Twelve-year-old Cass Huff was at home recovering from her 33rd spinal surgery when she decided to organize a fundraiser for the special education classmates she tutors. In less than two months, Huff raised enough money to buy seven iPads, shatter-proof cases, and voice recognition apps for an entire special education class at Sylvester Middle School.

The seventh-grader surprised her classmates at a school-wide assembly on January 16.

Cass was the first student selected at be part of the school’s new Peer Tutor program. For one period a day, she tutors special education students. Cass was so successful that the school rapidly grew the program to several periods a day.

“The fact that Cass saw a need for communication devices in the class where she tutors and took it upon herself to fill the need in a few short weeks is amazing,” said Assistant Principal Robin Furlan. “Cass is one of those amazing students who inspires you to be a better person just by knowing her. She is courageous, selfless, and wise beyond her years.”

Born with a rare dwarfism syndrome, Cass regularly has spine surgeries.

“She was bored, recovering at home, and came up with the idea,” said Cass’ mom, Shannon Reynolds. “By the time I got home from work one day, she had set up a Go Fund Me page and already raised $165. I’m blown away.”

Cass didn’t stop with the Go Fund Me Page. She solicited help from teachers and students, local businesses, media outlets, and even celebrities. Soon, Cass raised nearly $6,000.