Press Release

Donations of science and math text books from the Franklin Middle School

Ebeye students say “Kommol Tata!” which means “Thank You!” in Marshallese

Donations of science and math text books from the Franklin Middle School through the Vallejo Unified School District were a hit with middle school students in the tiny island of Ebeye.  The recipients live on a small island on the Kwajelein Atoll in the Marshall Islands, which is 80 acres.  The population is approximately 12,000.  

The students will benefit greatly from this donation, because of the lack of textbooks on the islands.  They say “Kommol Tata!” which means “Thank You!” in Marshallese.   Ryan Ybenez, principal of the 309-student school writes, “Through your help we will now be able to focus our time on learning and be able to have full access to a textbook.”

Jacque Spence, co-founder of Canvasback Missions, explains, “When I heard that the school was going to throw away these books, I asked if they would consider donating them.  Textbooks in the islands are so precious.  There are rarely enough textbooks for each student.  Teachers have to copy their lessons onto the chalkboard.”

Canvasback Missions, Inc., a non-profit organization based in Benicia, CA, sent the textbooks in a 20-foot container that was donated by Matson Lines.  The books were part of a shipment of medical supplies and equipment that was needed for a 16-person medical mission that was just completed.  The team consisted of specialists in orthopedics, dermatology, and radiology and ultrasound education.  Doctors from as far away as Ohio and South Carolina were part of the mission. 

“It was exciting to personally deliver the books to the school and see how appreciative the school children were to have their very own books.  It’s something that we take for granted.” Spence said.

 

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