My name is Suzanne LaRochelle, and I am raising funds on behalf of thirty exceptional students at C.A. Johnson High School in Columbia, SC. These students have earned the opportunity to participate in a five-day, STEAM-focused educational leadership trip to Orlando—an opportunity of a lifetime that could permanently expand what they believe is possible for their futures. Unfortunately, fundraising has fallen short. If the needed funds are not raised by March 15, 2026, the trip will be canceled, and this opportunity will be lost. Not postponed. Not rescheduled. Lost. These students were selected because they consistently demonstrate what we hope to see in young people: they work hard, lead with character, remain involved, and represent their school with pride. They have done their part. The barrier now is purely financial. Ninety-nine percent of these students live below the poverty line. For most students, this would be their first time leaving South Carolina—not because they lack ambition or ability, but because poverty restricts access to experiences.
Building on the success of last year’s educational trip to Washington, D.C., where students engaged with core standards in U.S. History and Government, this year’s field trip to Orlando will focus on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) education and leadership development. The primary goal is to expose students to a wide range of career opportunities in technology, animation, engineering, and the sciences, while strengthening connections between classroom instruction and real-world application. Students will participate in two behind-the-scenes educational tours at Universal Studios and Disney’s EPCOT Center, where they will learn about the science, physics, mathematics, and technology that power modern theme park attractions. The trip will also include a visit to the Kennedy Space Center for a guided tour of NASA’s facilities and a live lecture by a NASA astronaut, directly supporting their U.S. History curriculum.
Funds raised will cover travel, lodging, meals, and program fees for all thirty students. Please help ensure these hardworking students don’t miss out on this life-changing opportunity. Your support will open doors and inspire them to dream bigger. Every donation, no matter the size, brings them closer to Orlando and a brighter future.
Building on the success of last year’s educational trip to Washington, D.C., where students engaged with core standards in U.S. History and Government, this year’s field trip to Orlando will focus on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) education and leadership development. The primary goal is to expose students to a wide range of career opportunities in technology, animation, engineering, and the sciences, while strengthening connections between classroom instruction and real-world application. Students will participate in two behind-the-scenes educational tours at Universal Studios and Disney’s EPCOT Center, where they will learn about the science, physics, mathematics, and technology that power modern theme park attractions. The trip will also include a visit to the Kennedy Space Center for a guided tour of NASA’s facilities and a live lecture by a NASA astronaut, directly supporting their U.S. History curriculum.
Funds raised will cover travel, lodging, meals, and program fees for all thirty students. Please help ensure these hardworking students don’t miss out on this life-changing opportunity. Your support will open doors and inspire them to dream bigger. Every donation, no matter the size, brings them closer to Orlando and a brighter future.