I work at a Title I middle school teaching 8th grade ELA and ELD. My students are academically, culturally, and emotionally diverse. A majority of my students are English learners and/or refugees from all over the world. Due to gaps in schooling, learning challenges, trauma, or issues they face outside of school, many of my students struggle academically. Their stories of resilience and their drive to learn are inspirational.
In my classroom I try to create a calm and encouraging environment by hearing their struggles, celebrating their successes, and guiding them through challenges.
My students strive to be successful regardless of the obstacles they have to overcome. They are hilarious and insightful young people who have a bright future ahead of them.
My Project
Our school downsized the school library. The hours open are shorter and the material available is limited. Many of my students are reading at low Lexile levels and have a lack of confidence in their reading abilities. As a new teacher, I have limited books available for my students. I want to create a love of reading in my students, yet I do not have many high-interest books to entice my reluctant readers to independently pick up a book. As an ELA/ELD teacher, I feel a need to provide my students with reading materials they can relate to.
I want to add high-interest, culturally and developmentally relevant books to my classroom library.
When surveying my students, graphic novels and scary stories were the top picks. With many of my students reading below grade level, graphic novels provide developmentally appropriate stories without overwhelming struggling readers. With your support, I hope to continue building a culture of reading in my classroom, as well as building student literacy!
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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 Ms. Baddour and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
