Every year thousands of students from around the country sign up for a class field trip to Washington, D.C., but for every student who makes that trip there are many who can't afford it. Enter a teacher with a passion to make it happen for her students and a chance for you to pay it forward.
“Because you have hopes and dreams, we are here.” That's one of the mottos at Andrew J. Brown Academy, a no cost public charter school on Indianapolis' east side. Part of the dream for the 8th graders includes a school trip to Washington, D.C.
"I just wanna see Washington, D.C. and explore it, period. I can't wait to walk around," said 8th grader Nijah Smith.
But the families of most of these students could never afford such a trip. So, social studies teacher Audrey Jefferson got busy looking for a way to help make her students' dream come true. What she found was a deal: a 3-day trip to the nation's capital for $350 per student.
"There's a lot of things that are going on currently that will make this a very meaningful trip for those who are able to go," said Jefferson.
The new Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. memorial, an African-American in the White House; this is not a trip about politics, but one of inspiration.
"He proved that anybody can be president,” said 8th grader Reggie Anderson. “You can be Mexican and be president. You can be any race and be president if you just believe."
These students believe and took on the task to raise money for all 51 8th graders to make the trip together.
"We've had pizza fundraisers, cookie dough fundraisers. We also had a bazar," said Smith.
So far, they're raised about $4,000. A long way from the $17,000 needed. But these 8th graders are hopeful they'll see their American dream come true.
"We really don't wanna miss out on this once in a lifetime opportunity," said Anderson.
“There are things out in the world that I am worthy of being a part of,” said Jefferson. “And as a citizen of this country I want to be aware of what those things are."
“This could change a kids' life,” added smith. “They might see something that will change them forever."
The trip is happening May and the students are planning another fundraiser as they try to meet a March deadline to pay for the trip.
For more information about Andrew J. Brown Academy or to contact to help those 8th graders reach their goal, contact the school.
