The Teacher Toolbox

A couple of months back Sarah Wallis contacted me regarding helping out with resources for a library in Wagai, Western Kenya. I had a friend of mine, Bron, print out my phonics posters and laminate them. We then sent them off.

Recently Sarah sent me this message and a few photos. Well done Sarah!

“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world” – Nelson Mandela

Congratulations! You have done well.

On 7^th December 2007, Wagai Primary School became one of the first schools in the Western Kenyan region to receive a newly constructed children’s library.

On its completion, the Headmaster enthusiastically shook my hand and proceeded to proudly inspect the range of reading material. It is not often that a community receives such a gift.
What initially began as an idea to transport a few donated books to this school, ultimately catapulted into something much greater, as within three days I was in receipt of twenty emails from Australian authors, each of whom were keen to make book donations. Offers of further help then came from publishers, schools, teachers, students, bookstores, companies, doctors, airlines, a university, a freight company, foundations, family, friends and the general public. Offers of help also came from abroad. It was awesome!

In just eight weeks over $10,000 was raised, with the Australian High Commission in Kenya making a significant contribution toward this total. Around 220kg of beautiful books – mostly brand new – were generously provided. In addition, the money raised exceeded that required to construct this library, so remaining funds will now be used to aid in the construction of further primary school libraries in the region. How cool is that?!

To this end, I am arranging to keep open my original website for an extended period, to facilitate further donations toward these additional projects. Feel free to inform others of this web address – www.justgiving.com/sarahwallis

On behalf of Moving Mountains and the Wagai community, I wish to extend my sincere thanks to each and every one of you for contributing to this project. I simply could not have done it without you. The donations, suggestions and support have been invaluable. Thank you for placing your trust in Moving Mountains. Thank you for making a difference.

In light of recent events in Kenya, I understand that all Moving Mountains’ clients, staff and beneficiaries are safe. Sadly, Francis Kioni, who designed and led the construction of the library, did have his hardware business looted and burnt. Sadly also, is that at least one Kenyan involved in the charity, has lost her home. Please keep these special people in your thoughts and prayers.

Again, thank you to everyone who facilitated in the birth of this project. Know that you have contributed to bringing more joy than you can possibly imagine, to the six hundred youngsters of Wagai Primary School.

Kind regards,

Sarah Wallis