Although I have always believed in the importance of creating a classroom where children of all cultures can come together to learn, I believe it is perhaps even more critical during this time in our history.
The quote above was chosen as the guiding light for our entire school this year and I am working to embed this spirit into my teaching practice.
My students (aka Skibo Scholars) are an energetic group of learners. They work very hard and because all students learn differently, we are lucky to have a team of support staff that is constantly striving to meet the individual needs of our students. That being said, I always feel that there are some students who are not getting everything they need. These are the ones that keep me up at night!
But every morning, my students and I participate in a morning circle. We share our thoughts, solve problems, celebrate successes, and practice empathy. I am constantly in awe of my students' capacity for compassion and understanding for one another. I am so blessed to be their teacher and learn from them. I am because they are.
My Project
My school experience was one of privilege. I arrived to school each day well fed and well rested. I had access to wonderful health care and my parents helped me maintain proper hygiene. When I got to my classroom, I would hang up my warm coat but I was always wrapped up in the love and care I received at home.
It is my firm belief that all students should receive an equitable opportunity to achieve their dreams.
But if the basic needs I mentioned above are absent in a students' life, it is almost impossible for them to be mentally present. Almost weekly, one of my students arrives Monday morning having eaten very little or very unhealthy all weekend. The protein bars will be used to help students get the healthy nutrition they need to feel good and focus. The Clorox wipes and hand sanitizer will serve as a first line of defense against chronic absenteeism due to student illness. Last but certainly not least, the water bottles. Not only does this encourage students to stay hydrated, but it also cuts down on out of class time.
These items will help to meet my students' basic needs but perhaps more importantly, they will offer them a sense of dignity.
ZORRI Best Sports Water Bottle- 1 L &800ml&600ml- Leak Proof BPA Free With Flip Top Lid&Filter&1-Click Open&Clean Brush&Time Making, Eco-Friendly Handy Drink Bottles for Outdoors/Running/Camping/Gym
• Amazon Business
$10.97
20
$219.40
CLIF KID ZBAR - Organic Energy Bar - Chocolate Chip - (1.27 Ounce Snack Bar, 18 Count)
• Amazon Business
$10.99
5
$54.95
Clif Kid ZBAR Filled - Organic Energy Bar - Apple Almond Butter (1.06 Ounce Snack Bar, 12 Count) (Packaging May Vary)
• Amazon Business
$9.55
5
$47.75
Clif Kid ZBAR Filled - Organic Energy Bar - Double Peanut Butter (1.06 Ounce Snack Bar, 12 Count) (Packaging May Vary)
• Amazon Business
$8.40
3
$25.20
Germ-X Hand Sanitizer, Aloe, Pump Bottle, 30 Fluid Ounce (Pack of 4)
• Amazon Business
$15.96
1
$15.96
Clorox Disinfecting Wipes Value Pack - Fresh Scent and Citrus Blend - 3 Canisters - 75 Wipes each
• Amazon Business
$10.64
1
$10.64
Materials cost
$373.90
Vendor shipping charges
FREE
Sales tax
$0.00
3rd party payment processing fee
$5.61
Fulfillment labor & materials
$30.00
Total project cost
$409.51
Suggested donation to help DonorsChoose reach more classrooms
$72.27
Total project goal
$481.78
How we calculate what's needed
Total project goal
$481.78
8 Donors
-$481.78
Donations toward project cost
-$409.51
Donations to help DonorsChoose reach more classrooms
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. Skibo and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
