bridging travel, education, and digital gaps with the too fly virtual flight academy

The Too Fly Foundation continuously works to bridge generations and inspire curiosity abroad. We understand the value of travel for our students but also recognize the glaring gaps students of color are facing in education, technology and, of course, travel. These gaps are more apparent due to the current COVID-19 climate.

Education.

The educational gap between black-white achievement is still extremely high. The Coleman Report shows that the average black student in 12th grade scores in the 13th percentile for a number of subjects. Meaning that 87% of other students are ahead of the average black 12th grade student. This is not much different than what it was 50 years prior, which is difficult to comprehend. Students in lower income school districts and homes are unfortunately impacted by this global change. During the current pandemic, students are at home and those in underserved communities may not have access to basic needs - such as laptops, stable internet, etc. - for distance learning and teachers and parents are looking for engaging ways to occupy their children. It’s important to leverage this time to find solutions to ensure students in our target communities have the educational tools in order to keep the education and achievement gaps from widening.

Technology.

The technological gap, also known as the “Digital Divide,” for students of color and low income is continuously growing. 50% of low-income and 42% of families of color lack sufficient devices and home access for distance learning. Students aren’t getting the exposure they need in schools and don’t have the means at home. This alone widens both the technological and educational gaps. We’ve seen technological revolutions accross the globe, for example Africa’s technology is taking off with technology hubs growing at a rate of 50% over the last year. At Too Fly, it is at our foundation that we don’t only help provide means for students to travel abraod, but we also help to expose access and opportunities. From the rise of Virtual & Augemented Reality, Artificial Intelligence, and corporations digital focus, one of the first steps in proving access to our students is exposing them to technology and STEM resources at home and abroad.

Travel.

Statistics show that students of color make up approximately 6% of students who study abroad. Educational travel gives students the opportunity to experience what they've learned in a classroom setting in real life. There is no better classroom than the world. Students gain global perspective and have a better sense of humanity when placed in environments outside of their own. These are just a few examples of what travel has the ability to provide. Studies show, black students who studied abroad had about a 31% higher graduation rates than those who did not. This proves that there is 1) power in travel and 2) room for improvement. Students like Ashalah, a Too Fly passport recipient, says “I believe that all students should be able to participate in these types of travel experiences.” Speaking on her travels to Belize. She also said, “My time in Belize was such a phenomenal experience: life transforming and a growth opportunity.”

the virtual too fly flight academy bridges gaps.

Too Fly will be taking our flight academy digital, addressing the need to bridge the gaps between travel, education and technology for students of color. Through our program we are looking to expose students to new technologies, motivate students to learn and encourage students to travel.

When travel restrictions are lifted the communities we are serving may be less likely to travel now more than ever with financial hardships. Ideally, we’d be bringing these opportunities in their homes and giving them unique travel opportunities through education and technology.

if you are interested in partnering with us to help students #travelathome through our virtual flight academy educational program please contact us at tooflyfundraiser@gmail.com

the “why” of Too Fly.

testimonials

Jordan (Ghana)

I’ve learned I’ve been selfish to ever say that I’m hungry or to envy people for having more than me. After this experience and what I went through in Ghana I am making the effort to show more gratitude for my blessings. Also, because I saw people still working to make better for themselves, I’ve recognized that with as much that I have, I am better equipped to help myself and other people who are less fortunate. Being back in the States, I want to spend some time learning how I can use my comparative wealth to make the lives of those who aren’t as well off, better.

Danivia A. (Trinidad)

The most impactful thing I experienced was when I able to provide the kindles for the children of the school. They may not have known exactly what or how it may have benefited them, but the joy from the teachers eyes was fulfilled from us devoting our time and happiness to the children. This was my first time ever visiting a country outside the United States and I was able to do so because I received a passport from Too Fly! Thank you!

Enaija (Senegal)

This experience was so impactful and has left an everlasting mark on my life and thought process. It was a blessing to have been able to interact with the Senegalese students, their families and see such a beautiful country and all it had its offer. Senegal is a beautiful country with so much to offer to its people and the world. During the Summer Heritage Program, we spoke with NGOs who partook in solar energy efforts around Senegal.

Adam G. (Senegal)

Not a lot of people, no matter what age can travel especially if you’re a minority, it seems like, but Too Fly allowed me to travel and look at the world differently and to finally say that I’ve been somewhere that my ancestors may have stood makes me extremely interested to not only go back to Senegal but to continue my exploration in Africa by going to each and every country that I can possibly get to which is now my long term goal thanks to Too Fly.

Ethan L. (Tokyo)

During my time in Tokyo, Japan, I learned much about Japanese culture, people, and even had the opportunity to receive college credit. Going on this journey has been one of the most impactful experiences in my life. [My trip] will help me with future experiences. Understanding the culture, people, and customs has opened my eyes to how different America is to the rest of the world. Thank you to the Too Fly Foundation for making this experience possible.

Deja'Rae S.

I've always wanted to see more than what the average girl from where I came from would see….I can now take my travels outside the country, and as of right now my favorite place to go is all of the places I haven't been to yet. You all could have chosen anyone, thank you so much from the bottom of my heart for choosing me. I will forever be thankful.

Anaya S. (Guadeloupe)

My time in Guadeloupe has opened my eyes to traveling in a different way. Instead of traveling somewhere and just relax and do things that tourists do, but instead to go deeper into the place you are visiting and learn about the history, culture, environment, and geography of that country. By doing this, not only are you educating yourself on the place, but also be interested in the country more.

Ashala W. (Belize)

The Too Fly Foundation made this experience possible... Returning from the trip I realized how many options I have and how bright my future is. I believe that all students should be able to participate in these types of travel experiences. My time in Belize was such a phenomenal experience: life-transforming, and a growth opportunity.

VFABrandon MillerMay 27, 2020