Classroom Project

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I am a fourth grade teacher in a high-need public school. I teach all main subjects, as well as, health, handwriting, and character education. The school at which I work is incredible. All who work there are remarkable and inspirational human beings. I have never seen... MORE

I am a fourth grade teacher in a high-need public school. I teach all main subjects, as well as, health, handwriting, and character education. The school at which I work is incredible. All who work there are remarkable and inspirational human beings. I have never seen such dedicated faculty and staff. They are truly there for the kids and to see them through challenges and successes.

Obstacles that students and I face on a daily basis are lack of materials. Our school does not supply teachers with materials. The teachers must pay for materials out of pocket and are not reimbursed. Like most teachers, I can only buy what I can afford, which is not much. Most of the materials that are in my classroom are what I have made on my own.

The items that my students need are fraction manipulatives. Fractions are such an abstract concept, students need to be able to manipulate fractional pieces in order to comprehend. These manipulatives will benefit students in many ways. First, they will allow students to be actively engaged while I am instructing. Instead of "telling" them about fractions, they will be able to manipulate them individually and see the fractional parts. In addition, the materials will provide differentiated instruction. The basic skills stamp set will give students who need reteaching or extra practice with fractions, the materials they need to practice. The Fraction Contraption game gives challenge students the opportunity to stretch their brain and use higher level thinking skills. These materials will support each student, at his or her personal level.

Your donation will make it possible for my students to feel successful, when so much around them has made them feel like failures. Many of my students come to school with so much baggage and life experiences that I will never have to face. It breaks my heart to know that the breakfast and free lunch served during the school day is their only meal as well as their only motivation to come to school. It has always been my goal to help these students understand that, through education, anything is possible. Education is a way out of their current situation. Having these materials allows me to be one step closer in accomplishing my goal. Having access to materials helps me to plan lessons where students will be actively engaged. When students can have hands on learning and manipulate problems, they are more successful, and ensuring that these kids can be successful helps them to believe in themselves and their capabilities. HIDE