My name is Kristopher Calderon, and I am a high school math teacher at American History High School, part of the Newark Board of Education. For the past three years, I’ve had the privilege of working with students who are curious, hardworking, and eager to see how learning connects to the world beyond the classroom.

This year, I am leading six of my students on an educational trip to Europe, an experience designed to bring history, culture, and real-world learning to life. For many of these students, this will be their first time traveling abroad! and for some, their first time leaving the country at all!!

As an educator, I strongly believe that learning doesn’t stop at the classroom door. Traveling allows students to build independence, cultural awareness, and confidence while seeing firsthand the places they’ve only read about in textbooks. This trip will give them the opportunity to explore historic landmarks, engage with new cultures, and return home with a broader global perspective that will influence their academic and personal growth.

I am fundraising to help offset the cost of travel and make this opportunity accessible to all six students, regardless of financial barriers. Any contribution [big or small] directly supports their journey and helps turn this once-in-a-lifetime educational experience into a reality.

Donations to this GoFundMe will be equally distributed among all the students.

Below are the students' direct links to their trip accounts. Donations can be made directly through the website for each student!

Ozoid Brown

NaZiyah Headd

Ophelia Kounde

Alexander Minchala

Khalid Rouchdi

Nishani Ward

Thank you for believing in our students and for supporting learning beyond the classroom!