Vladiana Borcea

Vladiana's father would not let her attend our summer school in 2003 and, despite our repeated urging, would not enroll her for fall. One night in October, our volunteer physician, Florin Drezaliu, took their baby to the emergency room. Afterward, in gratitude, the father "gave his word" that he would send Vladiana to school - and indeed he did. He is also now sending her younger brother Alin (age 4) to kindergarten! With the support of a grant from Peter and Kim Hakkenberg, Vladiana has been attending school regularly and getting good grades. Hers is the first truly "traditional" Gypsy family (i.e., fully immersed in Roma language, dress, customs, etc.), whom we have convinced to send their children to school.