How CSC Patel Nagar and Apni Pathshala Empower Youth Through Digital Education?.
“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” – Nelson Mandela. Common Service Center (CSC), Patel Nagar, Delhi. Known for years as a place where locals could get help with tasks like filling out forms or submitting online applications for just ₹200, this centre has now become so much more. Thanks to a determined 12th-grade student named Nikhil and the support of Apni Pathshala, this spot is now a hub for digital skills training and growth. Today, this learning pod has become a place where young minds are not just learning new skills but are also gaining the confidence to dream big. This is a story of how Apnipathshala and CSC Patel Nagar are working together to open up new opportunities, bridging the digital gap and promoting community empowerment. From Student to Mentor: Nikhil’s Inspiring Journey Nikhil’s involvement with CSC began as a student himself, with no grand plans other than to learn and just manage the centre. But he quickly grew passionate about giving back, inspired by a teacher who saw his potential and encouraged him to take on a leadership role. With continuous guidance, Nikhil took on the responsibility of running the learning pod, turning it into a proper digital education centre. Initially, CSC had only three computers, and Nikhil’s resources were limited. But he knew the community needed digital skills training, especially for young minds with few opportunities to learn about technology. So, he started teaching and focusing on essential digital skills training like Canva, graphic design, coding, web development, etc. The learning pod quickly attracted a small, enthusiastic group of students eager to learn skills that could open doors for them in the current and future world of technology. The Role of Apni Pathshala in Nurturing Young Digital Minds The growing success of the learning pod soon drew the attention of Apni Pathshala, an organisation with the ultimate mission to make digital education accessible for everyone. Recognizing Nikhil’s commitment and the potential to create an even bigger impact, Apni Pathshala stepped in with a generous donation of 15 computers, transforming the CSC into a proper digital learning pod. Where only a few students could once attend, they could now welcome more learners and structure classes in a way that truly met their needs. The donation not only expanded resources but also gave the pod a new level of credibility, inspiring more families to understand and embrace the value of digital education. “Apni Pathshala’s support was like a turning point,” Nikhil shares. “Now, students don’t have to wait for a computer to be free. Classes are more organised and interactive. With these resources, we’re able to provide quality digital education to more students who need it most.” Balancing School, Teaching, and Center Nikhil’s daily routine is all about balance and commitment. As a 12th-grade student, he’s got a lot on his plate, but he manages to manage everything so passionately. From balancing his own studies to running the CSC, helping locals, and teaching classes at the learning pod, Nikhil’s day is packed. To make things work, he divides the classes into two batches—one in the morning from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., and another in the evening from 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. Right after school, Nikhil heads straight to CSC, where he starts lesson planning, teaching, and assisting anyone who comes for digital help. He doesn’t just stop at teaching the basics, he goes further. He researches new ways to make his lessons exciting and creates a curriculum that suits his students’ needs. In each session, Nikhil introduces his students to things like coding, web development, and even design tools like Canva. He knows that the more engaging the classes are, the more his students will take away skills that they can really use. Overcoming challenges Nikhil faces plenty of challenges, both at home and in the classroom. Balancing his time between school, teaching, and self-care isn’t easy, and his family often worries about him overloading himself. But the hurdles don’t stop there. Keeping his students engaged can be a challenge, too. In today’s world, students are easily distracted by social media and other influences. Nikhil has noticed that while his students love the practical parts of class, they often lose interest when it comes to theory. To keep them engaged, he’s introduced creative teaching techniques, like games, interactive activities, and projects that make learning more enjoyable. He also faces some doubts from parents, who sometimes worry that their children are spending too much time on “non-traditional” subjects. In a community where mainstream academics are often seen as the only path, digital skills can be misunderstood. “A lot of parents think their kids are wasting time or going in the wrong direction,” Nikhil shares. “But I believe kids need the chance to explore. It’s the only way they’ll find a career path they truly love.” Nikhil’s Vision for the Future When asked about his goals, Nikhil shares his dream of expanding the learning pod. “I have a lot of ideas, even if they’re not concrete yet,” he admits. He imagines creating a larger space where students can access resources beyond just digital tools, like a library where they can read, study, and explore different fields. Though his vision is still coming together, Nikhil’s commitment to uplifting kids is clear. He dreams of a future where every young mind in Patel Nagar and beyond has access to the resources they need to excel in a digital world. His learning pod at the CSC is just the first step toward what he hopes will become a broader movement for educational empowerment. A Message to Aspiring Learners Before ending our conversation, we asked Nikhil if he had any advice for young people pursuing their dreams. His response was simple but impactful: “Consistency is the key to everything. Know your priorities, and make a plan. Once you figure out what’s best for you, you’ll know which distractions to set aside and which goals
How ApniPathshala is Transforming Rural Education in Haryana.
