What other profession do you know where professionals have to use their own money to do their job properly? My students can't afford to bring their own supplies. I am given a budget, but it is quickly is spent before the 1st month. After that, I spend up to $300 to replenish just the basics.
My students come from a variety of situations.
Most are families struggling to live day to day. 98% of the students at my school are on free or reduced lunch. Being a Title I school, we do receive the best in instructional materials and technology. We as a school are rich in resources, but what good is all these resources if there is no paper to write on, no art supplies to create the projects, no copy paper to copy organizers and support materials, or even a pencil to complete the needed practice for homework? Title I money cannot be used for supplies. We get some community support, but is not nearly enough to supply all the classrooms. They get excited to use class money to buy a special pencil or cool eraser that I buy as rewards because they don't have any of their own. I have some that say, "Mrs. Benoche, I am going to try to bring in something." When they do, I don't have the heart to take the one or two markers they brought to "share with the class."
My Project
The materials I am requesting are just basic items like copy paper, pencils, dry erase, markers, colored pencils, notebook paper, and construction paper. I will be able to copy needed assignments, certificates, letters to parents with the copy paper provided. The markers, colored pencils, and construction paper will allow us to make projects that would enhance and support our curriculum. The dry erase markers will allow the kids to practice a concept at their desk and share with the whole class and participate in lessons. Finally, the notebook paper and pencils are an everyday staple that will allow students to venture in new worlds, express their opinion, show their intelligence in math, and practice a needed concept at home.
This would make a tremendous difference in my classroom.
Instead of purchasing just basic supplies, I can spend my money on items that reward my students for their achievements. It will also give me needed financial relief. As much as I love giving to my class, I do have limits and must also think of my own children. They too, attend school and they too, have needs in their classroom. Teachers support teachers and I am inclined to give when their teacher requests items.
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As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. This classroom request for funding was created by Mrs. B. and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.