Amina’s Walk Back to School “My name is Amina. I am 11 years old. I live in the settlement with my grandmother. My parents are not around, so my grandmother takes care of me and my younger cousin. Every morning, I wake up early to prepare for school. The school is far from our home, and the road is very rough. There are stones, thorns, and sometimes broken glass. Before, I did not have shoes. I used to walk barefoot. My feet were always hurting. Some days, my feet had wounds and I could not even walk well. When it rained, the road became muddy and cold. I stayed at home many times because the pain was too much. When I missed school, I felt sad because I like learning. When I received the shoes, I was very happy. I remember wearing them and walking around our home. I could not stop smiling. The shoes were strong and comfortable. The next day, I walked to school without fear. My feet did not hurt anymore. Now, I go to school every day. I reach early and sit in front of the class. I listen to my teacher and I answer questions. I like reading and writing. I feel confident when I stand up to speak. I have friends, and we walk together to school. I feel like I belong. One day, I want to become a teacher. I want to help other children who are like me. I want them to know that education is important and that they can achieve their dreams.