This project is part of the Black History Month celebration because it supports a Black teacher or a school where the majority of the students are Black.
My Students
As the only American Sign Language Teacher at my school, I am privileged with getting to teach the same students two-years in a row! I absolutely love how I am able to build such strong, solid relationships with my students and watch them grow during this time. 60% of my student households fall below the federal poverty-line, yet these young adults still maintain excellence in performance and attitude.
Providing the opportunity to bring these hard-working and dedicated students abroad has been a dream of mine for so long.
Due to limited access to technology, transportation, food and much more, the experiences of many students are few. Last year, I took a group to our local zoo (roughly 15 minutes away from campus) and not only was it the majorities first time going, but many thought it was best field trip ever! Seeing their excitement of traveling to a new place put me on the fast track to finding ways for them to explore beyond their wildest dreams.
My Project
In July 2019, my students will become international travelers. Many have never explored further than the 10-15 mile radius of their homes due to lack of transportation, food, money and resources. It is my mission to provide my low-income students with the same possibilities and advantages of other students their age because they deserve the same opportunities regardless of race, gender or household finances. Most importantly, I want my students to experience other cultures, languages and lifestyles that vary from their own.
Aside from exploring the vast beauty of Paris, we will be visiting the Institut National de Jeunes Sourds de Paris, the first Deaf school in the entire world.
The foundation for American Sign Language has strong roots at this school, as one of their former teachers is responsible to bringing and establishing Deaf education in America. With this invaluable experience, it is my hope that students will not only gain independence but also the desire to continue their explorations and become global ambassadors.
All donations received will be divided evenly among all enrolled student travelers. These donations will be used to supplement meals, souvenirs, tips/gratuities and any additional expenses outside of the total cost for the trip. It is my main priority that no traveler goes hungry or deals with the embarrassment of not being able to fully support themselves while over seas.
DonorsChoose is the most trusted classroom funding site for teachers.
As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. This classroom request for funding was created by Ms. Konopa and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
