After 2 years of teaching in a small North Carolina community, I’m making the transition from teaching English to teach Broadcast Journalism and Student Leadership so I can help launch a student newspaper at our school,something our students haven't had for many years. The student body response has already been tremendously positive at the news.

In a time when student apathy and disconnection are becoming mountainous challenges, I believe students need meaningful ways to share their voices and build pride in their school community. A student newspaper and a growing leadership program can become a space for this connection to thrive.

That said, to make this transition possible, I must update my certification program, which costs $2,500. As a small-town public school teacher, this is a difficult expense to manage alone as we go into the unpaid summer months.

Any support will directly help me complete this program and bring new opportunities for student voice, school spirit, and leadership to our school. Thank you for believing in students and the future we’re trying to build together!