Students Send Mosquito Nets to Africa

After learning about malaria, a few young students at Morganton Day School organized a fundraiser to send mosquito nets to children in Africa.

It all began when the second graders at MDS learned about the malaria problem in Africa and how the deadly disease is spread by mosquitoes. When word spread to the kindergartners that children die from this mosquito-borne illness, the younger students were very upset and wanted to know what they could do to help. They spent their free centers time researching and looking for solutions with adult help.

The students found an organization that sends mosquito nets to African children, and they decided to hold a bake sale to raise money. After presenting their plan to Dr. Mikusa, MDS head of school, nine students from kindergarten and older grades sold baked goods at Homer’s in downtown Morganton. The students worked together with parents to bake, set up the sale, and tell customers about the purpose of the sale. They raised a total of $300 and put the money into a campaign with “Nothing But Nets,” a company dedicated to distributing mosquito nets to prevent malaria.

“It was such an incredible experience to see children as young as five years old take action for something they have never seen or experienced. This is what our school is all about: global-mindedness, nurturing and fostering even the tiniest learners' spirits and interests in an effort to make the world a better place,” says Melanie Miller, Kindergarten teacher at MDS.

Morganton Day School’s 5-star pre-K program and International Baccalaureate program for K-8 provides opportunities for student to inquire and take initiative in a safe and nurturing learning environment. Students are encouraged to take risks, solve problems, and work together while respecting others’ opinions and cultures.