connecting Title I schools to the world beyond.
— ONE WORLD. ONE HEART. GLOBAL CITIZEN PROGRAM —
As the School Operations Manager for KIPP STRIVE Primary/KIPP Atlanta Schools, I coordinated all local and international field lessons. As our school grew, I recognized that many of our families had limited experiences outside of Atlanta. To address this, I created a structured opportunity to broaden their horizons and expand our scholars' worldviews starting in kindergarten. This vision led to the creation of the One World, One Heart global citizenship program.
The program engaged over 100 families and emphasized exposure to different cultures and giving back to the communities we visited. Our elementary scholars participated in meaningful volunteer service projects, such as assisting at the Ronald McDonald House in Puerto Rico, supporting an orphanage in Aruba, and collecting and donating clothing to a school in the Dominican Republic.
As the Operations Manager, I oversaw every aspect of planning and logistics for this program, including:
Family Engagement: I conducted periodic meetings throughout the school year to prepare families for the experience and provided simple language instruction.
Logistical Coordination: I managed all travel arrangements, including flights, accommodations, transportation, meals, and scheduling.
Financial Oversight: I handled invoices, payments, and budgeting to ensure the trip was financially feasible for families and the school.
Passport Assistance: I supported families in completing passport applications and navigating travel documentation.
Vendor & Partner Relations: I coordinated with transportation providers, volunteer sites, and local vendors to ensure a seamless experience.
Communication & Materials: I created program materials and maintained consistent communication with families to keep them informed and prepared.
The planning process was intensive but incredibly rewarding. Hearing stories from parents who shared how this program allowed them to experience "firsts"—flying on an airplane, swimming in the ocean, or exploring new foods—reinforced the impact of this initiative. These moments inspired me to find more ways to provide opportunities for our scholars and their families to explore the world beyond their immediate surroundings.
