My students need 102 binders, 2000 sheet protectors, and 125 sets of dividers in order for 100 students to create professional portfolios divided into 10 sections.
FULLY FUNDED! Ms. Hoffman's classroom raised $902
This project is fully funded
My Students
What is it like to aspire to go to college but have no idea how to get there? My students, many of whom will be the first in their families to attend college, are relying on their public school to prepare them for their futures. It is both a privilege and a struggle to help them find their way.
My students are 8th graders at an inner city public middle school.
Every student receives a free breakfast and lunch. My students are African American, Caucasian, Puerto Rican, Dominican, Chinese, Bosnian, and Palestinian.
My students all have great potential, although many don't realize it. They have difficulty visualizing a bright future. In their short lives, they have experienced more than their share of struggle, disappointment, and loss. They have had to face some harsh realities, and as a result, they are hesitant to set goals and dream dreams. They need us to recognize their potential--and remind them of it daily!
After over 9 years of teaching this demographic, I am convinced that the middle school years are crucial, and I need your help to achieve my dream of lowering the dropout rate in my city! Developing portfolios will inspire my students to research careers, pursue job shadowing opportunities, request recommendations, strive for awards, and produce high quality work!
My Project
Professional portfolios are a practical way to help my students begin to envision and prepare for their futures. I would like all of my students to create portfolios that include the following components: resumes, report cards, standardized test scores, recommendations, awards, community service documentation, activities, and sample work. From my previous attempts with portfolios, I've found that students get excited about getting involved in school and community activities, often asking as their first question, "Can I put it in my portfolio?" The portfolios have also served as an organizational tool, helping them realize the importance of documents they will need to have handy and in good condition for applications to high schools, high school and job interviews, as well as college applications and interviews. Your help will enable ALL of my students to create professional portfolios that will serve them well for the rest of their lives and inspire them to reach their full potential!
Over the years, I've become increasingly convinced that the education of our country's youth must be a community effort.
Schools need YOU! Your donation sends a powerful message to my students. Your donation shouts, "We have not forgotten about you, urban youth of America. You have value and potential. You are not alone in your struggle for a future. We believe in you and want to help you reach your full potential! We need you to set goals and actively pursue them. Please do not give up!"
Nearly all students from low‑income households
Data about students' economic need comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. Learn more
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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. Hoffman and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.