"But Miss. H, I really just want to keep reading!" begged one of my bright eyed Kindergarteners. That was when it really hit home that I need to continue building this passion and provide each of my kinders with appropriate books to not only teach reading skills, but pique their interest.
Our full-day kindergarten class consists of a group of 20 diverse students.
There is a wide range of academic ability, with an amazing willingness to learn and take everything in. The students in my school come from a low-income area of the district, and many unfortunately have not been exposed to any learning experiences until attending Kindergarten. But not to worry! We provide a stimulating and welcoming environment to foster learning and really ingrain the necessary basic skills to become a successful student. As a first year teacher I have a wealth of passion, but a lack of materials. With the district being on a budget freeze I have been unable to get several learning materials to supplement my teaching.
My Project
Have you ever read an article or story that was way above your head? Several of the books that I currently have provide almost that same experience. A leveled library will provide my Kindergarteners with access to books that will enhance skills at their own level and even boost confidence. At this point in the year we have been using familiar children's picture books to teach print concepts and and basic reading skills. Many students are finally ready to combine their knowledge of letters and use of pictures to move into beginning level books with few words. I currently have very few books that can be read at the Kindergarten level. With a leveled library, students will be able to select their own stories that they can independently read during our Reader's Workshop time, as well as free reading time. At this point many students can recognize a few words, but how great would it be if they could read a whole story?
There is the expectation that every Kindergartener should be reading independently by the end of the school year.
This becomes a challenge with a lack of resources. I want to provide each child with literary options that will build in complexity as their abilities increase. A leveled library gives each student the options to fit their personal interests, while providing a reading experience that will make them feel confident with their own abilities.
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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. Harrison and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.