Hi! My name is Mercedes, and I’m starting my first year teaching high school English and History (Grades 8–11).

As a Métis educator, I believe in reciprocity in education; learning is a two-way street. I want to keep growing as a teacher so I can bring meaningful, truth-based learning into my classroom and community.

I’ve been selected as one of only 30 educators across Canada to attend the 2026 Holocaust Memorial Sites Study Tour for Educators, a 15-day professional development program in Poland, Austria, and Germany. Through site visits and guided learning, we’ll deepen our understanding of the Holocaust and how to teach about antisemitism, genocide, and human rights.

This opportunity is especially important to me as I work to create culturally responsive lessons that connect global history to the experiences of Indigenous and Métis peoples here in Canada.

While I’ve received a partial subsidy, I’m responsible for the remaining $5,182, along with expenses like meals, insurance, tips, and travel to required pre-tour events in Winnipeg. I’m aiming to raise $7,000-$7,500 by March 15, 2026 to make this possible.

If you’re able to support, whether through a donation or simply sharing this page, I’d be so grateful. Every bit helps me take this journey and bring it home to my students.

Thank you for believing in teachers and in the power of education!

Sincerely,

Mercedes.

More about the program: https://www.holocauststudy.org