"Being an art teacher has many challenges and rewards. Every year I find that my students are teaching me and I am growing stronger as a person. Of course once again this year I am faced with the threat of budget cuts and zero supplies. I can’t tell you how much my students look forward to coming ...
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MORE
"Being an art teacher has many challenges and rewards. Every year I find that my students are teaching me and I am growing stronger as a person. Of course once again this year I am faced with the threat of budget cuts and zero supplies. I can’t tell you how much my students look forward to coming to my classroom. For them art is a time in their day when they can express themselves and be free. They struggle so much in their everyday life, however art helps them escape that. I teach them beyond the basic techniques, tools, and process of the art experience. Art is a means of personal expression. One goal that I have for each of my students is for them to create their own personal vision and become creative thinkers. I am writing to ask for your help.
I have been an art teacher for three years. Our students receive free breakfast and lunch. My students struggle to get to school simply because some of them don’t have a warm bed to sleep in or clean clothes to put on in the morning. I am more then their art teacher. I am their constant support, role model, mentor, and friend. Many of them have the most amazing inner strength just to survive getting through their day. One of the greatest rewards I have is to give them the gift of creativity. I love teaching them art. I give them something to feel good and proud about in a world where they have so little.
In order for my students to have this gift and create their personal vision it is essential for us to have supplies. Right now we have none. I am using all of my left over supplies from last year, which are almost gone and dried out. This year our overall budget was cut once again and we can barely afford to get new books for our students. The last thing the principal is ordering is art supplies. I really want my students to have a well-rounded art program because they deserve the very best. I am asking for paint supplies, print making supplies, clay, paper, and a few other things that I still don’t have in order for my students to get everything they need this year. It would be a shame for my students to miss out on creative opportunities because of a need for supplies. Even if you can only donate a small amount it can make a huge difference in a child’s life.
My students are in desperate need of new markers and colored pencils, construction paper, regular drawing paper, printing materials, watercolors, and some special materials for collage projects. The clay is for our three dimensional unit later in the school year.
The cost of this proposal is $4,334, which includes shipping for any materials requested and fulfillment  ."
HIDE
Ms. T. sent this note after the project was fully funded:
Nov 7, 2009
Dear Mr. Geller, Jonathan and Dara, Bruce Weber and Nan Bush, Friends of Lisa at Little Bear, Heather, Laura, John, Alan & Judi Cohn, Andrew Lowenthal, Adele, tee, Caren and Seth, James, Ralph, Sarah, pai-yen, Smith Family, Sherri, Jason & Mack, Callie, Phyllis & Jim, Laurie & Howard, Erica, jaime, Noah, Marilyn, The Kellys, Nathaniel, laura, Cara, Anisah, Josh, Meredith, Jeffrey, Amanda, Anne, Melissa, Liz, Andrea, Alisha, Trudy, Beth, Henry, The Cohn Family, dorothy, Bronwyn, Linda, Damyanna, Kayla, JANETPLANET, Joan, Scott and Deb, Mara, Brian D, Terese, David & Marla Slater, Allard Cantor, Alison, MARIANNA, Stacey, Nancy, Patrick, Cheryl, Evelyn, Simone, Amaliya, Benj, Becky, Kerry, daniel, Alithia, Annetta Willis, Amber, Angus, Diana, Jean and Anonymous Donors,
I am so grateful to all of you for your extremely generous donations. This year with all of our budget cuts art was deeply affected. Without your help my students wouldn't be able to have a well rounded worthwhile visual art program. I am so thankful that there are still so many people who care about the arts and New York City's school children. My students really love art and creating art in my classroom brings them great joy. Now they will be able to become creative thinkers and expressive themselves in new and meaningful ways. Thank you for helping me teach my students art. It gives me so much joy and makes me so proud to give them a creative artistic voice. You have helped make a difference. With gratitude,
Ms. T.
Photos coming soon!
Region:
New York (City)
Where is the classroom located?
Submitted:
Sep 12, 2009
| Expires:
Jan 12, 2010
Additional Details
Level:
Grades 3-5
Teacher's funded projects:
6
Thank-you punctuality:
60%
Reviewed the project essay and sent follow-up questions if needed.
Angelica G. (volunteer)
on Sep 14, 2009
Verified the cost of the requested resources and posted this project.
