Can you imagine growing up without a library, or even without being able to find a book that YOU could read all by yourself?
I have a class of 23 voracious readers.
Already, at five and six years old, they want to get out and read books all the time, sometimes right in the middle of another activity! I have even seen these kids pass up the opportunity to work on the computers, just to read a book.
My kindergarteners come from homes where their parents aren't always around; they may not even see them regularly. Despite this, they come in with good attitudes and a smile each day, ready to learn. They look forward to reading time, and while it is sometimes a challenge for them to focus, they know that they are "Rockstar Readers" and always try their very best. Their hard work and passion for being readers will likely have them reading at a first grade level by the end of the year.
My Project
The books that I am requesting for my class will allow them to be independent readers ALL the time, not just while they're learning to read. They will have access to these books before school, after they complete activities throughout the day, and during quiet reading time. Furthermore, these books will be available to checkout and take home for the night.
Having these books in our classroom will build the students' confidence because they will no longer be picking up books that they can't read. Likewise, being able to actually read the books will help them feel successful. The weakest reader will be able to feel just as accomplished as the strongest one.
Additionally, because students will be able to check these books out, we will be getting books into the homes of children that may not have a single book. It will help them learn that reading isn't just something you do at school.
In helping with this project, you are helping me show my kindergarteners how important reading is.
You're helping me put books into their hands and their homes that they can read all by themselves, and doing something "all by yourself" at five is a pretty big deal. You'll also be helping the kids become confident readers at this very important stage in learning to read. Getting them to love reading now will carry them through school and the rest of their lives. Help them be lifetime readers!
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. L. and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.