Help me give my students a diverse collection of books reflecting their own cultures, expanding their interests, and turning them into lifelong readers.
As you walk our halls, you see how our diverse school celebrates the beauty of differences while recognizing what holds us together. Photographs and artwork reflect the joy of connection and the creative spirit that unites us. The diverse cultures that come together in our school make each of us richer. When you come to my room on the English hall--first door to the right--you hear my students' energy as they read aloud, share their ideas, and learn together.
Each teenager in my room is working to find his or her place in a student body of 900 ninth graders.
They choose books based on their interests, their strengths, their cultures, and their questions. Many of them enjoy the safety and stability of school because their home lives are less comfortable. Here, they find validity and encouragement.
My students have big dreams. We've told them that they can change the world, and they believe us. I believe us. The compassion and intelligence I see in them encourages me to believe even more.
My Project
In my classroom, my students select books to read independently. The list of titles requested in this project such as Beloved, The Color of Water, and Cool Salsa will offer my African American and Hispanic students more choices that reflect their own cultures and interests. Books that offer students connection lead them into a new joy of reading and help them feel less alone in the world.
My teenagers will be inspired to read more when they read books about people that share their cultures and experiences.
Every student deserves to be represented in the enchanting world of literature. As my students find characters and plots that they can relate to, they will see a greater purpose in growing into lifelong readers!
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 Mrs. McDowell and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
