Help me give my students a Marshie, a learning buddy that inspires creativity, builds confidence, and makes first grade unforgettable.
FULLY FUNDED! Mrs. Ureña's classroom raised $699
This project is fully funded
Celebrating Hispanic & Latinx Heritage Month
This project is a part of the Hispanic & Latinx Heritage Month celebration because
it supports a Latino teacher or a school where the majority of students are Latino.
My Project
Every year, I welcome a new group of bright-eyed, big-hearted first graders who are eager to learn, grow, and feel like they truly belong. I call them my Fabulous Firsties because that’s exactly what they are. In our classroom, learning is joyful, challenges are met with curiosity, and every child is seen, heard, and supported.
One of the most meaningful traditions in our classroom is introducing Marshie, our emotional support plush and beloved class companion.
Marshie is a small, blue plush inspired by the Pokémon Marshtomp—but in our room, he’s so much more than a toy. He was first introduced during distance learning in the heart of the COVID era, when I surprised each student with a plush friend to bring comfort and connection during uncertain times. Marshie quickly became part of our classroom identity.
For my students, Marshie represents comfort, encouragement, and belonging. He’s the buddy they read with when they need confidence, the friend who helps with math when they need focus, and the quiet support beside them when they just need a moment to reset. He helps my first graders self-regulate, feel safe, and stay motivated.
Now, I’m requesting 30 Marshie plushies so that each of my incoming 2025–2026 Fabulous Firsties can experience the magic of Marshie for themselves.
Students earn Marshie Dollars throughout the year by showing kindness, working hard, reaching goals, and making positive choices. Along the way, they practice math skills by counting, saving, and exchanging money, building real-world number sense. When they reach 100 Marshie Dollars, they earn the right to take their Marshie home. It’s a proud, joyful moment that celebrates growth, responsibility, and effort.
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
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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. Ureña and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
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