Reading and literacy are a few of the core subjects the standardized test address in all areas of the country. A lot of children are coming to school in our area from low income homes where books are not a part of their homes, and reading is not valued due to low income or a lack of knowledge.
My students are from a public elementary school in rural West Tennessee.
Not only are we a poverty stricken area, jobs are also sparse in our town. Our school serves grades Pre-K through fourth with a student population of 868.
Most of my students are from single family homes with multiple siblings. Mom or Dad is trying their best just to provide their children with the basic necessities, and books to read at home falls at the bottom of most of the lists.
A lack of books at home is one of the reasons we have seen a decline in the number of students coming to our school system lacking the basic reading skills necessary to function and master grade level reading skills from kindergarten throughout their educational career.
My Project
A way to address these students with deficient reading skills is to give them extra reinforcements that are fun for them to do outside of the regular school day to help them gain skills not acquired or mastered. The use of games with visuals, audio stories, and hands-on activities allow the students to use all parts of the brain to solve problems and use their critical thinking skills.
I have requested a set of "Read Together Take-Home" backpacks to help our students in grades kindergarten through second master reading skills. I am very limited on the amount of money I receive each year because we are not allowed to collect a supply fee. I am given $100 to run my classroom for the year and this is nothing. I usually have to pay out of my pocket for the rewards and supplies I feel my students desire.
Whatever help you can give will be greatly appreciated!
My students are able to achieve great things, but they are at a great disadvantage of going to a school in an area of poverty. Education is something no one can take away from you, and can lead the path set for your life!
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