Eighth grade Technology Literacy students used the Inspiration concept mapping program to brainstorm challenges that people across the world face each day. One such challenge is the issue of HIV/AIDS in Africa. One organization that is working tirelessly to "help" with that cause is Doctor's Without Borders. Once students had an understanding of these issues, they researched what is happening today in countries like Darfur and Sudan. They learned that in these countries children are often the innocnet victims of this horrible disease. Students wanted to "help" and did so by organizing a penny drive within the entire school.

All 8th graders also study the Holocaust during the 3rd quarter, so students made connections between what is currently happening in Darfur and what happened many years ago during the Holocaust. Then, they researched Sudan (Darfur) and created multi-media informational and inspirational slide shows with the goal being that the viewer of the slide show would be compelled to take some sort of action to HELP. Students then decided to hold a PENNY DRIVE...with all proceeds to go to the World Health Organization to help with the HIV/AIDS crisis in Darfur. The students opened this drive up to the entire student body at HWMS and together, they raised over $2700.

Below are pictures from the special assembly that the students earned by raising the money. Mrs. Way and Mrs. Morrish (6th grade teachers) were gracious enough to allow the winning homeroom students to duck-tape them to the wall. Ms. Clark and Mr. Verburg (Physical Education teachers) also were good sports by letting students from the winning homerooms throw some delicious cream pies at them. Mrs. Olschanski created a special "Deal or No Deal" game and a lucky student was able to compete for prizes as well as a student council donation to the cause. There was a special door prize drawing as well so some students came away with special prizes. All was done in fun and for a great cause! Thank you to everyone who contributed and participated in this wonderful event!