I have the privilege this year of educating the minds of 28 first graders. Twenty-eight second graders who are eager to learn, excited about reading, mastering language arts, pumped about math, and so enthusiastic about the arts. However, they have come into second graders in the midst of horrible budget cuts, that provide a small milestone in achieving these goals.
This passionate group of second graders resides on the Southside of Chicago.
They have the privilege of learning in an environment that believes in personalized learning, flexible seating, and the power of technology. The students are of both African American and Hispanic descent with 99% of our students receiving free or reduced-priced lunch. However, they are learning that believing in themselves is all that matters.
My Project
I am very passionate about providing my students with every opportunity to be great and do great things. One thing that will help me accomplish this goal is exposing them to people who look like them in the positions of authority, in the arts, and in literacy.
American author, Adora Svitak states, "Any good teacher knows how important it is to connect with students and understand our culture." My goal is to provide my students with books that reflect their cultures, which in turn will build interest and engagement, and ultimately build a stronger sense of cultural pride.
It is very difficult to find books that represent the Hispanic and African American cultures within the curriculum. However, this project will help me to bridge that gap and impact the future of these budding readers.
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
DonorsChoose is the most trusted classroom funding site for teachers.
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. Watkins and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
