Hello, my name is Michele MacDonald and I teach 3rd grade to children who have only just arrived in the US and speak no English. Many of the children I work with come from families who had previously lived in impoverished countries facing many hardships, often fleeing violence to make a better life for their children.

Ernesto spoke not a word of English when he arrived and was not even able to communicate with his Spanish-speaking peers due to his speech impediment resulting from his hearing loss. Learning English is challenging for most students, but for Ernesto, it is almost impossible without the assistance of working hearing devices.

His parents, although both working very hard, have no hope of being able to afford what their son needs. Through the help of the school, Ernesto's parents applied to a state fund to assist, but sadly, almost a year later, we learned that the fund has run out of money. Ernesto cannot even be evaluated for speech or other services because his impairment prohibits this.

In spite of all of this, Ernesto comes to school smiling every day. He is so very bright and cheerful and he is an absolute whizz at math. He has taught himself all the tips and tricks to troubleshoot anyone's Chromebook issues and even I, ask him for help with the Smartboard. He is a natural at technology. He does all of this without hearing or speaking! Ernesto has limitless potential and I know he will do great things. Please consider helping him become the future great American he is destined to be.