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This teacher needs your help!

Ms. Wells from Merrillville, IN is requesting books through DonorsChoose, the most trusted classroom funding site for teachers.

See what Ms. Wells is requesting

Stories of Self

Help me give my students a diverse collection of high-interest books that reflect their identities and inspire courage, confidence, and a love for reading.

  • $625 goal

This project expired on August 7, 2025.

This project expired on August 7, 2025.

My Project

I’m lucky to teach a vibrant group of fifth graders who are creative, thoughtful, and full of potential. They come to class with a wide range of reading levels, interests, and life experiences, and each of them is on their own journey of discovering who they are. What I love most about my students is their openness—whether it's exploring new ideas, supporting each other, or learning through stories, they show up each day ready to grow.

This project will bring high-interest, inclusive books into our classroom—books that reflect diverse voices, encourage empathy, and celebrate courage and identity.

From graphic novels and fantasy adventures to realistic fiction and powerful biographies, these resources will help every student find a story that speaks to them. With the right books in their hands, my students won’t just become stronger readers—they’ll become more confident, compassionate, and connected to the world around them.

Ms. Wells Merrillville Intermediate School Grades 3-5

Celebrate Black teachers and kids! This project supports a Black teacher or a school where the majority of students are Black.

Equity Focus

This project directly supports students at a historically underfunded school. Learn more about our Equity Focus.

This project will directly impact historically underfunded classrooms.

Merrillville, IN View local requests

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

50 students impacted

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You donate directly to the teacher or project you care about and see where every dollar you give goes.

Expand the "Where your donation goes" section below to see exactly what Ms. Wells is requesting.

See our finances

TEACHERS, FEELING INSPIRED?

You can start a project with the same resources being requested here!

Where Your Donation Goes

Materials Cost Quantity Total
5 Book Set: Graphic Novels #2 - Underrepresented Authors (paperback, ages 8-12) - Break, Amelia Aierwood: Basic Witch, Four Eyes, Invisible, Duel • DonorsChoose Featured Favorites $80.00 1 $80.00
4 Book Set: Graphic Novels #4 - Underrepresented Stories Social Emotional Learning (paperback 10+) Snapdragon, El Deafo, Space Boy 1-3, Parachute Kids • DonorsChoose Featured Favorites $62.00 1 $62.00
Trials of Apollo, The 5Book Hardcover Boxed Set • Amazon Business $57.99 1 $57.99
Front Desk Series 3 Books Collection Set By Kelly Yang (Front Desk, Three Keys, Key Player) • Amazon Business $48.49 1 $48.49
3 Book Set: Graphic Novels - Jerry Craft Author Study: New Kid, Class Act, School Trip (paperback) x Black Books Matter from MahoganyBooks • DonorsChoose Featured Favorites $42.00 1 $42.00
Katherine Applegate 3 Books Collection Set (Crenshaw, The One and Only Ivan, The One and Only Bob) • Amazon Business $33.99 1 $33.99
White Bird (paperback graphic novel) • DonorsChoose Featured Favorites $16.00 2 $32.00
Jake Maddox Graphic Novels Boxed Set 1: Comeback Catcher, Daydream Receiver, Home Ice Rivals, Soccer Superstar • Amazon Business $28.00 1 $28.00
Victoria Jamieson Box Set • Amazon Business $21.17 1 $21.17
Thirst (hardcover) • DonorsChoose Featured Favorites $20.00 1 $20.00
Wonder (hardcover) • DonorsChoose Featured Favorites $16.00 1 $16.00
Punching Bag • Amazon Business $9.95 1 $9.95
School Trip: A Graphic Novel (The New Kid) • Amazon Business $9.78 1 $9.78
Four Eyes - Pizza Face 2 - Paperback Book • AKJ Education $9.48 1 $9.48
The Miscalculations of Lightning Girl • Amazon Business $7.99 1 $7.99
Because of Mr. Terupt • Amazon Business $7.19 1 $7.19
Blended • Amazon Business $7.07 1 $7.07

Materials cost

$493.10

Vendor shipping charges

FREE

Sales tax

$0.00

3rd party payment processing fee

$7.40

Fulfillment labor & materials

$30.00

Total project cost

$530.50

Suggested donation to help DonorsChoose reach more classrooms

$93.62

Total project goal

$624.12

Our team works hard to negotiate the best pricing and selections available.

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Project Activity

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