Past projects 8
Building Thinking Math Classrooms
Funded Nov 13, 2024Thank you so much for your generosity and support! When my students first saw the new materials, their faces lit up with excitement. They immediately started exploring, asking questions, and sharing their ideas with one another. It was a joy to see their enthusiasm and curiosity come to life.
One of the first ways we used the resources was during small group instruction. The manipulatives and visuals have made complex concepts so much more accessible, especially for my English learners. I recently watched a student, who typically struggles with math, confidently explain a concept to their partner using one of the new tools—it was a powerful moment!
As we move forward, my students will continue using these materials to strengthen their skills and deepen their understanding. Whether it's hands-on learning in math, vocabulary development in ELA, or critical thinking discussions, your support has made a meaningful difference.
Thank you for believing in my students and helping to create a classroom where learning is engaging, fun, and accessible for everyone!”
With gratitude,
Mr. Castrejon
This classroom project was brought to life by Young Sheldon and one other donor.ELD Support
Funded Oct 15, 2024I thank you for your support in carrying out my ELD project. I cannot wait to share with my students the good news that they will be receiving new headphones to help them during their iReady and ELPAC prep time. Also, I can now use my iPad to further enhance instruction. We are forever grateful and thank you once again.”
With gratitude,
Mr. Castrejon
Room Decor & Class Printer
Funded Aug 7, 2024I'm excited to share how the Room Decor and Class Printer project has transformed our classroom! The decor has brought a vibrant and welcoming energy, especially during Hispanic Heritage Month, where many of the items I received played a big role in celebrating and honoring the culture. The bulletin boards have become beautiful focal points, thanks to the ability to print materials in color using the new class printer.
My students' reactions to the new room decor were incredible—they absolutely love the posters, especially the Nipsey Hussle poster. It's been heartwarming to see how much they appreciate seeing themselves represented in the classroom environment. The decor has made the space feel more inclusive and comfortable for them, and it's also sparked conversations about identity and culture.
One specific moment that stood out was when a group of students gathered around a bulletin board discussing the vibrant images and texts from Hispanic Heritage Month. The decor has not only brightened the room but also created meaningful learning moments.
As we continue forward, I plan to use the printer and decor to enhance other cultural celebrations and classroom projects, helping my students see themselves in every aspect of their learning environment.
Thank you for helping make our classroom a place where students feel represented, inspired, and proud!”
With gratitude,
Mr. Castrejon
6th Grade Math Fun
Funded Aug 2, 2023I am excited to share how the 6th-Grade Math Fun project has made a significant impact on my students' learning experience! Thanks to your generous support, I've been able to incorporate math manipulatives and books into my lessons, which have greatly enhanced my students' understanding of key concepts.
During small group instruction, I introduced the new manipulatives, and my students were thrilled. They eagerly engaged with the hands-on materials, and I could see their understanding of complex topics deepening in real time. One specific moment was during a lesson on fractions—the manipulatives helped them visualize the problems, leading to more "aha!" moments than ever before.
The books you helped fund have been equally transformative. They have provided a more conceptual approach to the material we cover each week, allowing me to present ideas in new ways that resonate with my students. Their excitement over these resources is palpable—they love using them to reinforce the week's lessons.
Moving forward, we'll be using these resources to explore upcoming units on geometry and algebra. The manipulatives and books will play a critical role in supporting my students as we tackle these new challenges.
Thank you for giving my students the tools to succeed and making math a fun and engaging subject for them!”
With gratitude,
Mr. Castrejon
This classroom project was brought to life by The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and 9 other donors.Math Growth Passion - 6th Grade
Funded Jun 14, 2024I'm excited to share how your generous contribution to the Math Growth Passion project has made a meaningful difference in my classroom. With the TPT gift cards, I was able to purchase materials that have not only made teaching math easier but also enhanced my students' learning experience.
When the new resources arrived, my students were instantly engaged. They were thrilled to use the materials and quickly dove into their math lessons with renewed excitement. The interactive and well-structured resources have made a huge impact on their ability to understand and retain key math concepts. One particular moment that stood out was during a fractions lesson—the students were so enthusiastic about the hands-on activities that they even asked to continue working on them during free time!
These materials have also helped me facilitate better note-taking skills. Students are now more organized and confident in documenting their learning process, which has translated into improved comprehension and performance.
As we move forward, we're focusing on applying these materials to more challenging concepts in math. Our next steps involve tackling multi-step word problems and incorporating the resources into group projects that will deepen their understanding and collaboration skills.
Thank you for your invaluable support. You've truly helped create a classroom environment where math is not only accessible but enjoyable for my students!”
With gratitude,
Mr. Castrejon
Reading Fun
Funded Jun 29, 2023I am thrilled to share the incredible impact that your generosity has had on my students through the fully funded Reading Fun project! The reading nook has transformed our classroom into an inviting and engaging space where learning truly comes to life.
My students immediately gravitated toward the nook when it was first set up, and their reactions were priceless. They were excited and curious, exploring the new cozy area. The nook has become a favorite spot for silent reading, small group discussions, and even warm-up activities at the beginning of the day. It's not just a place for academics—it's where students love to spend their recess and lunch breaks, curling up with a good book or just relaxing. They truly appreciate having a special space just for them.
One specific moment that stood out was during a recent small group reading session. Students gathered around, engaged in a lively discussion about a story, feeling comfortable and eager to participate. This environment has boosted their confidence and motivation to read.
Next, we'll be using the nook for upcoming book clubs and independent reading challenges. It's clear that the reading nook has sparked a renewed love for reading, and we are excited to continue using this space for many more literacy-building activities.
Thank you for giving my students a place to learn, grow, and enjoy the magic of reading!”
With gratitude,
Mr. Castrejon
This classroom project was brought to life by Nanar and Tony Yoseloff and 2 other donors.6th Grade Math Learning Community
Funded Jun 14, 2024Thanks for your kindness and generosity. All the materials on my list are much needed and will be utilized to help strengthen the much needed math skills of my students. Your help will reach many students, especially those students that struggle with math. I will have the tools to ensure they have a year full of growth.”
With gratitude,
Mr. Castrejon
Document Based Question
Funded Aug 24, 2021I wanted to extend my gratitude for helping me find this project. One week I’m, and I’m already seeing how severely underfunded the school is. My demographic of students are the most needed of a proper education. I can’t thank you enough how happy I am to know that my project got funded.”
With gratitude,
Mr. Castrejon
This classroom project was brought to life by The Allstate Foundation and 4 other donors.