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 have a wonderful job. I am a middle school teacher librarian. Every day I get to talk books with eager middle schoolers who really do want to read. The school has a negative reputation due to the violent neighborhood yet the students are friendly and pack the library each day wanting to read more.
This summer our local paper published a piece about my school.
The article described the dangers, the problems and the violence of the neighborhood and school. The school is located in a neighborhood in a large urban city that has seen its share of violence yet the school is a refuge for children. The students meditate twice a day, can play golf, bird watch and can go backpacking.
I try each and every day to create a safe place for all students to come to read and hang out. The library is a place for ALL students. Many parents are scared to send their children to the school and then are surprised when they come and visit and see a caring and loving educational center. I am especially proud when they come by the library and see many young people reading and discussing books,---and not just playing Minecraft on the computer!
My Project
The students DEMAND book clubs. They want to read books and read books with their friends. Last year the library hosted two book clubs and they were extremely popular. Students loved discussing the books. I set up a tea with a tea set and we served cookies. Students were excited to be seen as readers.
My students need multiple copies 13 different high interest and diverse books for school book clubs. The books I am requesting are diverse in its subject matter and characters. The students want to read and talk about books with relatable characters and stories. I am also starting a graphic novel book club because graphic novels are extremely popular. One of the books is by a famous local author and it features the first Asian super-hero! Through book clubs, students see themselves as readers. This will help create a culture of reading at the school.
I can remember books that changed my life.
When I was a middle schooler, I can remember the isolation, change and uncertainty. Reading a book made me feel less alone or strange. A good book can change a young person's life. Hopefully students can make new friends and connections by discussing the books which can also be life changing for a young person.
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. Taylor and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
