As you walk our halls, you see how our diverse school celebrates the beauty of differences while recognizing what holds us together. Photographs and artwork reflect the joy of connection and the creative spirit that unites us. The diverse cultures that come together in our school make each of us richer. When you visit our classrooms, you hear our students' energy as they read aloud, share their ideas, and learn together.
Each student in my school is working to find his or her place in a student body of 1000 middle schoolers.
They choose books based on their interests, their strengths, their cultures, and their questions. Many of them enjoy the safety and stability of school because their home lives are less comfortable; over 70% of them live in poverty and almost HALF of them receive ESOL services. At school, they find validity and encouragement...and books!
Our students have big dreams. We've told them that they can change the world, and they believe us. I believe us. The compassion and intelligence I see in them encourages me to believe even more.
Reading is for everyone!
My Project
A love for reading is a gift that many of our ESOL students miss out on because we do not have enough books written in Spanish. They are immersed in English throughout their school day, and they learn their new language incredibly quickly! However, we want them to know that they can enjoy great stories in the language they are already comfortable in.
When students are given time to read books of their own choosing that are fully accessible to them, we show them that reading is for everyone and can be a wonderful, lifelong habit!
As they read, they build vocabulary, empathy, and vision.
Nearly all 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. McDowell and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
