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
The first time I went to Silver Dollar City I was enchanted. It wasn't just the authentic dress, it was craftsmen and women who did things as they were done over a hundred years ago. I want to share this experience with my American History students. They deserve it! They are wonderful kids!
I teach in the inner city and many of my students have not had opportunities to travel and experience new places.
We are at a free and reduced lunch rate of 89 percent. I have the most wonderful history class of juniors you would ever want to meet. I look forward to teaching them and spending 5th hour with them. I love being their teacher. Right now we are learning about life in the 1800's in American History.
My Project
Besides the text book, besides the pictures, I could SHOW them what life was like. There is a place in Missouri that is set up to help people understand how once upon a time in America, we made things in this country and it was all done by hand. Candles, belts, furniture, jewelry, glass, lye soap, candy, quilts and so much more are all made by hand here by craftsmen who will show the kids how things were done made long ago. Demonstrations and all types of hands on activities for my students are at Silver Dollar City. We would get up early in the morning and travel on a bus for 4 hours to Silver Dollar City and spend the day, coming home that night. There we would explore the park and get a chance to learn and see what life was like over a 100 years ago. We would eat food cooked over an open fire and listen to music, watch glass being blown into cups and vases, taffy pulled, look at vats of lye soap and dip candles. Students would learn hands on!
Having this day back in time would mean so much to my students and help them understand history in a hands on way.
They would spend a wonderful day in rural Missouri and never forget what they saw and learned. You will make a difference in the lives and education of these inner city students. You will bring "History Alive".
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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 Teacher Ryder Duffey and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.