In the quiet village of Sirsa, Haryana, where traditional values often overshadow modern ambitions, the pandemic brought education to still. Students struggled under the weight of increased syllabus, lacked personal guidance, and faced a gap in digital learning. But just when things seemed hopeless, ApniPathshala’s learning pod at the Jivam Foundation stepped in. A light of hope that turned challenges into opportunities and gave students a chance to dream again. The Beginning: Rising from the Ashes The pandemic of 2020 was not just a health crisis, it was a crisis of education. With schools closed and resources scarce, the future of countless children was surrounded by uncertainty. Recognizing the urgency, Jivam Foundation, led by the visionary Ms. Isha Godara, made the bold decision to convert a lifeless ancient building to a digital learning spot. Ms. Godara’s story is as inspiring as the foundation itself. Having completed her education in Alberta, Canada, she could have chosen a life of comfort and opportunity abroad. But her heart was rooted in Haryana, where she saw the potential to make change. Her decision to return home and create the Jivam Foundation shows her commitment to transforming the community through education and empowerment. “The building was locked and forgotten” shared Mr. Vikas Sheron, the coordinator of the learning pod. “We faced accusations from the villagers who called us frauds and doubted our intentions. But we didn’t stop, driven by the belief that education is the most powerful weapon for change.” Every essential like lighting, furniture, and Wi-Fi was set up with great effort. Despite the challenges and resistance, the foundation moved forward. Because of the vision. The dream of creating a welcoming space where students could grow and succeed. The Transformation Mr. Vikas Sheron, who joined the foundation in 2021, never imagined himself as a teacher. “I didn’t like teaching at first,” he admitted. “It wasn’t something I saw myself doing. But life brought everything together, and now I love it. The bond I share with the students is beyond professional, it’s personal, like a family.” What began as a small effort soon grew into a lively hub of digital learning and empowerment. From 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., students preparing for competitive exams come and sit in the learning pod & study together in a community. By late afternoon, the space transforms into a welcoming spot for younger children from grades 5 and 6, eager to learn after school. The journey wasn’t easy. One of the toughest challenges was changing societal mindsets. “In villages across Haryana, especially here, daughters weren’t allowed to study. Convincing parents to let their daughters join us wasn’t easy,” Mr. Sheron said. Yet, with time and persistence, the narrative changed. “Today, 70% of the students in our pod are girls, and they actively participate in programs and stage events,” he added with a sense of pride. A Partnership for Progress: Apni Pathshala’s Role The arrival of ApniPathshala brought a remarkable transformation to the learning pod. By donating us computer systems, it opened up a new world for students who had never even touched a computer before. “Thanks to ApniPathshala, our students have gone from having no digital learning exposure to mastering advanced skills,” shared Mr. Vikas. “It’s amazing to watch their confidence and abilities grow.” The impact is undeniable. Many students from the pod have successfully secured positions in various competitive fields, proving that their hard work and the support they received paid off. But the pod is more than just a place for academics. It’s a space where children develop life skills, resilience, and the courage to dream big. A Moment of Pride On the foundation’s first anniversary, the learning pod’s achievements were celebrated with a visit from Savita Poonia, the captain of the Indian Women’s Hockey Team. Her presence was more than just motivational, it was proof to what happens when passion meets perseverance. “She motivated us and appreciated our efforts,” Mr. Sheron recalled. “It was a moment of pride not just for the foundation but for the entire village.” Building Bonds, Changing Lives The foundation of the pod’s success is the special bond between the students and their teachers. “Learning is never one-way,” Mr. Sheron shared. “We learn something new from our students every day. Their feedback is incredibly valuable and pushes us to keep improving.” The pod is about so much more than academics. It’s a place where confidence is built, curiosity is nurtured, and opportunities are created for those who had none. Parents who were once unsure now stand as strong supporters of the initiative, attending PTMs and engaging actively with the teachers. A Legacy of Hope and Inspiration ApniPathshala’s learning pod at Jivam Foundation stands as proof of what’s possible when compassion meets commitment and when people dare to challenge societal norms for the greater good. This pod is not just reshaping rural education, it’s rewriting life stories, particularly for young girls in a community that once hesitated to support their dreams. Today, these same girls step onto stages with confidence, participate in programs, and walk on paths once considered impossible. This transformation reflects a powerful truth: when people come together with a shared purpose, obstacles disappear, and opportunities multiply. From an abandoned, crumbling building to a living hub of learning, the journey of this pod proves that even the smallest steps can create monumental change. It reminds us all that determination and collective effort can light the path to a brighter, more inclusive future. As the learning pod continues to grow, its story serves as an inspiration to dream big, work hard, and believe in the life-changing power of education. This isn’t just a story of success, it’s a call to action. Each one of us has the power to contribute to a world where every child gets the chance to learn, grow, and achieve their full potential. Be Part of the Change! ApniPathshala believes in creating more stories like this. Stories where education wins over adversity and dreams are given the
How a rural learning pod transformed education in Purkhas Rathi?
