I teach a class of the sweetest first grade students. Many of these students come from low-income households, and incredibly diverse backgrounds. Some of them come from situations lacking a positive adult role model. Some of them come with the desperate need for something in their life that can give them some consistency. But there is one thing that each and every one of my students brings with them every morning when they walk through my door:
My students bring a sincere and loving heart with them each day to school.
No matter what is happening in their home, no matter how full their belly is, no matter how new or nice their clothes are, they bring a smile to my face as they hug me and say, "good morning" as they walk in the door. These students eyes truly sparkle with a love for learning and love for others. Their jaws drop when even a pinch of magic is thrown into the classroom. My students are a constant example to me of the beauty and strength in diversity. I may be their teacher, but I often feel as if I am the lucky one getting to learn from them.
My Project
Many of my students do not have access to age-appropriate books at home, and only have books read to them at school. I think the most meaningful 15 minutes of our day is spent sitting on the carpet after lunch, reading a story together. I would like to make that time even more meaningful by having a collection of read-alouds that will not only provide my class with an engaging story, but also teach them positive behavior and social skills.
As a first grade teacher, my job is much more than teaching reading and math; my children also need engaging lessons on how to manage their emotions, be kind, and recognize and respect differences in others.
Many of my students have not been taught these crucial life skills, and I believe a good book is the best way to model these behaviors and skills in a positive (and fun!) way, giving them meaningful characters and stories to relate to.
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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. Mckinnon and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
