Freedom Writers Institute Fund

Happy New Year everyone!  I have an incredible opportunity to train this summer with Erin Gruwell of the The Freedom Writers Foundation.  I encourage you to read her book or watch the movie about her life if you haven't already.  As an educator, I am inspired by her passion and dedication which exudes as she speaks about her experience.  This is my 14th year in education. (Where does the time go?)  I was a teacher for 9 years, an Assistant Principal for 4 years, and I am currently the Principal of The Paul Laurence Dunbar Early Education Center in Texarkana, Texas with the Texarkana Independent School District (TISD).  I also work as an adjunct teacher with Texas A&M University-Texarkana. This summer program will empower me with diverse curriculum tools intended to be a powerful agent of change in students who are at the greatest risk of educational attrition.  For five days, I will stay on-site in Long Beach, California and engage in activities personally led by Ms. Gruwell, current Freedom Writer Teachers, and original Freedom Writers.  These activities will also consist of trips to museums and educational institutions.  My tuition fee includes travel, accommodations, meals, professional development, Institute activities, field trips, books, and other educational supplies.  I am extremely grateful for this opportunity!  If you need more information, please visit http://www.freedomwritersfoundation.org/  As Nelson Mandela once said, "Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world."  Thank you so much for your support!

~Taryn Chambers Wells