My students need a computer to use the many online interventions for reading and math that I cannot access without a classroom computer! This is a HUGE investment!
This project is part of the Black History Month celebration because it supports a Black teacher or a school where the majority of the students are Black.
My Students
A typical day consists of guided reading centers in the morning where I individualize lessons for students on varying levels. Our special education resources are limited and I would really love to access some reading interventions online for some of my low learners.
My children are AMAZING!
I work in a Philadelphia neighborhood across from a housing project, but around the corner from million dollar homes. The student body is diverse, but respect and love are present. The majority of my students are from households that are considered low-income and most have hardworking parents who want to see their children succeed. Some of my students are children of illiterate mothers and some may be the first to graduate from high school while others have lawyers and architects as parents. Some of my students have lunch as their only meal of the day, some have beautifully homemade lunches with already full bellies from breakfast. Some of my students have no one at home to help them with homework, while others complete extra projects at home for fun. My school is an ever changing and growing safe haven. The halls are quiet and beautifully decorated with student projects. My students are respectful and excited about learning!
My Project
Specifically, I would like to use the computer for reading interventions. My first grade students' reading levels vary from a student who is reading at the 4th grade reading level to two students who still cannot identify all letters. I use guided reading as a way to interact with all students at their instructional level. I would like to use the computer during this period for my lowest level learners to access online reading interventions. Aside from the major use, the class only has a 45 minute computer period during the week. They otherwise do not get to use technology aside from our use of the Promethean board that we do have in the class. With a world so reliant on technology, I feel it is important for the children to have access to a computer. Most do not have a computer at home. I would use the computer for them to research information/pictures for topics we are learning about, especially in social studies.
This computer will directly result in helping students learn how to read.
Research shows that we need to teach children how to read before 3rd grade or they have a 75% chance of dropping out in 9th grade. These are our most vulnerable learners. My favorite quote is "Life's most persistent and urgent question is: 'What are you doing for others?'" -MLK. Whenever I think about my lowest learners I constantly think about this quote. It is urgent that I help them. Please do too!
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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. Bertotto and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
