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Mrs. Medalen’s Classroom Edit display name

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Every morning before school, my classroom is transformed into a Books & Braids hair salon. Students make an appointment. When they come to their appointment I braid and/or comb their hair while they read to me; helping them get a good start to their day so they can focus on learning. This special 1:1 time helps build relationships with students while improving literacy and self-esteem. Books & Braids offers students a non-threatening environment in which to read. At Books & Braids, there is no timer and no pressure. I am their stylist, simply listening to them read. Books & Braids started one day when I was reading with a girl and her hair was in her eyes making it hard for her to read. It just came to me, I should set up a 'salon' before school starts and kids can read to me in a non-threatening environment while I braid or simply comb their hair. They walk away with some reading practice, a new comb and hair accessory, and a boost to their self esteem and confidence. Many of my students have never been to a hair salon so this experience gives them that chance plus some special 1:1 time with a caring adult! When students come to the salon they get to chose a comb, hair tie(s), a headband, bow, or barrette to keep. Many of the students don't have their own comb or hair accessories for self care; this is a really big deal to the students and it empowers them. Some combs and hair accessories have been donated but I have purchased a lot myself and will continue to do so because of the impact this program has on kids. Having Donors Choose involved in purchasing the needed items would help.

About my class

Every morning before school, my classroom is transformed into a Books & Braids hair salon. Students make an appointment. When they come to their appointment I braid and/or comb their hair while they read to me; helping them get a good start to their day so they can focus on learning. This special 1:1 time helps build relationships with students while improving literacy and self-esteem. Books & Braids offers students a non-threatening environment in which to read. At Books & Braids, there is no timer and no pressure. I am their stylist, simply listening to them read. Books & Braids started one day when I was reading with a girl and her hair was in her eyes making it hard for her to read. It just came to me, I should set up a 'salon' before school starts and kids can read to me in a non-threatening environment while I braid or simply comb their hair. They walk away with some reading practice, a new comb and hair accessory, and a boost to their self esteem and confidence. Many of my students have never been to a hair salon so this experience gives them that chance plus some special 1:1 time with a caring adult! When students come to the salon they get to chose a comb, hair tie(s), a headband, bow, or barrette to keep. Many of the students don't have their own comb or hair accessories for self care; this is a really big deal to the students and it empowers them. Some combs and hair accessories have been donated but I have purchased a lot myself and will continue to do so because of the impact this program has on kids. Having Donors Choose involved in purchasing the needed items would help.

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About my class

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