Starting on the Right Foot! Materials for Students
My students need lots of materials to start the year. Many of my students simply cannot afford materials. Binders, dividers, pencils, and composition books are a must!
This project is part of the Black History Month celebration because it supports a Black teacher or a school where the majority of the students are Black.
My Students
Think about your first day in middle school. You were scared, unsure, and generally intimidated. On top of that, you are asked to be "prepared" for class. Now imagine that you couldn't afford your school supplies. I aim to eliminate the worry, fear, and shame associated with not having materials.
My students are amazing!
I work at a charter school entirely for boys in West Philadelphia. My students come from all over the city, but have one thing in common: they all want an extraordinary education. My students are smart, powerful, and motivated. All of my students just want to be loved, validated, and respected. They also want to be empowered and given the tools they need to succeed. Last year, my students grew 1.25 years on average, surpassing their goals and what people "expected" of them. As I get better as a teacher, my students become better learners.
My Project
These materials cover the "basics" in my class. The biggest part of 6th grade is learning how to be organized, how to keep track of your materials, and how to set yourself up for success. I have a fairly intense binder-organization system, but it will all mean nothing if a student cannot afford or cannot find the materials he needs. By acquiring enough binders for about 25% of the kids, it should take care of the kids who don't have materials, and wash away the stigma of not having them. In addition, I go through pencils and dry erase markers like it is my job, as kids always need something to write with, either on paper or on my mini-white boards. All of these materials will allow my kids to start the year off on equal footing.
Without these materials, many of my students will not be equipped to succeed in my class.
The binders and composition books will be used every day, but will stay in the room. This eliminates the possibility of them getting lost, stolen, or broken. The kids will learn organization, be able to store important materials, and take pride in their learning space. If they are proud of their materials, they are more likely to be motivated to succeed.
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 Mr. McCarthy and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
