In the aftermath of the devastating earthquake that struck Central Italy in August, the small town of Arquata del Tronto became a symbol of both loss and resilience. On this challenging path to recovery, education played a vital role. The non-profit organization Alveare per il Sociale, through its project S.O.S. Scuola, took part in the delivery of new school modules for 100 students. Their contribution went beyond infrastructure. They brought creativity, emotional support, and a sense of community through a series of engaging and inclusive activities.
The new school facility began construction in September. With the help of the Alpini corps, foundations were laid, and within weeks, a prefabricated building was erected. The structure includes eight classrooms and a cafeteria space, covering 580 square meters. Designed to be earthquake-resistant and fully insulated, the school provides a safe environment where students can once again learn, play, and grow. This crucial project was made possible thanks to funds raised by Fondazione Francesca Rava – NPH Italia Onlus, Corriere della Sera, and Tg La7. The school was dedicated to the memory of eight young victims of the quake: Marisol, Gabriele, Giulia, Elisa, Giordano, Arianna, Tommaso, and Lucrezia.
S.O.S. Scuola had already made impactful contributions in cities like Palermo, Rome, L’Aquila, and Naples. Its arrival in Arquata marked a continuation of its mission to use creativity as a tool for rebuilding lives and communities. As part of this initiative, artist Gianluca Raro returned to lend his artistic talents once again. Known for his vibrant murals in schools, including a major project in Naples, Raro transformed the previously grey school walls into vivid, colorful scenes, instilling a sense of joy and vitality.
Alongside him, Roman rapper Kento conducted a rap music workshop. Kento, who had previously released the album “Da Sud” through a grassroots crowdfunding campaign, guided students through writing and performing their own rhymes. His approach combined fun and education, helping children express themselves through rhythm and poetry.
Another creative corner of the program was the percussion lab led by Quetzalcoatl, where students experienced the richness of Mexican musical traditions. This activity offered a unique opportunity for cultural exchange and sensory learning, helping children explore new forms of expression.
Additional workshops focused on emotional resilience and nature. One such activity, run by Giocartelab, introduced students to the concept of resilience through hands-on games and creative play, encouraging them to process emotions and rediscover a sense of safety. Another, led by Camilla Lubriani, engaged children in crafting with fallen leaves, helping them reconnect with nature in a gentle, reflective way.
Staying true to its name, “S.O.S. – Scambiamoci Orizzonti per Sognare” (Let’s Exchange Horizons to Dream), the initiative included participation from the Sarandì Art High School of Rome and the Comprehensive Institute of Arsoli. Students from these institutions contributed to the project by developing a web radio segment. They conducted video interviews with participants and helped revive a local school publication, “L’Eco del Vettore,” fostering communication and collective memory within the community.
For Alveare per il Sociale, the reconstruction of a school is never just about building walls. It is about rebuilding relationships, trust, and a future. As the organization’s presidents Paolo Bianchini and Paola Rota explained, the future depends on the decisions we make today. They emphasized that a school building is only a structure, but “school” as a living, breathing space is created every day through participation, passion, and love from the entire community.
This spirit of hope and perseverance was echoed in the words of Arquata’s mayor, Aleandro Petrucci, who stated, “Courage does not tremble.” Despite ongoing aftershocks, fears, and the arrival of the first winter snow, the people of Arquata have shown unwavering strength. In the eyes of the students who took part in this initiative, there was no hesitation—only a deep desire to begin again.
S.O.S. Scuola came to Arquata to walk alongside them, not only to provide resources, but to listen, create, and imagine a future together.