I'm raising money for one of my former students, "Justin*" whose dad and primary caretaker is being deported two months before Justin's graduation.

Justin arrived in my Newcomer ESL class when he was just twelve years old. His dad is a single dad who supported his son every step of the way, despite being unable to read and write himself. I always remember his dad speaking special permission to communicate with me via voicenotes so that he could keep track of how his son was doing, despite his illiteracy. He managed to get legal representation for Justin, who is now on the path to citizenship.

His goal for Justin was that he graduate from high school-- something that less than 40% of Newcomer ESL students achieve. And he almost got him there-- Justin will graduate from high school in less than two months, without his dad present. However, just two months before graduation, Justin's dad was detained at an ICE check-in, based on a removal order from over twenty years ago.

While we can't help Kevin's dad be at his graduation, I would love to make sure that Justin does not have to worry about money for at least the next three months, while he finishes his studies, pays for his cap and gown, enrolls in driver's ed, and practices driving with his learner's permit.

It would mean so much for me if you would help make life a little easier during this horrible time for one of my beloved students.

With love,

Emma

*name changed to protect the family's privacy