I teach 8th grade math/science in the 6th most economically disadvantaged middle school in the state.
Last year, no science classes went on any field trips. As a new science teacher in the building, I want to change that around and make science a positive and fun experience for all of my students. Most of my students have never explored the city we live in - let alone left the state! The experience I will take them on (with your support) will be educational and memorable.
I have already beg and pleaded with my principal for a field trip bus so my biggest obstacle has been taken care of. Since over 85% of my students come from a economically disadvantaged household, I don't feel right charging students a fee to come on the trip. I also have never taken students on a trip like this but during the summer, I had a chance to explore the Columbia River Gorge with an amazing group of geologists. The most exciting part of the trip was when we stopped at the river and smashed some rocks. The kid came out in me and I went wild! It was so interesting to see how time has changed the rocks and the history we learned by opening up a rock. Doing so requires special chipping hammers that I'm hoping you will fund. As my principal will tell you, most of the learners at my school are highly kinesthetic; the more they move, the better they learn. If we can get a hold of such tools, then they can chip their way into history instead of reading it out of a book (many of my students come from non-English speaking homes so reading is always a battle in science class anyways).
Your support of this project will give my students an 8th grade they won't forget. It's also a gift that will give forever because once we have the tools, there is no stopping me from going on this trip year after year. The students here face so many challenges in their everyday lives. With your generous donation, my hope is that they can let go from their crazy lives and live the life of a young scientist!. Thank you so much.
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