Poverty becomes major assignment for 70 fifth graders at Montgomery school
MONTGOMERY, AL (WSFA) - A class project in Montgomery is giving students a broader view of the world and some of what they're leaning isn't very appealing. Instead of shying away from the problem however, students are confronting it head on.
It's all taking shape in a small corner at MacMillan International Academy.
Jaida Battle holds in her hands the power that could change a life. Battle and her fellow classmates looked over the teddy bears and food collected so far from the community.
"I knew it was a situation, and wanted to learn more about it," said Battle.
The assignment started in January.
"We wanted to focus on an issue that's worldwide and compare it locally," said Mallory Meherg, the 5th grader teacher.
Battle is one of the student leaders who suggested a focus on poverty because it hit close to home.
"Well, my mom did because when she was little, they'd have to use leaves and stuff to go to the bathroom. I thought it was very sad," said Battle.
With donations from the community, Battle and her classmates have filled a number of boxes of food and stuffed animals.
"They'll have that teddy bear to grab on to and remember it by," said Meherg.
The assignment is not only an exercise in creativity and thinking globally, but also a reminder to Jazlen Nelson.
One study shows one billion children around the world live in poverty, and here in Alabama 28 percent of the state's children live in poverty, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.
"I have a lot of clothes myself. I'm doing spring cleaning, and other children need it more than me," said Nelson
It won't be long now before all of the items are boxed up and given to the Salvation Army.
"Once we get the items, we have a homeless shelter; the kids and adults will be elated," said Salvation Army Social Services Director Jason Davis.
Jaida Battle and her classmates have another six weeks to go before they complete their project, which means they're on their way to earning an excellent grade and making a world of difference along the way.
If you have a Making A Difference idea, send an email to Bryan Henry at bhenry@wsfa.com.
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