In the village of Purkhas Rathi, a dream has come to life. A dream of giving every child a chance to learn and grow, no matter what. Mr. Kapil Jangra saw a future where kids here could have the same opportunities as any other child.And with the support of LIFI and Apni Pathshala, he began a journey to make that dream real. What started as a small initiative has now become a powerful learning space, where kids don’t just learn—they lead, they grow, and they build a future for themselves! This is the story of transformation in Purkhas Rathi, where you’ll see how hope and courage can write a whole new chapter. The Vision: A new era of learning for Purkhas Rathi In 2020, Kapil Jangra joined Learning Initiatives for India (LIFI), where his work was just to teach students from Class 1 to 5. During his fellowship, he quickly realised that while children were receiving basic education, there would be a great gap once they finished their fifth standard. The lack of a computer lab, essential learning tools, and opportunities for further education in the village made him ask one simple question—What happens to these kids after they finish school? Kapil was determined to find a way to give the children of Purkhas Rathi the skills they’d need for a brighter future. His vision? A computer lab, right in the heart of the village, where kids could learn essential skills to help them succeed in today’s world. But, like many dreams, it seemed impossible at first as he didn’t have the money or resources to make it happen. Still, the man had no plans to give up. He started talking to people, surveying the community to understand their needs and gather support. He even approached the village leader, the Sarpanch, to get support for his idea. Soon, the community started joining. Some donated money, while others brought books, chairs, or furniture—whatever they could offer to help turn Kapil’s vision into a reality. Overcoming challenges with determination You can’t expect to reach greatness without facing any challenge. The road to establishing the learning pod was anything but simple and smooth. Kapil faced numerous challenges, both practical and emotional. As someone with no prior experience in managing such projects, he felt hesitant and unsure, especially when it came to asking for financial help. “Sometimes, doors were slammed in our faces. People doubted us, mistreated us, and I won’t lie, there were moments I felt like crying,” Kapil recalls. But the fire in his heart never extinguished! One of the biggest challenges was the lack of electricity. For months, the learning pod had no reliable power, making it challenging to create a proper study environment. “We had to use lamps and even incense sticks to make the space usable for the kids,” Kapil shared. Even the internet was a struggle as the Wi-Fi barely worked for six months. But despite these obstacles, Kapil and the kids kept going, fully committed to their mission. Another emotional challenge was convincing some parents to send their children, especially girls, to the pod. In a village where education for girls was often considered unnecessary beyond the age of 12, Kapil fought hard to change mindsets. “Meenakshi and Sakshi’s parents initially refused to send them,” says Kapil, remembering the struggle. “Meenakshi’s father was a police officer and wanted to marry her off. But I didn’t give up. I spoke to him again and again, showing him the value of education, and eventually, he agreed.” Meeting Apni Pathshala Where there’s a will, there’s a way. Thanks to Mr. Raman Bhal, the founder of LIFI, Mr. Jangra came into contact with Apni Pathshala: an organisation dedicated to providing quality education and life skills to underprivileged communities. Apni Pathshala’s support was the turning point for the learning pod at Purphas