My students with special needs work so hard each and every day at embracing each others differences and sharing in their similarities. I have never met such an amazing group of students who yearn for the opportunity to learn new things with such enthusiasm. It would be so helpful if they each had a book.
My students are in a special needs, self-contained classroom setting in an inner city New York City school.
It is a high poverty neighborhood and at times quite unsafe. But nothing stops these 12 students from arriving everyday in uniform with a huge smile on their face. They are classified with emotional challenges, autism, and speech and language disabilities. It is a very diverse group, yet everyone comes together as we call ourselves our "school family". They are highly motivated by character building books and lessons as it helps them cope with their own struggles and teaches others how to accept. They are a magnificent group of students that would brighten anyone's day. It becomes difficult when you books or materials are not available for these amazing kids who need so much and are so eager. I appreciate any help at all!
My Project
The book Wonder by R.J. Palacio is such an uplifting novel that I just know will grab the attention of my class and so much reflection and writing will come out of it. The novel discusses family relationships, peer relationships, all around the struggles of a 5th grader entering school with a physical deformity. The novel also has great connections to Social Studies, Science, and art. In addition, it calls for further lessons around bullying and overcoming challenges in which my students face every day. I believe this novel will mean so much to my students and when we are all done with all the lessons surrounding it, they will never forget it and the lessons it taught!
It is so difficult for students with various special needs to flourish unless they feel accepted, understood, and a feeling of compassion in their surroundings.
It is hard enough living with the challenges they face, especially in school with the pressures of peers. This novel brings these challenges to life and you can see the beauty and strength in another child about the same age rise above the betrayal and bullying. I just know it would have a life changing impact on my students.
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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. Wynne and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.