Scott C. (associate)
on Sep 15, 2009
"We donated because Bronx Kids are COOL!!!! We hope you and your class are able to reach your goal! All forms of art are extremely important in education and we hope that their academic year will be full of tones, hues, shades, and magnificent colors."
Bruce Weber and Nan Bush
from New York, NY
gave
on Sep 21, 2009
"I helped because I'm a strong believer in Visual Arts education."
Nathaniel
from New York
gave
on Sep 21, 2009
"I gave to this project because i believe in erica trysten"
A donor
gave
on Sep 22, 2009
"I gave to this project because children need art, and I love Lisa Beth, and Erika sounds like she has a big heart. XOXO"
Cheryl
from Florida
gave
on Sep 23, 2009
Alison
from New York
gave
on Sep 23, 2009
"I gave to this project because I support the teachers and the kids - teaching others by providing new opportunities and ways to express oneself is an amazing gift. My donation can make a difference, it's so easy. Imagine is we all gave a little...."
A donor
gave
on Sep 23, 2009
"Thank you so much to everyone who has donated... I can't tell you how much I appreciate it! You are making a difference in my student's lives. I can't wait to create art with them this year."
The teacher Ms. T.
on Sep 23, 2009
"I gave to this project because Erica is our good friend and we care about her students. Good luck!!"
Allard Cantor
from California
gave
on Sep 23, 2009
"I gave to this project because I love The Trestyn Family"
Ralph
from monsey, NY
gave
on Sep 24, 2009
Sarah
from Laguna Niguel, CA
gave
on Sep 24, 2009
"We gave to this project because we believe in the wonderful work Ms. Trestyn is doing in the classroom with her students. "
David & Marla Slater
from New York
gave
on Sep 25, 2009
"We gave to this project because we love Ms. T! "
The Kellys
from New York
gave
on Sep 25, 2009
"I gave to this project because I am a proud graduate of the NYC school system!"
Marilyn
from New Mexico
gave
on Sep 29, 2009
"I gave to this project because I love Erica. She is a wonderful example of the joy that a teacher can bring into the lives of her students."
Terese
from New York
gave
on Sep 30, 2009
"I gave to this project because my sister is an amazing art teacher and her students deserve to be able to create amazing art!"
Jonathan and Dara
from New York, NY
gave
on Oct 1, 2009
"I gave to this project because art education transforms children and provides them with an outlet that the traditional classroom can't easily provide."
A donor
gave
on Oct 1, 2009
"I really can't thank everyone enough who has donated... we need it now more then ever!! OUR SCHOOL IS IN DESPERATE NEED OF SUPPLIES. WE DON"T EVEN HAVE ENOUGH MONEY FOR PAPER THIS YEAR. so please pass the word..."
The teacher Ms. T.
on Oct 2, 2009
"I gave to this project because I went to HS with Jon and I am inspired by his sister. I hope daughter is lucky enough to have great teachers when she gets older"
Brian D
from Cincinnati, OH
gave
on Oct 5, 2009
"I donated because I want to support kids in New York (City)."
Noah
from New York
gave
on Oct 5, 2009
"I donated because I want to support kids in New York (City)."
Josh
from New York
gave
on Oct 8, 2009
"I donated because I want to support kids in New York (City). Keep up the great work Erica!"
Josh
from New York
on Oct 8, 2009
"We give to this project because we support arts education and want to acknowledge Lisa Merkle's thoughtful special support of this organization. We send our gift in loving memory of Esmarelda."
Friends of Lisa at Little Bear
from New York
gave
on Oct 13, 2009
"We give to this project because we support arts education and want to acknowledge Lisa Merkle's thoughtful support of this organization. We send our gift in loving memory of Esmarelda."
Friends of Lisa at Little Bear
from New York
on Oct 13, 2009
"I gave to this project because I believe in Erica Trestyn as a teacher and a mentor."
jaime
from LOS ANGELES, CA
gave
on Oct 15, 2009
"I gave to your project because I believe a foundation in the arts can give you so much--self-expression, a bigger world view, new ways of thinking, and also a fun and creative escape. I had a strong music education, and even though I no longer play, I consider it part of what made me who I am. Great job, to the teachers keeping this alive! Rock on!"
