What could be more challenging than running 155 miles in the Sahara Desert? I believe providing exemplary, full service education to high need, low-income public school students presents a greater challenge. On a daily basis, Gardner Pilot Academy (GPA) tackles this challenge.

GPA is a full inclusion Boston Public School, providing students with an extended day, exceptional instruction, and medical and mental health supports. 92% of the students we teach live at or below the poverty line. Our instruction is driven by a passionate and committed staff who tirelessly work to provide every student with an all encompassing education. Learn more at gardnerpilotacademy.org.

GPA wants to provide all students with access to 21st century technology, something we don't currently have. Watch the video.

In April 2013, I will run the Marathon de Sables, a 155 mile race through the Sahara Desert, in which runners carry with them all food and supplies necessary for the duration of the race. It is considered by many to be the world's most difficult race in which runners endure 120 degree heat, sand storms, and run between 26 and 50 miles a day. Learn more at www.darbaroud.com. I will be competing in this race in order to raise $50,000 to purchase a classroom set of laptops for our 6th graders. 

100% of your tax-deductible contribution will go toward the purchase of laptops. None of your donations will go toward my personal race or transportation fees.

Laptops will be purchased through the Boston Public Schools. By purchasing laptops through BPS, we receive a discounted price as well as technical support, an internal GPS tracking device, and preloaded software. The remaining donations will be used for a printer and locks. If there are additional funds remaining we will purchase computers for our elementary grades. Laptops will not be sent home with students. 

By donating $50 or more you will receive personalized thank-yous from our students (if you choose to email me your address upon submitting your donation). Our students deeply appreciate the generous gifts we receive from people like you.

This is an incredible opportunity for you to contribute to a cause that will have a tangible and long lasting impact on the lives of low-income, multicultural, urban public school students. 

Running is usually an individual sport. But this will be a team effort.

Join the team by donating here. 

If you have any questions or feedback you can email me at elizabethbyron@gmail.com

Special thanks to Saucony, OpenView Venture Partners, Marathon Sports and Columbia Sportswear for supporting our effort.