Day Out for Empathy

Funded Apr 16, 2016

To our Dear Donors,

June 13 was an unforgettable experience for my students and my colleagues as well. The beautiful weather added to the wonderful experience we all had at the NY Aquarium in Coney Island. Our students became children once more as we started our adventure with the Sponge Bob 3D movie. At first, they were saying it was childish because they are no longer children but as soon as the movie started and lights went off, all of them started laughing their hearts out! Including us, the teachers😊. That was the ignition key that started off their fun as we went about our day itinerary.

We proceeded inside the museum and watched how the park attendants were cleaning up the tank full of fishes and sting rays. They stood in amazement and watched how empathy is played out in front of them. Caring for animals in action is the most impressive and long lasting memory they would take with them even after the trip. These men in swimming suits were displaying compassion and empathy to ensure that the marine animals were looked after.

They moved gradually from one small aquarium to the next, looking and taking pictures of themselves. Scholars who would not speak to each other were joking, taking pictures and showing one another what they were observing, as they looked at each aquarium housing one or more marine species. I saw right in front of my eyes how my students saw each other and enjoyed each others company while soaking up the beauty and colors of the marine life. Like the species in the tanks communing and sharing the small space they live in, my students did the same. They recognize that limited space can be limitless when we humble ourselves in getting to know each other and recognizing the fact that despite the issues we face elsewhere, togetherness with peers can still alleviate those ill feelings.

The highlight of the day was the one hour sea lion show where they learned how human behaviors endanger the lives of these aquatic species- from throwing plastics into our waters to polluting the environment. I heard one of them say he would stop buying plastic bottles from now on so he would no longer be a part of the problem. The show certainly warmed their hearts seeing how those sea lions did orchestrated dance movement for their audience that day! Another highlight of the trip was Of course the trip to McDonald's. They sat together sharing the fun things they did in the museum. They laughed at each Other's shallow experience and at the same time remembered how today is the last trip day of their school year. They had a wonderful time.

I would not have made this day special for them without your support and my deepest gratitude is extended to each and everyone of you, Donors. Thank you for making it happen and for letting me experience and ensure with that seeds of Empathy had been planted in their hearts that day.”

With gratitude,

Ms. Acedo