We’ve heard the words “It takes a village to raise a child.” When we think of community, education, and our kids, this sentiment rings true. We have all had moments in our lives when we wish we could help by lending a hand, donating our time, or giving money.

My hard-working, kind-hearted son-in-law, Jake DeBellis, just graduated this past July with his Master’s in Education, as he pursues his lifelong dream of being a teacher. He has a teaching certification for grades K-8. Jake put himself through school, earning both his BA and MA, and he is passionate about education and children. He loves helping children achieve their goals. For the past three years, Jake has worked as a para-educator in a local school and has made an impact on children on the autism spectrum, children with learning disabilities, ADHD (Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), emotion regulation issues, selective mutism, and anxiety. Jake’s ability to connect with children is so natural and effortless. He has such a calm demeanor and brings his light-hearted sense of humor with him in every interaction he has with each child he works with. Jake has shared stories about how the parents are appreciative of how their child with X challenge has made so much progress socially, emotionally, and academically.

As you know, children do not grow or learn in a straight line; they grow on a continuum, sometimes progressing and sometimes regressing—two steps forward and three back. Learning is a process that is typically met with challenges along the way. Are we open to learning or closed? A teacher can make all the difference in this area.

Filling a classroom with the extras “takes a village.” When Jake teaches this fall, he will be assigned a classroom equipped with desks/chairs, curriculum, and technology that the school has provided. You may be surprised to know that the warmth of the classroom, the hominess of a classroom, the extra books and materials that help each student achieve their own potential come out of the teacher’s pocket. I am asking that you help Jake with his classroom. Help him create a classroom that inspires children to learn and thrive, one that helps kids feel comfortable learning and eases the transition from one grade to the next. Jake will put these funds to good use. He will use them for extra books for the classroom, additional learning materials, and materials that will help each child feel comfortable in his classroom.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for helping my son-in-law achieve his dreams. I love it when the community comes together to help one another, and I know that this endeavor will be no exception.