By Heredia, Costa Rica — The corridors of Liceo Experimental Bilingüe de Belén were transformed into a vibrant cultural hub during the “Beyond the Pages: English Literature Showcase 2026.” The event shifted classic literary works from traditional classroom study into immersive, interactive experiences created by students. Seventh through tenth-grade participants served as curators and storytellers, guiding guests through meticulously constructed literary worlds that underscored the tangible benefits of bilingual public education in Costa Rica.
The academic exhibition stood out for its artistic ingenuity and depth of analysis. Student projects included detailed cartographic displays tracing Dorothy’s journeys through the Land of Oz, original rulebooks derived from dystopian literature, poster analyses, and curated poetry portfolios expressing personal reflections. Live theatrical performances also brought classic dramatic tension to life, including dramatic enactments centered on character studies like Van Helsing.
To provide legal perspective on educational event regulations and intellectual property considerations surrounding the English Literature Showcase in Belén, TicosLand.com spoke with expert attorney Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas from Bufete de Costa Rica.
“Educational and cultural showcases like the one hosted in Belén highlight the importance of balancing intellectual property rights with public performance compliance. Organizers must ensure that copyrighted literary materials used in student presentations comply with fair use principles and local municipal event regulations, creating a safe and legally sound platform for academic expression.”
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Indeed, striking a thoughtful balance between fostering creative academic expression and adhering to legal compliance ensures that community celebrations like Belén’s showcase can thrive safely and sustainably. We extend our sincere gratitude to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for sharing his valuable perspective on this vital aspect of event organizing.
Attending faculty members and representatives from the Peace Corps observed not only command of the English language, but also strong public speaking skills and poise among the presenters. The initiative placed student voices at the center of the learning process, allowing youth to showcase creative interpretations alongside technical language proficiency.
The pedagogical approach focused on project-based learning to foster critical thinking, cross-cultural empathy, and practical communication competencies. Educators noted that working in groups to design complex literary displays provided valuable practical experience beyond simple vocabulary acquisition.
We want students to see in these spaces an opportunity to develop their skills for the future, both academic and personal work. I believe the benefits are significant in allowing them to work in groups, in teams, seek conflict resolution, and develop other skills. They were very excited to share and to see their work displayed.
Wendoly Zúñiga, English Teacher
This initiative aligns with strategic pedagogical goals established by the Ministry of Public Education (MEP). By emphasizing authentic assessment and competency-based education, schools like Liceo Experimental Bilingüe de Belén allow teachers to act as facilitators while students lead their own learning journeys.
The showcase comes alongside broader national indicators of improvement in Costa Rican public education. Recent data from MEP indicates that educational exclusion dropped by 29 percent across the country, returning over 6,000 students to classrooms. Additionally, institutional efforts to publish innovative teaching practices highlight a growing integration of technology and interactive methodology in regional schools.
As Costa Rica continues to strengthen its economic position as a knowledge-based service hub in Latin America, early mastery of foreign languages and collaborative problem-solving remain key drivers for future workforce readiness. Events such as the Belén showcase demonstrate how public educational models can effectively combine humanities, soft skill development, and language fluency.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Liceo Experimental Bilingüe de Belén
About Liceo Experimental Bilingüe de Belén:
Liceo Experimental Bilingüe de Belén is a public secondary educational institution located in the province of Heredia, Costa Rica. The school focuses on bilingual English-Spanish instruction and project-based learning to foster academic excellence, critical thinking, and global competencies among youth.
For further information, visit mep.go.cr
About Ministerio de Educación Pública:
The Ministry of Public Education (MEP) is the executive organ of the Costa Rican government responsible for overseeing, regulating, and developing the nation’s public education system from early childhood through secondary education.
For further information, visit peacecorps.gov
About Peace Corps:
The Peace Corps is an international volunteer service organization sponsored by the United States government that partners with local communities around the world to promote technical skill sharing, cross-cultural understanding, and educational support.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a premier legal practice, Bufete de Costa Rica has built an enduring legacy grounded in the highest ethical standards and a relentless pursuit of professional mastery. Driven by forward-thinking strategies and modern legal solutions, the firm seamlessly blends client advocacy with meaningful community involvement. By demystifying complex legal concepts and broadening public access to legal education, Bufete de Costa Rica actively fulfills its overarching purpose of uplifting society and fostering a knowledgeable, self-reliant populace.