Rathi. They provided computers, electricity, Wi-Fi, and ensured the cleanliness and maintenance of the space. With their support, Kapil’s dream was no longer a distant hope, but a reality. “Apni Pathshala is not just an organisation; they are the backbone of the learning pod,” says Kapil. “They understood our vision and stood by us, providing the resources we desperately needed.” A Pod Managed by the Kids The most amazing part of the learning pod is how self-sustaining it has become. What started as Kapil’s initiative has turned into a space where the kids not only learn but also run things on their own. They’re in charge: creating study schedules, managing computers, and planning activities. “The kids are the true heroes here,” Kapil says proudly. “When I’m away for seminars or training, they handle everything from making study plans, taking photos to even guiding new students. Watching them step up as leaders is incredibly heartwarming.” This sense of ownership is deeply rooted in the students. “When I have to leave, they tell me- ‘Sir, you go, we’ll take care of the pod,’” Kapil shares with a proud smile. “And they don’t just manage it, they’ve made it their own. They take initiative, help each other, and genuinely care about making the pod a place where everyone can grow.” Isn’t this what success looks like? Routine and Growth: Learning Beyond Books The learning pod operates every evening from 5 PM to 7 PM, with a specific no. of students attending each session. On Saturdays, they focus on games and extracurricular activities like dance, singing, and sports to keep the children entertained and teach them life skills such as teamwork. On Sundays, the pod is open for revision and catch-up sessions. The kids themselves decided to contribute a small fee of 300 rupees per month to help cover the expenses for electricity, Wi-Fi, and rent. “They’re incredibly thoughtful,” says Kapil. “These kids are already learning the value of responsibility and self-sufficiency at such a young age.” Looking forward, Kapil hopes to add an English-speaking course to the curriculum to ensure the children aren’t left behind just due to language barriers. “I’ve faced
Creating a Curriculum for Your Learning Pod: A Step-by-Step Guide
Can you imagine your academic classes without a syllabus? That would be extremely vague. Creating a curriculum for a learning pod is the first and the most important step in the whole journey. One has to make sure it is structured and organised from the beginning. As there are a lot of steps involved, there’s a high chance you might get confused. To make things clearer, here’s a step-by-step guide to developing a structured and effective curriculum that will serve as an invaluable resource for any learning pod. 1. Define Learning Objectives 2. Conduct a Needs Assessment 3. Choose a Learning Model That Fits Your Pod 4. Develop a Weekly and Daily Schedule 5. Select the Right Learning Materials and Resources 6. Set Up Assessment and Feedback Mechanisms 7. Integrate Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) 8. Incorporate Physical Activities and Creative Outlets 9. Adapt and Adjust as Needed Why Choose Apni Pathshala’s Learning Pods? Any talk about learning pods is incomplete without Apni Pathshala. Our collaboration with BeyondExams promises that learning pods are designed with a unique and updated curriculum approach that works for every child’s individual learning needs. We prioritise academic excellence while also nurturing emotional growth and creative expression. In our pods, students find a supportive environment where they can truly grow. So what are you waiting for? Visit Apni Pathshala today and discover how our innovative learning pod curriculum can make a significant difference in your child’s academic and personal development.
