Past projects 3
The Freedom Writers Middle School Starter Pack
Funded Aug 14, 2024What an amazing semester we've had! As we head into the second half of the school year, my students have eagerly embraced their study habits, equipped with pencils, markers, journals, folders, and other supplies at their fingertips. With materials clearly labeled, easily accessible, and organized, they are more focused and ready to learn.
For many of my students, writing, spelling, and expressing themselves can be a struggle. In the past, the lack of tools often led to frustration and giving up. But this year, thanks to your generosity, they have the tools they need—and so do I.
Right now, our studies have brought us to The Diary of Anne Frank and the incredible story of her protectors. My students are discovering the power of a child's words to shape the world. Through learning about Anne's story, they are also beginning to uncover their own desire to speak and be heard.
The journals, folders, pencils, and markers you provided have been instrumental in helping my students find joy in expressing themselves in creative and meaningful ways. Coupled with the inspiring workbook of Erin Gruwell and her Freedom Writers, I am helping them discover their unique voices and learn to tell their own stories. Watching their enthusiasm as they put pen to paper, sharing their thoughts, stories, and dreams, has been nothing short of incredible. These moments of growth, creativity, and learning are possible because of your kindness and commitment to their education.
Thank you for investing in their futures and for being such a valued part of their journey. Your generosity is a powerful reminder that a community that cares makes all the difference.”
With gratitude,
Ms. H
This classroom project was brought to life by The Gates Foundation and 5 other donors.Ms. H's Miraculous Monarch Mission
Funded May 7, 2024My students have had such an engaging experience in interacting with the butterflies. Not only has the transformation from caterpillar to butterfly been fun to watch in our lovely enclosures and learn about, but the figurative journey has been impactful too, helping my students find the metaphorical wings waiting inside of themselves.
As we read through " Hope for the flowers", the students began expressing less fact and more introspection, as they began expressing their feelings and parallels from the story to their own lives.
Their experience with the butterflies as well as the plants they depend helped spread the habitat for monarchs to new gardens and neighborhoods, creating waystations for our migrating friends. Our lovely enclosures helped provide us front row seats to this lovely pageant, and our camera helped provide a clear view of the action without disturbing our flying friends.
Lastly, being part of the migration by raising and releasing Monarchs and Queens allowed for my students to make a difference, doing some small bit to help recover this lovely species.
Thank you, sincerely, for your support of both my students and the Monarchs.”
With gratitude,
Ms. H
This classroom project was brought to life by An Anonymous Supporter and 2 other donors.Ms. H's Very Small Space Seating!
Funded Sep 24, 2023I can't thank you enough for your generosity. In the days since the arrival of our supplies, our room has become a place where children feel comfortable to learn and grow...but not too much!
Our space is now a place of light, color, and comfort. My students feel cared for and have adjusted to the new room quickly. We are always making adjustments to new needs and new students, so the room is constantly in a slight state of flux, but the open seating and the ability to adjust to their own needs each day by choosing their seat has actually created a classroom of less conflict and more community.
Our bookshelves have allowed us to take advantage of the vertical space available in our classroom. Our printer has allowed for quick changes to documents and lesson plans and has allowed me to remain with my students while making those changes. Our beanbag chairs have become a reason to not be late to class. They are front row, so I have students choosing to be where the teaching is, instead of trying to hide in the back of the room.
The comfortable, welcoming atmosphere of the classroom often pulls in students not in the class. They want to know how they can be a part of this class. Often, I can see the pride in my students' faces when they hear this... because they ARE a part of the class. Being here is a source of pride for them instead of a sense of shame. These are the gifts beyond price that you have bequeathed to my students. Thank you so much for your help.”
With gratitude,
Ms. H