Omar Machado Shares His Aspirations for GovsPLUS

Omar Machado Shares His Aspirations for GovsPLUS

Omar Machado began his journey with GovsPLUS nearly eight years ago when he became associate director, working alongside his wife (and Govs Spanish teacher), Michelle de la Guardia. Their dedication and year-round mentorship of GovsPLUS alumni have nurtured the program's growth and success.

With Michelle entering her new role as Dean of Multicultural Education at the Academy, Govs was fortunate to hire Omar as director of GovsPLUS, where his passion for education, mentorship, and vision will help the program continue to flourish.

Omar earned his BA at the University of Puerto Rico and has held several teaching and administrative positions throughout his career, including at Buckingham Browne & Nichols School in Cambridge and Shore Country Day School in Beverly, where he also coordinated several diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives.

GovsPLUS (Powerful Learners Unlocking Success) is a tuition-free academic enrichment program that partners Govs with motivated middle school students from Lawrence, Massachusetts. The program helps students reach their potential inside and outside the classroom. It begins with a five-week summer experience and continues throughout the school year with monthly opportunities to connect.

"Leading GovsPLUS fills me with boundless excitement as we empower young minds to reach their full potential through education and mentorship,” says Omar. “I love this program for its unwavering commitment to shaping brighter futures and fostering a community of growth and opportunity."

Omar believes in the transformative power of experiential learning and creating an environment where rising eighth and ninth graders can explore, grow, and discover their unique potential through carefully designed activities and workshops. "We equip our students with tools that extend far beyond our core academic goals. Last summer was a beautiful illustration of this philosophy, with every aspect of the program crafted to inspire confidence, curiosity, and connection among our students," he said.

Omar recalls the schooner adventure out of Newburyport last summer. Many of the students had never been on a boat before, let alone worked as a crew, hoisting sails, navigating with maps, and following the captain’s orders. The experience was not just about learning nautical skills but about teamwork, resilience, and embracing the unknown. "Watching our students immerse themselves in this adventure—seeing their eyes light up with wonder and pride—was a powerful reminder of why we do this work," said Omar.

A cornerstone of GovsPLUS is fostering confidence in academic settings and in life in general. Omar's professional experience coaching public speaking and running theater workshops has helped him develop this aspect of the curriculum. "Students find their voice and gain confidence on stage or in group discussions. They learn to command attention, express their ideas, and inspire others—all vital skills as they prepare for leadership roles, secondary school interviews, and future opportunities," says Omar.

"The program also recognizes the importance of wellness in personal growth, so we incorporate activities like archery and volleyball into our program," says Omar. "Archery, in particular, serves as a metaphor for life: it requires focus, patience, and trust in oneself. Students learn to breathe deeply, center their thoughts, and release their arrows with intention. It’s a calming yet empowering practice that nurtures both the body and mind."

 

The program culminates with a closing ceremony, during which families, friends, and members of the Govs community gather to witness scholars present their learning. "This event is as much about celebration as it is about growth. Standing in front of an audience is a new and vulnerable experience for many students, yet they rise to the occasion with grace and courage. It's a magical experience for everyone," says Omar. 

With the program in its eleventh year, Omar is gratified to see the ripple effect of GovsPLUS through alumni engagement. Last summer, several GovsPLUS alums, including Andre Rocker '22 and Eric Berard '21, returned to Byfield to mentor, share stories, and inspire current scholars. "Both Eric and Andre come from humble beginnings, and to see them now as successful college students, giving their time and wisdom to the next generation, is deeply moving," said Omar.

"Leading GovsPLUS is more than a role for me—it is a calling," he added. "To witness our scholars and alumni grow is humbling and inspiring. Together, with the support of our community, we are shaping brighter futures and creating a legacy of empowerment for our students."

I love this program for its unwavering commitment to shaping brighter futures and fostering a community of growth and opportunity.