The children coming into my class each day are faced with traumatic experiences each and every day. All of the children are living in poverty and some have faced more horrifying experiences than I could ever imagine as an adult. Some of these experiences include hungry, a drug dependent adult living with them, absentee parents, lack of clothing/shoes, unable to bath daily, and the requirements of caring for younger sibling on a daily basis. Some children also face challenges of not speaking English and/or parents not speaking English. Most of my students are below reading level and struggle each day to catch up.
Regardless of their circumstances my children come to school each day, apply themselves, and encourage their peers to do the same.
They are polite and respectful, not just to me, their teacher, but their peers, other building staff, and community members. I am proud to say they are my babies and I know they will become amazing adults who positively affect the community.
My Project
My project this year is to bring my students up to grade level reading. Fluent reading will increase their ability to accomplish many different tasks in every subject area.
Students who can read can accomplish anything.
In order to stimulate each student's maximum growth as a reader, they will read Hatchet by Gary Paulsen, which is considered a 5th-8th grade reading level novel, as well Diary of a Wimpy Kid by Jeff Kinney. These options are chosen because they not only have the ability to enhance each child's reading ability but also are interesting, fun, and relevant which is a key to growing a child's interest in reading. As a teacher, I would like to provide as many books as possible that will engage students to read, stimulating their brains to grow. The children will use these books during independent reading, book reviews, and book reports.
My students will enjoy the diverse choices to chose a book that sparks their interest, making learning enjoyable.
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
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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. O'Neill and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
