Carrollton community finds gratitude and joy through Miami Learning Experience

Miami Learning Experience (MLE) is a Miami-based school dedicated to providing specialized education and support for children with disabilities, helping each student thrive in a supportive and empowering environment. For years, Carrollton students have built a meaningful relationship with MLE, showing up not only on Service Day but through a club dedicated entirely to supporting the school and its students. The club’s connection to MLE runs deep, rooted in personal ties and a shared belief that every child deserves to be celebrated.

Leading that charge is Emma Avino ’27, who founded the MLE club at Carrollton and has spent years walking alongside the MLE community. “I grew up attending the MLE walk since I was little as my cousin is a student there,” she said. “Now starting the club at Carrollton, I love to see how hands-on service has changed the members’ lives and my own. My hope for the future is to have the most walkers from Carrollton, so get up, register, and walk for MLE.”

For those who have visited, the experience of spending time with MLE’s students leaves a lasting impression. “I love spending time with all the kids there because they are so kind and loving and always spread joy,” said Carolina Kadre ’27.

That joy is something many students find transformative.  “I loved visiting MLE because it really opened my eyes and showed me how other people with far larger struggles than me are so happy and grateful to everyone who comes in,” ‘said Alessandra Arrieta ’29.

Together, these experiences point to something greater than a single afternoon of service. MLE is a place where Carrollton students are not just giving, but receiving, walking away with a renewed sense of gratitude and a deeper understanding of what it means to live joyfully despite hardship. Through the MLE club and Service Day, Carrollton’s relationship with Miami Learning Experience continues to grow, rooted in compassion and a commitment to supporting those who inspire us most.