This project is a part of the Hispanic & Latinx Heritage Month celebration because
it supports a Latino teacher or a school where the majority of students are Latino.
My Students
I teach music at a public elementary school in the heart of mid-town Manhattan in Hell's Kitchen. My students represent over 35 different nations from around the world. Some are learning to speak English for the first time, and others are joining our community from temporary housing shelters. Some are seeking refuge from natural disasters in other parts of the world, while others perform in musical theater shows on Broadway. Our marvelous students are a diverse bunch of children who are learning to share both their passions and struggles with their fellow students and teachers. We celebrate our differences together as we learn to be proud and confidant in our unique skin.
My school prides itself on encouraging children to express themselves- their hopes, fears, and dreams- through music, dance, and visual art.
Our students live for the arts. They walk in the door singing songs they've made up and eagerly share drawings they've created at home. The performing arts have been the glue that brings our kids together and has leveled the playing field allowing all children from all walks of life to play successfully on the same team.
My Project
This year all of our students in PreK-5th grade are engaging in live weekly music and movement classes on zoom. We are working hard to continue building strength and diversity in our community through the arts even over distance learning. We are singing, dancing, playing found sound instruments, learning about traditions from around the world, and much more. Singing and making music together helps us feel connected to one another and brings us so much joy while we are apart. In this difficult time, it is more important than ever to give our students an outlet to explore their emotions, their wonderings, and their talents. Without a functioning laptop, this connection becomes nearly impossible. Please help me get a new laptop capable of running all my weekly classes so that I can make this year meaningful to my students.
More than half of 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
DonorsChoose is the most trusted classroom funding site for teachers.
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. Traxler and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
