I am the Family School Services Coordinator at a neighborhood school of 400 preschool through 5th grade students in northeast Anchorage, Alaska. According to a study by a University of Alaska sociology professor, we are one of the most diverse elementary schools in the nation. Over one-third of our students speak a second language at home, and 20% of our students qualify for our district's Child in Transition program, which means they lack a permanent place to call home.
Many of our students come to school for more than an education.
For our students, school is the place they depend on for structure and support. We try to offer a wide variety of clubs and activities to our students who otherwise may not have the opportunity.
My Project
Our students are hoping to participate in the Anchorage School District's Battle of the Books. It is the responsibility of the school or students to provide the books. With a minimal budget, it is difficult for the library to provide the books needed and the majority of our families simply cannot afford this added expense. We are asking for just two copies of each of the required books so that our students can share the books and take turns reading them. The books range from classic Newbery award winners, to graphic novels to encourage each child to participate and realize a love of reading.
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