Past projects 5
Books That Spark Joy: Empowering Young Readers of Color
Funded Nov 11, 2024Thank you so much for your generous support and belief in our classroom’s potential! Your donations make a huge difference, giving my students access to engaging resources and inspiring a love for learning. We’re incredibly grateful for your kindness and commitment to education. Together, we’re achieving great things!”
With gratitude,
Ms. Maitland
Unlocking Thrills: Building a Library of Imagination for Student Readers
Funded Sep 21, 2023Since receiving the new resources for our classroom library, our students have been absolutely captivated. We've transformed a corner of our room into a dedicated space filled with horror and thriller books, and it's quickly become a favorite spot for many. One of our recent classroom projects involved students creating their own short thriller stories inspired by the books they've been reading. The excitement and energy were palpable as they eagerly dove into these stories, drawing inspiration from their favorite characters and plot twists. It's been incredible to see them not only engage with the material but also to take ownership of their learning by exploring different narrative techniques they've encountered in these books.
When our students first saw the newly designed library, their faces lit up with awe and curiosity. For some, it was the first time they felt genuinely drawn to reading, seeing books that spoke directly to their interests. They immediately started sharing recommendations with each other and discussing their favorite spine-chilling scenes. This enthusiasm is exactly what we had hoped for—a space that ignites a passion for reading, especially for those who have struggled in the past.
Looking ahead, our students are now working on a collaborative project where they'll adapt their thriller stories into short film scripts. With the foundation of inspiration they've gained from these books, they're ready to take their creativity to the next level. We can't wait to see how their storytelling evolves and how they continue to build their identities as writers, creators, and critical thinkers, all thanks to your generous support.”
With gratitude,
Ms. Maitland
This classroom project was brought to life by The DonorsChoose Community and 11 other donors.Week Without Walls: "A Little More Joy" Self-Care Serenity Retreat
Funded May 1, 2024Since receiving the resources for "A Little More Joy: Self-Care Serenity Retreat," our students were able to be immersed in creating moments of relaxation and self-discovery. We organized a self-care session where students explored different activities like meditation, crafting, and journaling, using the supplies generously provided by our donors. The retreat atmosphere was filled with a sense of calm and joy as students engaged in these activities at their own pace, discovering what brought them peace and fulfillment. It was truly inspiring to see them embrace these moments of self-reflection and mindfulness, something many of them hadn't experienced before in such a supportive setting.
When the students first saw the journals and crafting supplies, their excitement was palpable. Some students immediately gravitated toward the journals, pouring their thoughts onto the pages, while others found solace in creating personalized crafts that allowed them to express their creativity. The space quickly became a sanctuary where students felt comfortable being themselves, exploring new ways to care for their mental and physical well-being.
Your generous support has not only made this retreat possible but has also helped foster a culture of mindfulness and self-compassion among our students, empowering them to prioritize their well-being both in and outside the classroom.”
With gratitude,
Ms. Maitland
Be Kind and Donate a Kindle
Funded Oct 23, 2022Your contributions have helped my classes gain access to read whatever book they desire! Our Kindles are beneficial because they provide students with a similar reading experience as they would reading a book because of the display that reads like real paper. Our students can read the newest and bestselling books and texts that are often costly, yet to be available in every library or already checked out at their public library due to their popularity. These Kindles allow them to read from millions of new books, audible books, and even the latest editions of newspapers and magazines.
We want to thank you again for your efforts.”
With gratitude,
Ms. Maitland
Classroom Library
Funded Oct 22, 20221. Many of our donors love to read books (we do, too!) but don't know as much as you do about how to teach books. What are some of the skills or lessons introduced by these new texts?
My school focuses on independent reading. We feel it is important to carve out time for students to have a choice in the books they read and space and time to read these books. I plan to use the books donated from Donor's Choice to add to my classroom library, so students have more of an array of new and engaging books to read. As we read, we also focus on analyzing our books for the author's craft choices. So for example, one week, we may focus on point of view. I would do a mini-lesson that focuses on defining or reviewing a literary device/strategy and/or reviewing one and then having students look for and annotate their books to find examples of this device. I would then attach an array of activities to this focus. So I have students do turn and talks, where they talk with a partner or small group about the examples they have found or I may create prompts that allow them to discuss their feelings about th enovel. I often use focus questions to guide them. I will also have students create journal reflections that allow them space to discuss important ideas and their feelings about the books they are reading.
2. What does reading look like in your classroom?
It is quiet. All students are reading or looking for a book to read. Sometimes we are also listening to calming music.
3. Are there particular students who are especially enjoying the new books, and how so?
They all are!”
With gratitude,
Ms. Maitland