Building a literate society is my number one goal. Although I teach science, I assign novels and require that my students write essays. As 9th graders, they find it difficult, but so many thank me after the class is complete.
I have an incredibly diverse group of students.
My students are 80% African American and Latin, and 20% Asian, white, and Native American. Many of them are first generation immigrants and are in the process of understanding the educational system and the English language.
Many of my students are below the poverty level, but they are all college bound and love to read. Since they attend a magnet school, most of my students ride a school bus for over an hour in order to get to school on the other side of town. They are always looking for new reading material and I want them to read more science-related literature. My hope is that they will envision themselves in science related fields in the future.
My Project
The novels "Mean Genes" and "Fast Food Nation" will help my students learn about genetics and nutrition/physiology while reading engaging and relevant books. Genetics is an important cutting edge topic in today's scientific world. An in-depth exposure to the topic will prepare my students for college.
The focus on nutrition and physiology in the book "Fast Food Nation" will support healthy eating habits and overall health. Since the cultures my students come from have a high disposition for hypertension, I hope that they will be able to help their families make conscious decisions about their health and avoid the disease. Your donation could inspire the next research scientist, doctor, or public health official.
My students are taking every opportunity to receive a quality education.
They travel across town in an uncomfortable bus everyday to come to school and their parents are very involved in the school even though they come from non-traditional families. They work hard but they still need lots of support. This project will help my students build their reading skills, engage in meaningful conversations around the science content, and encourage the pursuit of careers in the field of science.
More than three‑quarters 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
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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. Garcia and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.