My name is Terrell McClain, and for as long as I can remember, I have known that teaching is my calling. Every day that I walk into my classroom, I’m reminded that I was meant to be here — building relationships, creating magic for my students, and showing them that they have a champion in their corner. I am proud to serve in a school district that believes in me, supports my vision, and allows me to grow as an educator.

I am currently in the final stage of becoming a fully certified teacher, and this moment is years in the making. I’ve balanced full-time teaching, college coursework, and leadership responsibilities, all while pouring everything I have into my students. My university has been flexible and supportive, and my district has wrapped around me in ways that make it possible for me to keep pushing forward.

But completing this final step comes with additional tuition and program fees that I must pay out-of-pocket. As much as I am committed to finishing strong, it has become challenging to cover both my home responsibilities and the remaining academic costs on my own. I’m not stepping away from my role — I’m still teaching my incredible Pre-K students and preparing to meet my new first graders soon. I simply need help carrying the financial load while I cross this final stretch.

That’s why I’m reaching out to my village — the people who believe in the work I do and the future I’m building. If you are able to support me, whether through donating, sharing this page, or offering words of encouragement, it would mean more than you know. Your generosity helps a CHAMPION teacher finish his certification journey and continue serving students with excellence, passion, and purpose.

Thank you for standing with me, uplifting me, and helping me reach the finish line. With your help, I will become the fully certified educator I’ve worked so hard to be — for myself, for my community, and most importantly, for the children I am blessed to teach. ❤️