Some New Mexico eighth graders used their end-of-year trip fund to help the Navajo Nation.
Eighth-graders at the Waldorf School in Santa Fe, New Mexico, had spent the year raising $2,800 for their rafting trip, a thrilling end to their time in middle school. But then came Covid-19.
Rather than mope after the trip’s cancellation, the students chose to make a major impact on the lives of others by using the money to help the Navajo Nation, which is struggling amid the pandemic.
In May, the Navajo Nation surpassed New York and New Jersey for the highest per-capita coronavirus infection rate in the US.
The students used their $2,800 fund to purchase supplies, which were then delivered to members of Navajo Nation.
The idea came from Jess Falkenhagen, one of the parents in the 8th grade class.
Falkenhagen, who is a cultural anthropologist, said she was concerned about the impact of coronavirus on Navajo Nation.
The mother of four contacted Navajo leaders to ask what they needed. Essential items for babies and non-perishable food made the list. So did diapers, formula, toilet paper, wipes and medicines.
Falkenhagen and her eldest daughter then made the drive to Window Rock, Arizona, in a rented van brimming with the donations from the Waldorf School’s eighth grade class.
Teacher Daisy Bernard said students were happy with their decision to spend the money they raised — mostly through pizza sales — on a great cause.