Claire started volunteering at King Elementary during the fall as part of her English Language Institute 390 Course at the University of Michigan. She enjoyed her time so much that she stayed on even after the course had ended. Claire is bilingual in Chinese and has been able to use that skill to support English Language Learners at King. Claire was a reliable and consistent volunteer that teachers at King knew they could count on. The positive influence Claire had on the student’s she served was easy to see. Teachers noted that student confidence increased with Claire’s support. 

Claire was able to form a connection with two students in particular, who spoke Chinese and had just arrived in Michigan.  Even though the students were initially overwhelmed by both the culture and school curriculum, Claire quickly established a rapport with the students and set them at ease.  She connected with the students and their families in a personal way.  She shared her art, her dance and her positive life experiences, which helped with comprehending the curriculum and aided in the progress of the student’s school work and studies.  

The teachers that worked with Claire at King Elementary all enjoyed and loved working with her.  They appreciated the time, care and effort that Claire put into working with their students and they wish her all the best for the future.