My school is a true melting pot of cultures, economic statuses, homes, and families. This school is considered high poverty; over 60% of our students are economically disadvantaged, and our school has now qualified for free lunch and breakfast for our students. We have over 10 different cultural backgrounds in our classroom with such diversity as Alaska Native, Samoan, Russian, and American Indian. Recently while studying Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., my students answered the question "What do you think Dr. King would say about our classroom?"
One answered, "He would say that our class is his dream come true." Which is exactly right.
We are such a wonderful mix of persons.
My Project
Every year the Alaska State Library Association picks books for the students to have a literary competition. These books consist of both classic and new books for the students. The students learn about the author and title. They have to answer some amazingly hard questions about the books.
This competition has many reluctant readers devouring books.
Students earn bragging rights for finishing the books as well as competing in our school and district battles. Having multiple copies of the books allow my students to read and reread the books to prepare for competition.
More than half 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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