Classroom Library

Celebrating Hispanic & Latinx Heritage Month

This project is a part of the Hispanic & Latinx Heritage Month celebration because it supports a Latino teacher or a school where the majority of students are Latino.

I teach English III (American Literature) at an inner-city alternative high school that does not even have a library. I would estimate 90% of my students have not read a book since elementary school if then. Many of them excitedly proclaim after finishing a book "That is the first book I have ever read!”. As an educator, I understand that reading fluency is essential for a child to be able to function in all their different disciplines and to be able to do well on any test. For that reason and because I am dedicated to helping my students become lifelong learners, thus lifelong readers, I began to buy a few books every pay check at used book stores. Many of the books I have purchased are tattered and several of the favorites get stolen on a regular basis (putting me on a search for that book for the irate students who are in the middle of reading the stolen book). I do have to buy what is offered at the used book stores, so would like to purchase where I can select books that I know they would love. I would like to purchase paper back high interest books for my students to read. We read everyday for twenty minutes and then they write in their journal about the book. Some of my “stolen” books are floating openly around the school which excites me to think I have instigated reading school-wide, and I find it humorous that they unashamedly are reading a “stolen” book. Possibly the thought of being a reader overrides their question about where the book comes from. Maybe the person who took the book just assumes I want it read however and whenever; which I do! It is also exciting to have students who are reading or have read the same book begin to share their thoughts on the book, again developing the love for reading. As a single woman on a teacher's salary, I have found myself spending way more than I can really afford for these books, so to find a resource to help me, thrills me! I hope my proposal is funded so I can continue to put enjoyable books in the hands of my students.