Through your generous contributions to the Olympic High School Foundation, we have the opportunity to make a significant difference in the lives of our dedicated teachers and facilitators. Each year, your support enables us to provide essential classroom stipends to every Olympic educator, helping them acquire vital school supplies and materials at the beginning of the school year.
One of the many remarkable educators who benefit from the annual classroom stipend is Mrs. Ugueto. She teaches Spanish to both native and non-native speakers, using her stipend to purchase art supplies for historical and traditional enrichment activities. From creating papel picado (paper cut-outs) to crafting brazealetes (friendship bracelets) and even obtaining supplies for the pan de muerto (bread of the dead) used in Spanish Club activities, Mrs. Ugueto emphasizes the profound impact these stipends have on enriching the cultural context of the Spanish language.
"The annual classroom stipend from the OHS Foundation is instrumental in supporting efforts to bring out the rich cultural context of the Spanish language," Mrs. Ugueto affirms.
Ms. Sain, a dedicated Career Development Counselor (CDC), underscores the significance of the Foundation’s annual classroom stipends. She explains that, compared to many schools in the Charlotte Mecklenburg School district, Olympic High School faces unique challenges. The stipends help bridge the gap by aiding our teachers and, indirectly, our students. Many teachers struggle to afford classroom anchor charts, global charts, or even basic classroom guidelines that create an inviting and engaging learning environment. Ms. Sain expresses her heartfelt appreciation for the vital role these stipends play in enhancing the educational experience.
Mr. Sanchez, a devoted teaching assistant in the Exceptional Children (EC) extension, eagerly awaits the stipends each year. He uses them to purchase supplies for "TroJoe," a student-run coffee cart and business venture within the EC program. TroJoe is staffed and operated by students facing intellectual difficulties related to Autism, Down Syndrome, and visual impairment. This unique curriculum is designed to foster social skills, encourage independent living, and provide vocational training, all of which are vital for these students' success after graduation.
Thanks to the unwavering support of our donors, the Olympic High School Foundation annual classroom stipends empower our teachers to find innovative ways to bring their subjects to life. By engaging students in meaningful and lasting ways, these educators help shape the future of our students and our community.