Albert Einstein quotes, "The only thing that interferes with my learning is my education." Thus, my goal is to provide my students from low-income African-American and Latino families with resources that will challenge their growth mindset both academically and creatively. Social ills such as high crime rates, illiteracy and unemployment may plague their community; however, it does not deter how my students learn when provided with resources and experiences that connect critical contexts with the arts which allows them to take on the role of an engineer-giving students the unique opportunities to learn, build, design, problem-solve and create innovative ideas!
In spite of the negativity that surrounds my students and is relived through the daily reporting in the news media, my students are inquisitive, hopeful and eager to come to school- their safe haven.
They are middle schoolers who received special education services with reading and math skills four years or more below grade level, yet they are able to grasp concepts through a combination of visual stimuli and usage of hands-on materials. They have individualized education plans to address needs that impede their learning such as Attention-Deficit-Disorder, Dyslexia and Autism and tend to respond to interactive, arts-infused, project-based learning.
My Project
Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs suggests that a person is not able to function without having their basic needs met, which includes sleep, shelter and food. Many of my students' families are unable to provide nutritious meals for their children and some students come to school hungry. Unable to focus on learning, some try to save food to stay full throughout the night - unable to sleep through the night. While the school provides breakfast and lunch, it is often not enough to fill the stomachs of middle-school students throughout the day. Thus far, I have supplemented students with healthy snacks out of my pocket.
As an adult, I am able to realize when I am lethargic and in need of food to build up my energy.
However, some students suffer in silence or do not realize that healthy food equates to "brain power". I have witnessed students bring unhealthy chips, pop and sugary snacks in the form of breakfast, which is upsetting to their digestion, mood and ability to focus.
I am beyond grateful to see that donors are willing to prevent hunger in our classrooms and supply students with healthy snacks. My cart lists some of the items I have purchased for my students and they are eager to consume. I've also added three books: The Care and Keeping of You: The Body Book for Younger Girls, The Care and Keeping of You 2: The Body Book for Older Girls and The Boy's Body Guide: A Health and Hygiene Book to teach my students about nutrition and how food affects their bodies and brains as well. Thank you in advance for each donor that brings this project to fruition!
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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