CLEVELAND — Natividad Pagán International Newcomers Academy, a Cleveland school that serves children learning English after recently arriving from around the world, is asking for community support to improve its athletic facilities and uniforms ahead of the new soccer season.

The middle school soccer program, which has a history of winning championships, currently plays on a small field behind the school. Teachers and staff say the space is in urgent need of upgrades to keep students safe and to build school pride.

“This is where our kids won championships,” said Elias Lopez, dean of engagement at the school.

Soccer coach and teacher Sarah Blankenship said safety is her biggest concern.

“I've picked up broken glass before and so because it's open to the community and it's not secure,

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