Do you remember reading that required novel in school? Did it inspire you to keep reading the rest of your life, or did it make you wish you never had another English class?
My students are driven and focused on their futures, but few see reading as a part of that future.
Take for example when we finished reading Their Eyes Were Watching God, by Zora Neale Hurston. Even though it overflows with rich description and authentic voice, they couldn't wait to put it down. They read it, but it did not inspire them to read more.
My Project
As a new Chapter Leader for Project Lit Community, I want to end my students' turning away from reading and turn them on to the world outside of our tiny community. In this world where we fear people we don't know, it's more important than ever to give my students a chance to read books that give them, as Dr. Rudine Sims Bishop would say, a window into the lives of others.
Life-long readers become informed citizens who give back to the world around them.
By reading books like Tradition and Speak, we open the door to discussing such topics as sexual assault. I am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter and The Poet X lead to discussions about finding your voice and dealing with depression. Books like Dread Nation and Children of Blood and Bone lead to discussions about oppression and standing up for what is right.
When students love reading, they are better prepared for life after school.
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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. Crawford and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
