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Writer's pictureJestine Lackner

A Note from the Founder

Updated: Jun 19

Hello Sustainable Classrooms Community,


If you’re not already up to date on my recent milestones, let me fill you in!


I recently graduated from the College of Business & Economics at the University of Idaho in May. I received my Bachelor of Science in Business Management & Human Resources, with certificates in Business Analytics, Small Business Management, and Technical Programs Management.


While many graduates say, "I'm heading off to grad school at [insert prestigious university]" or "I've just accepted a job at [insert corporate business]," my story is a little different, and I am excited to share it with you! :)


Last year, just before starting my senior year of college, I took some time to travel through Southeast Asia and Europe. What started as a study abroad trip was disrupted by COVID, and transformed into a solo exploration through Chaing Mai, Thailand, as well as a journey across 12 different countries in the span of four months. This incredible experience allowed me to immerse myself in new cultures through volunteer service and meaningful conversations and sparked a strong calling to help those in need.


When I returned to the States last fall to finish my degree, I immediately applied for the Peace Corps and dove into entrepreneurship classes to learn about the opportunities available to me to pursue my newfound passion. The Peace Corps offered me a position in Morocco as a Child Development Specialist, right at the time I was competing in entrepreneurship competitions across the Pacific Northwest.


My startup ideas for building classrooms in rural communities of developing countries using recycled plastic bricks gained traction in several of the competitions, winning start-up funds and opening doors that I hadn’t even known were available! What started as just an idea unexpectedly turned into a very real opportunity, and a chance for me to start making a long-term impact in the lives of others.


I made connections with mentors to help me pursue my goals, received a generous donation from an amazing family, and have since partnered with Style Her Empowered to go and build the first pilot classroom in Togo, Africa this fall!


This exciting journey has unfolded quickly, realizing dreams I had only a year ago, and it wouldn't have been possible without the overwhelming support I've received. If you would like to find out more about supporting my journey and Sustainable Classrooms, please feel free to reach out to me directly or visit our website at www.sustainableclassrooms.eco.

Thank you for listening to my story and for your support on this journey. If you do feel called to make a donation, please visit our donate page.


We encourage you to subscribe to our newsletter and find us on social media to follow along on our journey and to find out more ways to support Sustainable Classrooms.


With heartfelt gratitude,

Jestine Lackner

Founder of Sustainable Classrooms


Picture taken from the Nam Xay Viewpoint in Vang Vieng, Laos during their burning season.
Picture taken from the Nam Xay Viewpoint in Vang Vieng, Laos during their burning season.


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