The Heart of a Warrior: Sagar’s Inspiring Journey from Leukaemia to Leader
Life is very unpredictable, and when it plays its music, all you can do is dance on every beat. At 14, Sagar and his family moved from Borivali to Virar, leaving behind everything they knew. From a comfortable life to starting over in a small one-room apartment, everything changed. Life wasn’t easy, but Sagar, just a boy in 8th grade then, had no choice but to adapt to his new reality.The school he attended in Virar lacked structure, proper classes, and opportunities, yet it was here that his journey to becoming the person he is today began. After completing his 11th and 12th in Virar, Sagar’s life took another shocking turn. Just when he was preparing for his NEET exam to become a doctor, he started feeling unwell. His body wasn’t cooperating, he was vomiting frequently and feeling unusually weak, but he ignored the signs. Focused on his goal, he didn’t tell his family as he convinced himself that it was just exam stress. But on May 14th, his birthday, the truth came crashing down- Sagar was diagnosed with leukaemia, a type of blood cancer. The Fight Against Blood Cancer What followed was a battle that would test every part of who Sagar was. He was bedridden for over a year and a half, completely drained from the aggressive treatment. His dreams of becoming a doctor were slipping away, but he had no choice but to focus on survival. Many people who get exposed to such adverse situations give up mentally, but not Sagar. And, I believe that justifies the title of this blog- the heart of a warrior! During his time at Tata Memorial Hospital, he saw the harsh realities of life all around him. From little children to elderly patients, everyone was fighting the same fight. It changed something deep inside him. The boy who once lived day to day, not thinking much about the future, suddenly began to understand just how fragile and precious life is. That hospital ward became his classroom. He learned lessons that no school could teach– about resilience, about the power of human connection, and most of all, about gratitude. He started appreciating the little things. The moments with his family, the support from his loved ones. Even today, Sagar has to undergo blood transfusions every six months, a reminder of the battle he fought. But it is not something he views with fear anymore, it’s a reminder of how far he has come. A New Beginning: Discovering Apni Pathshala Though blood cancer took away Sagar’s dream of becoming a doctor, it didn’t take away his will to learn. He decided to study biotechnology, but life had other plans once again. In his second year of college, Sagar crossed paths with Apni Pathshala, which then started its learning pod at Narayan Chandra Trust. It was here that Sagar touched a computer for the first time. Yes, it sounds surprising. He was in college but had never used a computer before. Growing up, due to high computer coaching fees he couldn’t enrol in them. But Apni Pathshala gave him a way in. The initiative was a test by BeyondExams to see if students could benefit from free education in industry skills. For Sagar, it was nothing short of life-changing. Under the mentorship of Mr. Pankaj Baranwal and Ms.Simran Jain, Sagar, along with a few others, became the first batch of students to learn these skills. His mentors saw something in him. His drive, his willingness to learn despite all the setbacks. They encouraged him to go beyond just academics and learn practical skills. And so, he started teaching younger students, passing on the knowledge that had been given to him for free. He became a bridge between the children from underprivileged communities and the education they desperately needed. From Learner to Leader Sagar’s dedication didn’t go unnoticed. His mentors, impressed by his growth, gave him the responsibility of managing the Apni Pathshala’s learning pod in Virar. This wasn’t just about computers anymore, it was about leading a group of students, managing the learning pod, and making sure the initiative continued. He went from being a student to a leader, someone who others looked up to. In this role, Sagar learned more than he ever imagined. He gained people skills, learned how to manage projects, and more importantly, he discovered the power of community. He realised how much could be achieved when people work together, when someone believes in you and gives you a chance to grow. Lessons for Life: Be Like Water! Sagar’s journey is one of transformation. He went from a boy struggling with blood cancer to a young leader shaping the future of his community. One of the biggest lessons he has learned is this: “Be like water.” Life doesn’t always go the way we plan, but if we are adaptable, if we can change shape and flow with the challenges, we can still find our way. Had Sagar continued on the path of biotechnology, he would have ended up in a lab, limited to a single field. But by embracing the opportunities that came his way, he discovered a whole new world. One where he could connect with people, teach them, and build something that had a lasting impact. He remembers the words of Dr. Anirudh Malpani, MD of Apni Pathshala, who once told him, “The goal should not just be to be rich, but rich enough to help others.”. And, this became Sagar’s philosophy for life. Sagar’s Vision for Education Today, Sagar believes that education should be student-centric, and not curriculum driven. According to him, there are two Indias. One where students are prepared for IITs and top universities, while others don’t even have access to a computer. Through Apni Pathshala, Sagar hopes to bridge that gap, giving every child a chance to grow, and achieve their dreams. Always remember, where there is a will, there is a way. Sagar’s story leaves us with a powerful reminder: Life may
How did MakersBox manage to Change the Lives of Children?
