Completed:Computers For Harlem Students In Special Education
"I am seeking funding for two Apple laptop computers for 7th and 8th grade students with learning disabilities in East Harlem.
I am a Special Education teacher in East Harlem and work hard to instill the belief to each of my students that they are capable through hard work to achieve the goals tha...
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"I am seeking funding for two Apple laptop computers for 7th and 8th grade students with learning disabilities in East Harlem.
I am a Special Education teacher in East Harlem and work hard to instill the belief to each of my students that they are capable through hard work to achieve the goals that they have dreamed for their futures. Our school is small and resources are limited. Very often Special Education students receive leftovers and second hand materials.
It is expected each month that bulletin boards be updated with exemplary student work that have gone through multi-steps of revision. These presentations are also expected to be typed, yet access to technology is often unavailable or not working. My students come from economically challenged homes and none of them have a computer in the house.
Having a learning disability myself (dyslexia), I have learned to overcome some of my difficulties with the help of computer programs and word processing (and who could live without spell check!). I would like to share the techniques that have helped me to succeed with my students. Having computers will be another tool for showing them that their disabilities will not keep them from success.
Apple computers are also known for their programs in the graphic arts. Although my students have learning disabilities, many of them are highly skilled artists and I highlight this talent to offset their struggles in other areas.
As the world of technology advances I aim to provide my students with the most current materials and give them all the opportunities to find success where they have previously met with failure.
The cost of two Apple PowerBook G4 12" with Combo Drives is $4,077, including shipping and fulfillment .
Ms. S. sent this note after the project was fully funded:
Oct 24, 2006
Dear Claire, Leslie, Christopher, Melanie, Glenn, Jonathan, McIntoshes Family, ronald, sissy, Christine, Gina, Noranne, Bruce, Sara, and Cecilia, Angie, Vijay, Brennan, ashewy, Anthony, Tom & Nela Navarro, Mary Therese, dafna, Mr and Mrs Milton E, Tony and Judi, Wendy, Kelli, Michael J., Steve, Monica, Jean, Patricia, Paula, Ann-Marie, Eric, Kyle, Mark, Suzanne and Anonymous Donor,
Wow! I am so excited to bring current technology to my students. This is such a fantastic donation that you have given us!
Technology is a crucial part of our world today. I work with Special Education students with learning disabilities. Most of them have dyslexia and have trouble especially with English Language Arts.
Recently a student of mine screamed in frustration because he was unable to read his own writing (it was a speech for class President). I had a private conference with the child and explained to him that many people have difficulties spelling and the most important part were his thoughts. I told him that "spell check" is a tool that nearly all adults use when editing their writing. I also told him that we would soon have access to computers where he would be able to check all of his work. He brightened at that thought.
Another student loves to read and can understand complex concepts, yet has difficulty reading written words. Having the ability to download audible books onto an ipod where she can listen to books that are on level with her comprehension, will improve her reading and more importantly keep her involved in reading.
My students are also very visual and often learn best this way. Having access to videos and a computer to view them on will be useful in all subject areas.
Again I thank you for all that you are contributing to our classroom.
Sincerely,
Ms. S
On May 23, 2007, Ms. S. followed this note with student letters sent via mail to the donor who completed this project, and to donors who gave $100 or more.
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Syron K. (staff member)
on Oct 12, 2005
