Help me give my students STEM activities, not only to draw more students into the library, but to offer them more creative ways they can flourish. I want the library to offer a world of possibilities to students.
I am the elementary librarian for grades 2-4. I serve around 385 students. L. Elementary is located on the Salish and Kootenai Native American Reservation. Poverty here is rampant. Around 54% of our student population qualify for the free and reduced lunch program. I adore all these children, but have an incredible soft spot for those children who are less fortunate and suffer from traumatic life experiences. I want to draw kids into the library. I do a fairly good job of it currently with many kiddos choosing to hang out in my library during the mornings and after school. Students at Linderman know that the library is a safe place that offers support, a hug from an adult and someone who will listen. Many students share with me their personal stories from situations they encounter at home to what they ate for breakfast. Getting kiddos into my library is of the utmost importance to me.
My Project
Setting up a STEM (creativity) station in the library will not only draw more students into the library during the morning and after school hours, but it will open up another world of possibilities for them. Not all students are good readers, some students need an opportunity to be kinesthetic and to explore with their hands. This in turn can lead them to want to learn more and that is where books and discussion can come in. I am hoping a STEM area draws more students into the library not only to connect with their creative side, but also their social side in building relationships, friendships and the ability to learn and grow both independently and with others.
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 Ms. Hovenkotter and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.