“The function of education is to teach one to think intensively and to think critically. Intelligence plus character – that is the goal of true education.” -Martin Luther King Jr. Education today is evolving, moving away from traditional textbook-based approaches and leaning towards skills that prepare students for real-world challenges. This is the mission that MakersBox, a learning pod founded by Harpreet Ma’am and Gagan Sir, has taken on since its inception. Launched in 2019, MakersBox recently partnered with Apni Pathshala to extend its reach and continue transforming the educational landscape. Starting as a small centre to educate children in practical skills, witness how MakersBox began its mission, the challenges faced, and how it has successfully helped students by encouraging creativity, critical thinking, and hands-on learning. A Vision Beyond Textbooks: How MakersBox Came to be? MakersBox began as a dream shared by Harpreet Ma’am and Gagan Sir, both passionate educators with a desire to teach real-life skills beyond the limitations of traditional education. Their vision was clear: prepare students for the real world by equipping them with practical, hands-on knowledge Established in 2019, MakersBox aimed to fill the gap between theoretical learning and practical application, focusing on essential skills like robotics, coding, video editing, and digital tools such as Figma and Canva. However, getting this idea off the ground wasn’t easy. Initially, they faced significant challenges—limited resources, space, and awareness in the community about the importance of practical education. How did this Journey start? In June 2021, MakersBox began with just a few systems, electronic kits, and 3D printers in a small robotics lab. Despite the limited space and resources, Harpreet Ma’am and Gagan Sir persevered. Word of mouth and pamphlets were their primary tools for reaching out to the community. Their hard work paid off when a small group of 3-4 children from class 3rd to class 8th started showing up to learn. Their efforts soon expanded, and higher-grade students and even college students joined the pod. Yogita Ma’am played a pivotal role in helping MakersBox grow by providing access to a computer lab and supporting the efforts to spread awareness. The Mission of MakersBox: Learning By Doing MakersBox has a simple yet powerful belief: Education should be more than just theory. It should inspire students to explore, create, and solve real-world problems. Their mission is to teach students practical skills that are directly focused to the ever-changing world outside the classroom. A major focus is on the 4 C’s in educating children: MakersBox uses a project-based learning approach, where students learn by doing. Whether it’s coding, robotics, or video editing, students engage with the materials actively rather than passively absorbing information. This not only boosts their knowledge but also builds confidence in their ability to tackle real-life challenges. Unique Hiring Approach: Learning from Within One of the most unique aspects of MakersBox is its approach to hiring. Rather than looking for external candidates, MakersBox often hires students who have learned within the pod. These students, now equipped with advanced skills, help teach the next generation of learners. This approach not only ensures that the teaching style remains consistent but also empowers students to take ownership of their education and give back to the community. Successes & Key Achievements of MakersBox MakersBox has seen incredible growth since its early days. The pod has become a space where students of all backgrounds come together to learn, create, and grow. Events organized in collaboration with Apni Pathshala have been a great success, allowing students to showcase their work and creativity to the community. Key Achievements: One of the most significant successes has been the involvement of alumni—students who once learned at MakersBox now contribute by teaching their peers and helping the next generation of learners. How did MakersBox Overcome Challenges? While MakersBox has achieved much, there have been ongoing challenges. One of the biggest hurdles has been maintaining consistency in student attendance and participation. For many students, this style of learning is entirely new, and the journey of making it part of their routine has required continuous effort. Additionally, spreading awareness about the importance of practical skills—especially in areas where traditional education dominates—has been a challenge. However, with time and the support of parents and community leaders, MakersBox has been able to expand its reach and impact. Success Stories that Have Transformed Lives MakersBox has changed the lives of countless students. One such story is that of Monu, a student from a government school who joined the pod in 2021. Initially shy and unsure of his abilities, Monu soon learned to excel in robotics and coding. He now helps teach his peers and has become an inspiration for others in his community. Another success story is that of a student who joined MakersBox in 2023 with no prior experience in digital skills. Through hands-on learning and mentorship, she is now proficient in various digital tools and has found direction in their academic and career aspirations by starting a YouTube Channel. Join the Initiative MakersBox is more than just a learning pod—it’s a community of innovators, creators, and problem solvers. As part of Apni Pathshala, MakersBox is committed to continuing its mission of teaching practical skills and empowering students to succeed in the real world. We invite teachers, community leaders, and parents to join us in this journey. Together, we can transform education, moving beyond textbooks to a world where learning is hands-on, engaging, and fun. Let’s equip the next generation with the skills they need to succeed. Contact us today to learn more about how you can be a part of this incredible movement.
How to Create a Successful Learning Pod: Step-by-Step Guide
Establishing a successful learning pod begins with clarifying your goals, selecting a curriculum, creating conducive spaces, fostering a supportive learning environment, taking on the role of a teacher, and inviting like-minded families to join in.