we will celebrate this cross-cultural journey with an End-of-Event Celebration! We are honored to have our Mayor Ron deHarte, city dignitaries, and Palm Springs Sister Cities Board Members joining to witness the impact of these beautiful connections.

Building Bridges Through Education

These programs are more than just projects. They are lifelines of understanding, creativity, and opportunity for our students. They are shaping global citizens—and giving them tools to succeed in a rapidly changing world.

But we can't do it without you.Your support ensures that these exchanges continue to grow, reach more students, and open even more doors to the world.