Testimonials
I first heard Maja's story when a student brought me an article about her after we discussed the war in Bosnia in 1997. I shared it with my students and asked them to write her a letter even though we didn't know how to find her at the time. I was astounded at the response. My students told me stories of hardship they had faced that I would never otherwise have heard, and we were instantly bonded. Most of the students who had never dealt with extreme difficultly expressed admiration for Maja and a better appreciation for their own circumstances. It is not easy to get high school students to reflect and express empathy openly in writing, and this is why I have used Maja's story every since.
I want to thank you personally on behalf of the Allegany County Public School system for your efforts in making the convocation a success. Your story has an inspirations appeal that transcends age and time.
Once again, I'm writing to thank you for your inspiring words. Your story is so moving, so important and well-told that I'll be continuing to look for venues.
I've downloaded the secondary school curriculum and am looking forward to including this unit in the Fall of 2010.
Maja's story never fails to inspire my students. It has been a valued part of my geography curriculum for several years.
My students were very moved my Maja's story. Our classroom discussion was lively and thought provoking. I believe they will remember Maja and draw strength from her triumphs.
Following my visit to Clearwater along with talking with you and learning more about you, we started a project board “If Winter Can, We Can Too” and we have developed individual goals, knowing that you had goals and achieved them and people had goals for Winter; the children will help each other reach their goals! We have also been adding more to our curriculum regarding differing abilities! It’s been great fun! Prior to my visit to Clearwater, we watched video about Winter, and you J, and learned a little about dolphins. We focused a lot on helping others and why it’s important to practice things we want to learn. Both you and Winter are frequently mentioned in out classroom!
