Help me give my students choices to get them excited about reading! My reluctant readers need books that reflect their own cultures and match their interests.
As you walk our halls, you see how our diverse school celebrates the beauty of differences while recognizing what holds us together. Photographs and artwork reflect the joy of connection and the creative spirit that unites us. The diverse cultures that come together in our school make each of us richer. When you visit our classrooms, you hear our students' energy as they read aloud, share their ideas, and learn together.
Each student in my school is working to find his or her place in a student body of 900 middle schoolers.
They choose books based on their interests, their strengths, their cultures, and their questions. Many of them enjoy the safety and stability of school because their home lives are less comfortable; over 70% of them live in poverty. At school, they find validity and encouragement...and books!
Our students have big dreams. We've told them that they can change the world, and they believe us. I believe us. The compassion and intelligence I see in them encourages me to believe even more.
My Project
I am requesting books that reflect my students' own cultures and match their interests. Books such as Julia Alvarez's ANTES DE SER LIBRES, R. J. Palacio's WONDER, and Laurie Halse Anderson's CHAINS will allow my students to read about characters who share their cultural and social heritages.
Because most of my students live in poverty, interesting, well-written books are a luxury.
I want to offer them many choices to build their enthusiasm for reading. I believe they will fall in love with reading as I did as a child when they have access to a wide variety of interesting, culturally relevant books. The love of reading will increase their chances of success both in school and for years to come.
Now more than ever, my students need empathy, confidence, and vision.
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. McDowell and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
