STEPHANIE: S1108-SEC

Stephanie is a bright 7-year-old little girl who is going to school for the very first time this year. Until now, she had never stepped inside a classroom as a student. Stephanie was brought to us by one of the teachers at the school, who shared her heartbreaking story. Years ago, Stephanie was abandoned by her mother. Since then, her elderly grandmother—who can barely afford to feed herself—has taken Stephanie in and is doing her best to care for her. Despite the financial hardship, her grandmother has shown her nothing but love. Every single morning, Stephanie would walk onto the school campus and quietly hang around, hoping someone would let her sit in a classroom. She stayed from morning until dismissal, simply watching other children learn. The teacher’s heart broke for her, but he had to maintain school policy. If he allowed one child to sit in class without being enrolled, it would set a precedent for others. So Stephanie continued to wait… day after day… just hoping for a chance. That chance has finally come. This year, Stephanie is officially enrolled in ABC (Pre-Kindergarten), the very first level before Kindergarten 1 in Liberia. She is beyond excited to begin her educational journey. What once was only a dream—standing outside a classroom—has now become her reality. Stephanie’s story is one of quiet perseverance and hope. She never stopped showing up. She never stopped believing she would get her turn. To her sponsor: thank you. Your support is not just sending Stephanie to school—you are giving a little girl who once stood outside the classroom door the opportunity to finally walk inside and take her seat. You are changing the course of her life. Sponsored by: Beth Tetzlaff