I teach World Literature to seniors in a large public high school in a major city. They are low income and most do not read on grade level.
My students are African American and are reluctant learners. They are sick of reading works by white authors and having their middle class white teacher explaining the works to them. They would love an opportunity to read Push by Sapphire, and then explain the novel to me. They love explaining their culture to me -- this is a novel that will motivate them to read and discuss literature on a level they have not before. The subject matter foments discussion and debate.
We are currently exploring a unit about perception. We have talked about how one's experiences influence one's understanding of the world. We've been debating the question of society, and what responsibility society owes to its citizens. My students have enjoyed debating the topic. Push brings that question to a whole new level -- what does society owe the protagonist?
A class set of 30 copies of Push will enable each of my seniors to read this book. We will have to read together in class -- but that will be fine. It's a tough book full of difficult descriptions of one girl's life. Reading together will give us the chance to fully discuss what is going on, and allow us to reflect on the situations described.
My students need to get excited about reading. I know they want to read this book -- we've talked about it. I'm looking forward to fully engaged learners -- my students have passion. It is challenging to get that passion ignited. This novel will get the fire started.
Your help will enable my students to truly make connections with literature, and apply those connections to their greater world. I am regularly astonished and moved by the hand life has dealt most of my students. I had no idea how paralyzing poverty was before I began my teaching career. My students have a voice and deserve a chance to be heard. I want them to realize that they have options -- most of them do not believe this. Push presents a girl in the most dire of circumstances finding a way out. I want my students to internalize this possibility. Please help them find their way out.
More than three‑quarters of students from low‑income households
Data about students' economic need comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. Learn more
DonorsChoose is the most trusted classroom funding site for teachers.
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. Fujimoto and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.