Kennedy School students raise money to build library in Ethiopia

Students at John F. Kennedy Elementary School hope to raise $5,000 to build a library at their sister school in Ethiopia.

They previously donated more than $450 to purchase new desks and chairs for the Gordama School, which serves 1,800 kindergarteners through eighth graders who often sit on the floor in classes averaging 100 students, said Kristen Fudge, a Kennedy School teacher who is co-organizing the program.

Fifth graders also exchanged photos and letters with their African counterparts to learn about the people, culture, and school community in Africa. The relationship began when Fudge adopted an Ethiopian child and learned that the Gordama School was seeking an American sister school.

Students received letters and pictures from Ethiopian students this fall and wrote return letters which were sent to Africa Dec. 5 with a family adopting a child, Fudge said.

"It's opened their eyes to other parts of the world and situations other kids have to live in," she said. "I hope they will develop a connection to Ethiopia and realize they truly can make a difference."

The students are holding a fund-raiser at the Porter Square Pizzeria Uno Dec. 16 in which Uno will donate 20 percent of a participant's check to the cause. Attendees must present a donation ticket available here.




Students at the Gordama School in Ethiopia attend classes in crowded rooms where many have to sit on the floor.


Source:boston.com/