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"I teach second grade at a public, charter elementary school in California where our motto is "College? Claro!" (or "College? Of Course!"). This motto is one aspect of an all-encompassing school culture we call "College for Certain." Many of our students -- of whom 100 percent are students of color, ...
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"I teach second grade at a public, charter elementary school in California where our motto is "College? Claro!" (or "College? Of Course!"). This motto is one aspect of an all-encompassing school culture we call "College for Certain." Many of our students -- of whom 100 percent are students of color, 78 percent are English Learners, and 93 percent receive free or reduced lunch -- would not otherwise envision higher education as part of their futures. Readying them for middle school, high school, and eventually college requires a rigorous academic program integrating reading, writing, math, science, social studies, physical education, and the arts.
Many of my students are struggling readers. Some lack sufficient vocabulary to understand and retell stories at their grade level. Others are struggling to master story structure. Two have reading disabilities which make it difficult for them to access visual information. Still others struggle to stay engaged in reading. All need multi-sensory, interactive, and entertaining ways to engage with literature. My students love any activity that brings books to life. A puppet theater with a collection of diverse puppets will enable them to engage with literature in stimulating, interactive ways. In partners, they will dramatize the stories we have read in class. They will gain practice describing characters and settings, using relevant vocabulary, sequencing important events, and reflecting on story themes. Importantly, they will rely on printed text to inspire their puppet shows, thus developing their skill with the printed word while seeing it as a doorway to having fun. Students who are aural, kinesthetic, and interpersonal learners will benefit from the opportunity to interact with text using more than just visual cues. The puppet theater will empower my students to access their creativity and practice academic language as they present their shows to others. Your support will make it possible for all of my students -- and especially my struggling readers -- to both experience the joys of reading and develop essential skills. Most importantly, from their perspective, you will make it possible for them to "play pretend" to their hearts' content! My students need 1 table top puppet theater and 3 sets of diverse people puppets.
The cost of this proposal is $257, which includes shipping for any materials requested and fulfillment Live Updates
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