Support Ann's new path to education enrichment

Dear Friends and Family,

“I know we have stretched ourselves this past year, and we have pushed ourselves to new limits and discovered the beauty of what community is to each of us. For that, I am grateful. In addition, through my experience with my class these past 14 months, I have fallen in love with teaching all over again. Having my 17 students guide me throughout the year was a real gift in what they offered to me; reverence, forgiveness, and most of all, grace. Through the eyes of children, I was able to see they are MY teachers.”

- Ann Pasquinelly.

This is a message my sister sent to me this past year. I felt like it was essential to open up this intention with her voice. Here is just a tiny glimpse of who she is, despite all the odds placed against her this school year. Like many teachers, she spent the entire year putting her students first, making sure each one was held, emotionally and academically. She worked hard to ensure they were reaching their fullest potential, and, above all things, she allowed them space to be heard and feel seen in this unprecedented time.

I could continue to go on and on about the long phone conversations we shared this year about each of her students, how she was there for them in different capacities, far beyond the traditional teacher. But, I am here to give my sister the support and opportunity to turn the focus on herself and allow Ann the chance to go inward and grow into the teacher she yearns to be.

As most of you may know, she has chosen to take a new path next year and immerse herself in a new goal towards a personal/business development course within the Hawthorne Valley Association. She has been working towards this opportunity for some time as the application process is no fleeting task. The school is selective of the people who can join. In short, she was accepted amongst many other applicants.

Like many educational institutes, what stops most people is cost. So I ask you to take a moment and reflect on your last conversation with Ann and ask yourself, was she there to be a vessel? The answer is probably, yes. With that, I invite you to consider offering a gift/contribution towards her next journey and help her start on a successful first step towards enriching herself to do what she does best~

Give to children.

Thank you for your kindness and generosity!