Help Lauren Bring New Zealand to NYC Classrooms

Hi! My name is Lauren Pavletich. I'm a high school chemistry teacher in New York City. I have been teaching for 15 years, and am constantly trying to find new ways to bring life to my curriculum and my classroom.

I recently received a grant through Fund for Teachers to participate in a trip to New Zealand with National Geographic. On this trip, I'm going to be participating in a variety of activities, including visiting Waitomo Glowworm Caves, stay in Kohutapu Lodge to learn about the Maori culture, and navigate the Whirinaki Rainforest. Though these are not the only activities I'll be involved in, I will be given the chance to study the environment and ecosystems and connect these to my chemistry classroom. I'm wanting to study the geothermal activity found on New Zealand, the chemistry of cooking in the Maori culture, and the composition of soil, so my students can not only study an environment and culture that is different than their own, but also to make connections to their environment and culture. I'm also excited to bring back additional resources, images, and information for my colleagues and their courses to utilized in cross-curricular activities and events within our school.

This is where I need your help. The grant I received only covers $5,000, while this project costs close to $11,000. I have started this fundraising opportunity in order to cover some of this additional $6,000 cost.

I would also love your engagement in my journey! I will be sharing pictures and information on my educational Instagram Page, @chemwithSmiles. Follow for updates, and what I'm learning on my journey to New Zealand!