Past projects 3
8th Grade Gradventure Trip
Funded Mar 27, 2018My students and I attended Universal Studios/Islands of Adventure. It was the first time many of my students had ever been out of their neighborhoods. Thank you so much for providing us with the transportation funds to make this trip happen. They truly did enjoy the experience. Even the 4 hour bus ride to our destination was amazing. Students were able to relax, interact, and feel free as we were making our way to the theme park. There were many students, who usually kept to themselves in school, interacting and having fun with their friends. It was a sight to see. That excitement and fun intensified when we arrived to our destination. The kids were allow to independently explore the theme park that offered many opportunities to experience scenes from their favorite fiction works. I couldn't tell you how many students continued to give thanks throughout the trip because they were so grateful for simply being there.
A main highlight for students were the attractions, but there was one highlight of the trip that really stood. That highlight for my students was when we entered through the gates of the theme park, and they realized that they would be able to explore independent of the teachers. They saw this as evidence that the adults did trust them to have fun and explore on their own. This was something that they were not used to at home and even sometimes in school.
After our trip, students were asked to write a narrative of their experience. This helped them understand the structure of a narrative writing as well as the importance of ensuring that their voice stands out in their writing. Of course, many students had very positive responses. Students were also advised to pick an attraction that presented one of their favorite fiction works. Many picked the Harry Potter ride. They loved how Universal Studios was able to create a life-like Hogwarts.
I thank you all so much for donating to my project. Thank you for helping me give my students something that I feel like I wouldn't have been able to do on my own. Thank you for helping me bless my students with an experience that they will never forget.”
With gratitude,
Ms. H.
This classroom project was brought to life by Ripple.Jumping Onto the Technological Train & Speeding Off to Enlightenment
Funded Dec 20, 2016Thank you so much for investing in the educational experience of my students! The new laptops and tablets have provided more of my students with access to technology--which they use excitedly as they research the world around them. Before the donation, my classroom only contained 8 computers. Two of those computers did not function properly because they were so old. Now that we have these new devices, we are able to engage more in projects. Recently, the students had to explore and gather up information about the wonder that is Machu Picchu. Before our project, they had never even heard of Machu Picchu. Having these resources facilitated the process of learning the unknown.
Within our class, I dedicate part of the time presenting new concepts and lessons to my students. During the rest of the class, the students work independently, using the newfound skills to engage in scholarly exploration. When we get to independent work, they enthusiastically ask me can they use the laptops and tablets. They love that they can work at their own desk without going across the school to use the antiquated computers! They love that they can be mobile while researching.
These donations have been essential in helping some of my students who have trouble working in groups. When they are asked to sit next to other students on the desktop computers, which are bunched together, it seems as if those students shut down. Now when I ask them to get on the computers, they happily choose the tablets and get to work.
I noticed a drastic change in my classroom environment since receiving these resources. Thank you so much for believing in my students and giving them the tools they need to reach their goals.”
With gratitude,
Ms. H.
Galloping Towards Success: Mustang Writers And Readers
Funded Oct 17, 2014My students had the opportunity to open the boxes that were filled with such wonderful material and resources that you funded. When they opened the boxes, they were overwhelmingly excited--especially for the new set of books (Bluford Series) that were donated. Some of my students were so surprised that I managed to get my hands on "such awesome books." Before we could get them all out of the boxes, numerous students were reserving their books for their personal reading time outside of school. Not only did they fawn over the books, but they were deeply grateful for the packets of paper that the class received.
Because of your gracious donations, my students were exposed to more student friendly forms of literature, like magazines. They were able to explore different social topics and subjects of their personal interests. We had issues of Time for Kids, which allowed us to explore a wonderful article that focused on the importance of Malala Yousafzai and her contribution to the discourse of women's rights in the world. Before exposure to that particular article, they had not heard about Malala, especially through a medium that was clear and student friendly. After that lesson, many of my students were inspired about their capabilities as students.
Some of the resources that our class received were paper, color pencils, and markers. Though this may seem small, it played a huge part in adding artistic and creative components to our lessons. There were no points during those lessons in which we had to stop because half of the class was without materials. Thanks to your contributions, every student was able to participate in such engaging and creative activities.
My class is forever grateful towards your decision to help improve our school experience.”
With gratitude,
Ms. H.