School: Smithville High School
Class: Literature of Social Change
Instructor: Rick Henry
Client: REHOPE
Problem: How can literature and real-world experiences help us understand the realities of human trafficking and inspire action to support victims and raise awareness in our own communities?
Summary
This CCP began with students in the Literature of Social Change course reading Sold by Patricia McCormick, a powerful novel detailing the harrowing experiences of a young girl trafficked from Nepal. Deeply moved by the story, students sought to better understand the realities of human trafficking closer to home—specifically in the Kansas City region.
To deepen their learning, the class partnered with REHOPE, a local faith-based organization that supports survivors of human trafficking. With the help of the school’s RWL Coordinator, students welcomed Roxie, an administrator and therapist from REHOPE, along with a survivor, for a classroom presentation. The visitors shared personal stories, national and local statistics, and practical ways trafficking begins and persists across communities. The survivor’s testimony had a lasting impact on students, sparking thoughtful questions and meaningful reflection.
In response, students collaborated to generate ideas on how to raise awareness and support victims of trafficking. Although time constraints prevented implementation, the project empowered students with knowledge, empathy, and actionable strategies to recognize and address human trafficking within their communities.
Takeaways
This was a very powerful and moving CCP but due to time constraints the final products were not fully developed, and implemented in the future I will approach the next project differently so that students will be able to implement their ideas.
Advice
Work steadily with your mentor and cohort group.
Standards/Learning Targets
11th and 12th grade reading, writing, listening, and speaking standards