Hello friends, fellow educators, and supporters of future teachers,

My name is Elaine Lundy, and I’m proud to say I’ve spent the past 26 years as an educator in South Carolina. Today, I’m reaching out not for myself, but for my daughter, Kaitlyn R., who is entering the most important year of her Winthrop University journey —her student teaching.

Kaitlyn is a senior majoring in Special Education with a heart as big as her dreams. From the moment she could talk, she was “teaching”—lining up her stuffed animals, modeling her favorite teachers, and spreading kindness to anyone in her path. Now, she's stepping into classrooms with that same passion, eager to make a difference for students of all abilities.

This fall, she begins her unpaid student teaching experience. As every educator knows, that final year is one of the most rewarding—and financially difficult. Student teaching is a full-time job, but it comes with no paycheck. Balancing a paying job on top of student teaching is nearly impossible, yet many students are forced to do just that.

Kaitlyn has already made her mark in the education world. She is presenting at the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) on “Theatre for All,” an inclusive arts initiative she developed for Winthrop Life, students with intellectual disabilities. Her advocacy, creativity, and heart for inclusion inspire me—and everyone around her—daily.

She’s learned from some of the very best in Lexington School District 2, and she’s ready to bring that knowledge full circle by becoming one of those greats herself. But to do that, she needs our help.

I want Kaitlyn to be able to give her all to student teaching—not splitting her focus between lesson plans and paychecks. This fund will help cover her basic living expenses, gas for commuting to her placement, classroom supplies, and the many other costs that come with becoming a teacher.

If you’ve ever been a student teacher—or mentored one—you know how demanding and transformative this time can be. Let’s rally around Kaitlyn the way so many rallied around us. Every dollar helps lift a little weight off her shoulders so she can focus on what matters most: supporting her students.

Thank you for believing in the future of education. And thank you for helping this future special education teacher shine.

With love and gratitude,

Elaine Lundy

Proud Mom & Lifelong Educator