CBCS grows relationship with sister school in Afghanistan

Students receive a special visit

by Kelly Jo Clark

ìWe have a Sister School in Afghanistan?î

Yes! We do! Some of you may remember that in 2007, CBCS and people from our town began a partnership with an organization called Journey with an Afghan School. We raised enough money in our little community to build a school in northern Afghanistan for 1,500 girls. The school was built quickly and in 2008, a small contingent from here went to be a part of the opening ceremony and dedication of the school.

But what does it mean to be a sister school?

I’m glad you asked. The unique thing about this endeavor is that is was not just a one-time event. We, as a school and a community, have committed to an ongoing relationship with this Afghan school near the city of Mazar-i-sharif. Mostly, this relationship has been about hosting a fundraiser almost every year to continue to support the ongoing education of girls through the parent organization (which changed its name to Sahar). Other ways the relationship has continued is through awareness-raising opportunities, either in individual classrooms at Crested Butte Community School or as a wider community. Please take advantage of learning more about the area where our sister school is located any chance you get. We need to always keep a special place in our hearts for the particular group of girls and teachers in northern Afghanistan.

The elementary students at CBCS had a very unique opportunity to be reminded of our sister school this past Tuesday. Airokhsh Faiz Qaisary visited and spoke to the elementary students about life in Afghanistan. Although she herself did not attend our sister school, she grew up near there and has had the chance to be there recently, through her work with Sahar. We are so grateful for her visit and the news she brought along of our sister school doing well and thriving. CBCS second graders were thrilled to give Airokhsh a check from their read-a-thon that will go toward more books in Afghanistan and more equipment for their computer lab.

“I’d like to be more involved and/or
donate toward this worthy cause.
How do I get Involved?”

Visit Sahar’s website (www.sahareducation.org) to learn more about what they are doing in Afghanistan. Talk with Bobby Pogoloff or Sally Hensley at our school. Or find Kelly Jo Clark at (970) 209-1613.