Hi everyone, I am Kym, an experienced educator with over seven years in the classroom, including the past few years teaching in Korea. My journey in education has taken me across diverse schools in the United States and abroad, and through it all, one truth remains clear: teaching is my calling.

Although I have my Master's in International Education, it did not come with a certification option because it is not a teaching degree. I originally intended to work in higher education or the study abroad field. But during graduate school, I completed an internship at an international elementary school, and everything changed. I fell in love with teaching.

I began my career in New York City, first as an associate teacher and then as a head teacher at a private school. Because private schools do not require state certification, I was able to grow in the classroom based on my skills and dedication alone. But after moving abroad, I realized that experience alone is not enough. Without certification, I am often overlooked for jobs at international schools, even with years of classroom leadership behind me.

Now I am taking the next step by earning my official teaching certification so I can continue doing what I love and expand my impact. But I cannot do it alone.

Why I Need Your Help

This year has brought both incredible opportunities and unexpected setbacks. While I have secured a new full-time teaching position for the fall, the upfront cost of certification is a financial stretch, especially as I am also relocating, covering housing expenses, and navigating life abroad.

I am raising a total of $7,200 to cover the cost of an accredited certification program from Moreland University that will allow me to:

Why This Matters

Every child deserves a teacher who is not only qualified but deeply committed to seeing them thrive. I have dedicated my life to building safe, creative classrooms where students feel seen, challenged, and valued, especially those who often get overlooked.

Certification is not just a piece of paper. For me, it is a bridge:

Only through continued experience at international schools can I gain the knowledge I need to one day open my own. Certification is the next step forward on that path.

How You Can Help

Any amount you are able to give, whether five dollars, fifty dollars, or even just a share with your network, brings me closer to this goal. I will be transparent every step of the way and would love to keep you updated as I go.

Thank you for believing in me, my students, and the school I hope to one day build.

With gratitude

Kym