Sustaining children with special needs

My name is Whitney Lourens. In February 2012 I obtained my bachelor of education degree from the Avans University of Applied Sciences in the Netherlands, where I graduated cum laude.

I have been working in special needs education in primary school for eight years now and it is with great pleasure and privilege that every day I make a positive contribution to the students who are entrusted to me.

In recent years I have discovered that my preference lies with working with children with special needs. I became aware that I am very interested in students who are slightly different from others in the school system. Children who have a range of learning or cognitive disabilities, or emotional/ behavioral problems (Autism, ADHD, Reactive Attachment Disorder, Oppositional Defiant Disorder, Reading and Learning Disabilities etc.). These children have the potential to and can form a vital and productive part of our society despite their disorders. I also realized that to be able to better connect and fulfill the basic needs of these students and to further improve their education in an innovative way, I will have to pursue further education.

After an extensive research I found a degree that fits the requirements for further development and training. The master degree in Child Development and Education is part of the university’s educational sciences department. The course will enable me to think with theory to help tackle problems in innovative and exciting ways relevant to the development of children with special needs. My aim is to educate, support, guide and enable them to reach their full potential and apply their talents effectively. Hence I am very excited to start the training as soon as possible.

Unfortunately, I am not able to cover the educational fees due to my financial obligations, which encompasses repayments of student loans and other fixed expenses. My employer is not able to cover these fees due to budgetary restrictions. In addition, the government provides limited resources to educational institutions. Hence, I have to arrange this personally. I sincerely would like to develop myself further, and gain the knowledge to manage the growth of my students with special needs and increase their chance of becoming productive members of the society.

My wish is that everyone who read my story is able relate to my situation and in particular the benefits for my students. Consequently I hope you are willing to support me with a financial contribution. All donations are welcome, no matter how small the amount. The total required amount is € 11,000 (approximately $ 12,475).

Thank you very much for your help. I sincerely appreciate that you took the time to read and consider my story!

Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions.

(P.S. The students faces in the campaign image has been covered due to the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR))