My Shakespeare Academy tuition.

I am the  department chair of a Dekalb County high school in Georgia. I teach British Literature to a very diverse group of students including a large number of international students, some of whom are refugees. I feel privilaged to teach my students. One of things I love most about my job is the challenge of bringing something new to the young people I teach; offering them lessons that will hopefully challenge their intellectual curiosity.

Last summer, while visiting Washington D.C. with my family, I learned that the Folger Shakespeare Library offers a summer academy for teachers. The academy is an intensive week-long program that delievers curriculum, lesson ideas, but most of all, allows teachers the opportunity to research in the library that houses the largest collection of Shakespeare material in the world. As soon as I learned about the academy, I decided to apply.  I did, and this week I learned that I am one of thirty teachers who have been accepted. I am eager to be a part this once in a life time proffesional learning opportunity, to bring back new ideas to share with the teachers in my department, but most importantly, to offer my amazing students new ways to see Shakespeare. 

The tutition for the academy is $1900. Like most teachers, I pay out of pocket for a lot of material and supplies that I want my students to have, but this amount is a stretch for me as I am currently also starting a doctoral program to earn my PhD in Curriculum and Instruction, and paying out of pocket for that tuition.

The money I might receive through gofundme will only be used for the tuition. I am paying for my travel expenses and accomodations during my stay. Tuition is due in two payments; the first payment is due May 1st, and the 2nd May 15th. 

Thank you for taking the time to read my story. Any help will be greatly appreciated!