Bringing hope and education to students in need

Since the ATA News article titled “Ukrainian students need teachers” was published on May 31, 2022, a remarkable journey has unfolded. What began as David Falconer’s lone volunteer effort to support internally displaced students in Ukraine has now blossomed into a global initiative known as Classrooms Without Walls (CWW). This organization provides free online schooling to children and youth in Ukraine, Myanmar and Afghanistan.

Over the past two years, CWW has grown exponentially, touching the lives of tens of thousands of students. This progress has been made possible through the unwavering support of preservice teachers from various Canadian and international universities, as well as current and retired teachers from numerous countries.
Incredible things have happened thanks to the efforts of our teacher volunteers. One of CWW’s four programs, known as the Winds of Change Leadership Youth Group, recently finished writing a book over 100 pages long. It is hard to believe this when you consider the contexts in which many of the students still reside! This youth group also has been working on a podcast and a YouTube channel. Their work is nothing short of remarkable and inspiring.

While we are fortunate to have many volunteer teachers, the need for education and hope in these conflict-affected regions is immense. CWW is always looking for more dedicated teachers to join our mission. Teachers involved in CWW not only share academic knowledge but also give the invaluable gift of hope.

Over the past two years, Classrooms Without Walls has grown exponentially, touching the lives of tens of thousands  of students. 

The need for hope is especially urgent given the current crises in these regions. Ukraine is dealing with the Russian invasion; Myanmar is in the midst of a civil war, with millions of students not attending school; and in Afghanistan, the Taliban does not allow girls ages 12 and up to attend school.

Volunteers typically teach for one hour a week and, ideally, they will provide a course consisting of a minimum of seven lessons. This number of lessons is ideal as it provides time for the teachers and students to develop trusting relationships. Topics can range from English as a second language to English language arts, math, social studies, sciences, art, music, health and even physical education. Grade levels range from Grade 1 to Grade 12, and participating teachers can choose the grade and age level they wish to teach. Classes are conducted on Zoom, and teachers always have a host present in the virtual classroom.

The benefits of joining CWW are manifold. 

For volunteer teachers, this experience offers an opportunity to fine-tune professional skills, create a lasting impact and contribute to the education of students in some of the most challenging environments. Our teachers provide these students with opportunities for a better future, an impact that is both profound and enduring.

For our students, the benefits extend beyond academics. The emotional and moral support provided by dedicated teachers, coupled with access to quality education, can make an enormous difference in their lives. It is an unfortunate reality that in many of these countries, such quality education is simply out of reach.

Weekly virtual introductory sessions are held for new volunteers. These sessions, approximately one-hour long, cover the history of CWW, information about our students, times and days teachers are needed, trauma-informed practices and general information about ongoing support. 

Teaching with CWW is an incredible journey of making a difference in the lives of students who have faced unimaginable challenges. Together we can provide them with the hope and education they deserve.