Amanda
from California
gave
on Oct 20, 2009
"I gave to this project because I believe in keep art in schools and I believe in Miss Trestyn. "
Amaliya
from Louisiana
gave
on Oct 21, 2009
"I gave to this project because art has always been and still is a big part of my life. I wouldn't have been able have the artistic experience, background, and all around appreciation if it wasn't for the art teachers who inspired me everyday in school. "
Ali
from Great Falls, VA
gave
on Oct 22, 2009
A donor
gave
on Oct 22, 2009
"I gave to this project because I believe proper equipment is key to optimal learning. My wife is an art teacher also and understands how hard it is to teach without the correct tools."
James
from Mt. Laurel, NJ
gave
on Oct 22, 2009
A donor
gave
on Oct 22, 2009
"I gave to this project because I want all children to have the same chance to learn."
Jean
from New York
gave
on Oct 22, 2009
"I donated because I want to support kids in New York (City)."
Diana
from District of Columbia
gave
on Oct 22, 2009
"I donated because the project will bring important learning opportunities to the classroom."
Caren and Seth
from Austin, TX
gave
on Oct 22, 2009
"Thanks to everyone who donated... I am almost half way there! I know times are tough so I appreciate more then you know. Please spread the word every amount makes a difference."
The teacher Ms. T.
on Oct 22, 2009
"I donated because I want to support kids in New York (City)."
Mara
from New York
gave
on Oct 22, 2009
"I gave to this project because Ms. T rules!!!"
Scott and Deb
from New York
gave
on Oct 22, 2009
pai-yen
from edison, NJ
gave
on Oct 23, 2009
Benj
from Mountain View, CA
gave
on Oct 23, 2009
Meredith
gave
on Oct 23, 2009
Angus
gave
on Oct 23, 2009
Anne
gave
on Oct 23, 2009
Joan
gave
on Oct 23, 2009
Amber
gave
on Oct 23, 2009
"I donated because I want to support kids in New York (City)."
Patrick
from
gave
on Oct 23, 2009
Jeff
from California
gave
on Oct 23, 2009
"I gave to this project because creating art is one of the great joys of being human! Enjoy!"
JANETPLANET
from California
gave
on Oct 24, 2009
"I gave to this project because:
education = important
arts = important,
so funding arts education = :o)"
Simone
from
gave
on Oct 24, 2009
"I donated because I want to support kids in New York (City)."
Kelly
from Concord, CA
gave
on Oct 26, 2009
"I gave to this project because everyone deserves a quality education. "
Kayla
from New York
gave
on Oct 26, 2009
Damyanna
from New York
gave
on Oct 27, 2009
"I gave to this project because my family is all giving charitable gifts for each other at Christmas time. My aunt loves art and music and she loves to support public schools. I'm giving this gift in her honor."
Smith Family
from New York, NY
gave
on Oct 27, 2009
"I helped because I'm a strong believer in Visual Arts education."
tee
from brooklyn, NY
gave
on Oct 27, 2009
"I gave to this project because your story inspired me"
Linda
from New York
gave
on Oct 27, 2009
"I helped because I'm a strong believer in education."
A donor
gave
on Oct 27, 2009
"I gave to this project because I know first-hand the importance of art and education. Education and creativity give you the keys to change your future and the world around you - never let your circumstances force you into anything. You can overcome anything and be successful if you're creative, work hard, and never give up."
Bronwyn
from Los Angeles, CA
gave
on Oct 28, 2009
"I donated because I want to support kids in New York (City)."
dorothy
from New York
gave
on Oct 28, 2009
Erica
from New York
gave
on Oct 28, 2009
"I donated because I want to support kids in New York (City)."
The Cohn Family
from New York
gave
on Oct 28, 2009
"I gave to this project because I love art! Any type of artistic expression is my passion, so I will donate to any project that is related to this area. I pray many more people will donate. Be Blessed."
Annetta Willis
from Jonesboro, GA
gave
on Oct 29, 2009
"I gave to this project because I am a strong believer in art and feel that this gift of expression should not be denied to any student due to lack of funding. My wife teaches art and I see not only the joy it brings to her but to her students as well."
Henry
from New York
gave
on Oct 29, 2009
"I helped because I'm a strong believer in Visual Arts education."
A donor
gave
on Oct 29, 2009
"I gave to this project because your mother, my college sorority sister, brought your plight and that of your students to my attention. I hope your students are grateful and most importantly when they are adults remember the kindness of strangers and will dig deep to help those who deserve a chance to succeed."
