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Education is a Right – Help Laurel Access It

$3,585 donated
Given by 27 generous donors in 10 weeks

Raising funds to support Laurel’s journey in a school that truly celebrates neurodiversity and belonging.

Auckland

This page was set up to help contribute towards my son Laurel’s education. His school fees are over $20,000 per year. Until recently, he was receiving a scholarship, unfortunately, that is no longer available for next year.

Laurel attends Summit Point School in Takapuna, Auckland. This private school equips neurodiverse children academically while valuing and nurturing them, which is very different from the deficit-based education system in Aotearoa.

Laurel is the sweetest and funniest 14-year-old boy, who loves making whānau and friends laugh with his jokes and infectious smile. He takes life in his stride and has overcome many obstacles. He has three formal diagnoses: dyslexia, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), which we refer to in te reo Māori as takiwātanga.

Despite his differences and learning needs, Laurel has never qualified for support or services through the Ministry of Education. Because of this, he cannot attend a mainstream school, and Summit Point School is the only environment where he can truly thrive.

The school fees are a significant financial challenge, and I have exhausted all other avenues.

This kaupapa is deeply important to me and our whānau, and any koha, big or small, is sincerely appreciated. Thank you for helping make a difference.

Phoenix Karena's involvement (page creator)

Kia ora, I’m Laurel’s māmā, Phoenix. Our whānau is doing everything we can to keep him in a school that understands and supports his unique way of learning. I want to give him the best chance to succeed, not only in education but in life.

Use of funds

The money raised with go directly towards the costs of his school fees.

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Latest donations

Guest Donor
Guest Donor on 21 Nov 2025
Private
Tiana E
Tiana E on 23 Oct 2025
E tāua le aʻoaʻoga
$50
Emmy
Emmy on 22 Oct 2025
$20
Guest Donor
Guest Donor on 21 Oct 2025
Private
NIKAU THE DOGUE
NIKAU THE DOGUE on 16 Oct 2025
From Nikau The Dogue In Brisbane!!
$50

Who's involved?

Phoenix Karena's avatar
Created by, and paying to a verified bank account of, Phoenix Karena on behalf of My son Laurel
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This campaign started on 4 Oct 2025 and ends on 4 Apr 2026.