My students need books that challenge them. These books will encourage the to make mistakes - and learn from them. They need to hear stories about people who persevered and made a difference!
I teach in a college town with a VERY wide array of kiddos. 8 of my 24 kids have special needs which requires an individualized learning plan. 7 of my students are still learning English and there are 6 different languages spoken in my classroom. I co-teach with a special education teacher so that my students with disabilities do not have to be separated from their peers.
We celebrate diversity and embrace our different heritages, cultures and learning styles.
We respect each other and help each other reach our full potential. We all learn together and we learn from each other. We strive to have a growth mindset and appreciate our failures and learn from them, rather than be embarrassed by them.
I am always searching for ways to give my students the best possible educational experience. I look for diverse books that reflect my diverse kids. I look for STEM projects and supplies to prepare them for their 21st century futures. Join me in creating a classroom that inspires my kids to love learning.
My Project
One of my favorite things to do as a teacher, is read to my kids. They sit on the floor in front of my rocking chair and, for 20 minutes, they can all learn together. Most of the day, I differentiate my teaching to meet the needs of each individual learner. But, during those precious 20 minutes, I can reach everyone at the same time.
The stories I read to my students teach them more than just literacy - it teaches them how to be kind, brave, strong and resilient.
I choose books that teach growth mindset - the research proven idea that you are not born with a set level of "smartness". You can grow your brain by choosing hard tasks and perseverance. I choose books that introduce kids to people who have faced adversity and overcome them in order to make a difference in the world.
With your help, I can teach my children to love the magic of reading. Not only that, but you will help me inspire my kids to try new things - challenging things. They will learn the power of YET! You can help me introduce them to inspiring people of history and give them the courage to stand up for what they believe in.
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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 Mrs. Smith and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