Adele
from New Jersey
gave
on Oct 29, 2009
"I gave to this project because I support the loving and dedicated spirit of Ms. Trestyn and her important work with her students. "
Beth
from New York
gave
on Oct 29, 2009
"I gave to this project because I felt it was extremely important and believe that children are special and deserve what is required to make their learning easier. I hope you reach your goal."
Trudy
from New York
gave
on Oct 29, 2009
"I helped because I'm a strong believer in Visual Arts education."
Rachel
from New York
gave
in honor of Laurie & Howard
on Oct 29, 2009
"I gave to this project because I believe in Erica as a great teacher"
Andrew Lowenthal
from
gave
on Oct 30, 2009
"I helped because I'm a strong believer in Visual Arts education."
Alisha
from Irving, TX
gave
on Oct 30, 2009
"I gave to this project because it's a worthy cause. "
Mr. Geller
from glen head, NY
gave
on Oct 30, 2009
Alan & Judi Cohn
from New Jersey
gave
on Oct 30, 2009
"I donated because this teacher cares enough to find new ways to find the materials students need."
Andrea
from Port Washington, NY
gave
on Oct 30, 2009
"I gave to this project because I want you to have all the opportunities to learn that you possibly can!"
A donor
gave
on Oct 31, 2009
"I gave to this project because it was of interest to me but of course all of the projects are for a great cause."
Alithia
from Michigan
gave
on Nov 3, 2009
"I donated because I want to support kids in New York (City)."
Phyllis & Jim
from New York
gave
on Nov 4, 2009
"I helped because I'm a strong believer in Visual Arts education."
John
from New York
gave
on Nov 4, 2009
"I gave to this project because I am into art & I want to support children of NY."
Anisah
from Rexford, NY
gave
on Nov 5, 2009
"I gave to this project because art is important -- thank you! Keep up the good work and look for inspiration everywhere!"
Cara
from Illinois
gave
in support of Amuse Bouche
on Nov 5, 2009
"I gave to this project because teaching the visual and performance arts in school is equally important as teaching something as basic as mathematics. Art brings hope, interest, and beauty to a life of study. With love from an applied mathematician in Ithaca, NY."
Laura
from Ithaca, NY
gave
on Nov 5, 2009
"I gave to this project because all children should be encouraged to create....regardless of their economic condition."
laura
from New York
gave
on Nov 5, 2009
"I gave to this project because I know how important school is & I want all of you to have fun!"
Liz
from Tarrytown, NY
gave
on Nov 5, 2009
"I helped because I'm a strong believer in Visual Arts education."
A donor
gave
on Nov 5, 2009
daniel
from Texas
gave
on Nov 5, 2009
"Wow I am so lucky to have so many generous people supporting us! I can't tell you how much I appreciate your help. Without your donations we wouldn't be able to have a full creative visual art experience this year, so thank you so much!!!!!"
The teacher Ms. T.
on Nov 6, 2009
"I gave to this project because Ms. T is the best teacher ever, and I want her students to have amazing art supplies!!"
Sherri, Jason & Mack
from Connecticut
gave
on Nov 6, 2009
Sarah
from Wichita, KS
gave
on Nov 6, 2009
Melissa
from Brooklyn, NY
gave
on Nov 6, 2009
Kerry
gave
on Nov 6, 2009
Evelyn
gave
on Nov 6, 2009
Jon
from West Hollywood, CA
gave
on Nov 6, 2009
Nancy
gave
on Nov 6, 2009
Stacey
gave
on Nov 6, 2009
Becky
gave
on Nov 6, 2009
Jeffrey
gave
on Nov 6, 2009
MARIANNA
gave
on Nov 6, 2009
"I gave to these projects because I remember how much I loved and looked forward to art class and visiting the school library when I was a kid. I know art is always the first area to be cut in school budgets, so I wanted to help. "
Heather
from Los Angeles, CA
gave
on Nov 6, 2009
Project fully funded!
Happy news
on Nov 6, 2009
The teacher Ms. T.
on Nov 7, 2009
Purchased the resources for Ms. T.'s classroom and notified the school principal of delivery.
Jenni D. (staff member)
on Nov 9, 2009
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