Diverse Books That Address Social-Emotional Learning

Funded Sep 9, 2021

Our school community is extremely thankful for the support we received in fulfilling our Donors Choose project: "Diverse Books that Address Social-Emotional Learning." I am very passionate about my students becoming more proficient and engaged readers. Reading is an extremely important part of our lives. Reading leads to enhanced knowledge, creativity and imagination, increased vocabulary, deeper analytical skills, and more. Our school does not have a large variety of books as we do not have a school library in our building. Yes, we have books that we use in our classrooms, and we have access to text online, but there is something so special about being able to choose your own book and holding that book in your hand. I did not just want to bring more books into our building, I wanted to make sure the books that were coming in represented our students and our community. I chose books where students could see someone that looks like them and that has had similar experiences. I chose books that I felt would be a way for students to improve empathy and help to develop skills to see the world through another's perspective. I chose books that helped them to question the world around them and become critical thinkers. Lastly, I chose books that would help students to manage their emotions and establish and maintain positive relationships.

When I first saw that people had given to my project, I was so excited. I really wasn't sure if it was going to be fully funded, but the donations rolled in and soon I was preparing for 42 new books to be delivered. As the boxes started to arrive one by one, the students who helped me unpack couldn't wait to see what was inside. Many have never even seen a brand-new book and do not have access to books at home. Watching them read the titles, hold them in their hands, and even smell them was heart-warming.

The books have been set up in my classroom to start, with hopes of soon setting up a school wide lending library in the future. For now, they are all available for teachers to use in their classrooms to support their curriculum and instruction. Students can come down and "check out" a book or two to have for their own independent pleasure reading. Since this project was funded and completed, I have been able to acquire additional books that complement the Donors Choose project. Our library of books that shows diversity and inclusivity as well as promoting self-awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision making continues to grow and it all started with this project thanks to donors like YOU!”

With gratitude,

Mrs. Fox