Past projects 11
The Stranger
Funded Apr 16, 2025I am delighted to express my deepest gratitude for your generous contribution, which provided our classroom with a class set of the novel "The Stranger" by Albert Camus. This invaluable resource has significantly enriched our educational experience and has become a cornerstone in our International Baccalaureate (IB) Language and Literature curriculum. I am eager to share with you the profound impact this project has had on both my students and our learning environment.
When the students first saw the stack of "The Stranger" novels, their excitement was palpable. Many had heard of Camus' work but had not yet had the opportunity to engage with it in such a focused and meaningful way. The immediate reaction was a blend of curiosity and eagerness to dive into the existential themes and philosophical inquiries that the novel presents. Having their own copies of the book allowed students to annotate, reflect, and engage with the text on a deeper level, which has proven essential for developing their analytical skills.
Incorporating "The Stranger" into our curriculum has opened up a myriad of learning opportunities. The novel serves as a perfect catalyst for discussions about existentialism, the absurd, and the philosophical underpinnings of human existence. We embarked on a project titled "Existential Reflections," where students were tasked with exploring the themes of the novel through various creative and analytical lenses. One memorable moment was when a group of students performed a dramatic interpretation of a pivotal scene, using their understanding of Meursault's character to bring the text to life. This exercise not only demonstrated their grasp of the material but also encouraged them to think critically about the implications of Camus' philosophy in contemporary contexts.
The discussions that have emerged from reading "The Stranger" have been incredibly enriching. Students are encouraged to draw connections between the novel's themes and real-world issues, fostering a deeper understanding of the societal and personal relevance of literature. This has led to insightful debates on topics such as the nature of justice, the meaning of life, and the role of societal norms in shaping individual identity. These discussions have been instrumental in honing students' critical thinking and communication skills, which are essential components of the IB Language and Literature program.
The donation of these novels has not only provided immediate educational benefits but has also laid the foundation for a more enriched and engaged learning environment. The opportunity to explore complex philosophical themes through literature has inspired students to think critically, challenge assumptions, and express their ideas creatively. Your contribution has made a lasting impact on their academic journey, fostering a love for literature and a deeper appreciation for the power of ideas.
Thank you for your generosity and support. Your investment in our students' education has not only enhanced their learning experience but has also empowered them to become thoughtful, informed, and engaged global citizens. We are deeply grateful for your contribution and look forward to sharing more successes and insights as we continue our exploration of literature and philosophy.”
With gratitude,
Ms. Sherlock
This classroom project was brought to life by The DonorsChoose Community and 7 other donors.Sweet Rewards for PBIS
Funded Mar 4, 2025I am thrilled to share with you the profound impact your generous contributions have had on our classroom through the donation of candy and snacks for our Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) rewards program. These resources have not only added an element of excitement and motivation to our classroom but have also played a crucial role in fostering a positive and supportive learning environment.
Upon receiving the candy and snacks, the students' faces lit up with genuine excitement and appreciation. The immediate reaction was one of joy and gratitude, as they recognized that their hard work and positive behavior were being acknowledged and rewarded. This tangible recognition has been instrumental in encouraging students to continue striving for excellence and maintaining a positive attitude.
Incorporating these rewards into our PBIS program has allowed us to emphasize the importance of positive behavior and the impact it has on our classroom community. We have developed a system where students earn points for demonstrating behaviors such as kindness, responsibility, teamwork, and perseverance. These points can then be exchanged for the candy and snacks you provided, creating a sense of accomplishment and motivation among the students.
Looking ahead, these resources have set the stage for our next steps in promoting a culture of positivity and support within our classroom. We are planning to implement a "Student of the Month" program, where students who consistently demonstrate outstanding behavior and contribute positively to the classroom environment will be recognized and rewarded. This initiative aims to create role models within the student body and further encourage positive behavior across the board.
Additionally, the snacks have been integrated into our academic projects as well. For instance, during group assignments or collaborative projects, students who work well together and show exceptional teamwork skills are rewarded with a treat. This not only incentivizes positive behavior but also strengthens teamwork and collaboration skills, which are essential for their future academic and personal endeavors.
Your contribution has truly made a lasting impact on our classroom. By supporting the PBIS rewards program with candy and snacks, you have helped create a more engaging and supportive learning environment. The students are more motivated, the classroom atmosphere is more positive, and the lessons on kindness and cooperation are resonating with the students in meaningful ways.
Thank you once again for your generosity and support. Your contribution has not only provided immediate rewards but has also laid the groundwork for ongoing positive behavior and a thriving classroom community. We are deeply grateful for your investment in our students' growth and development, and we look forward to continuing to build upon the strong foundation you have helped establish.”
With gratitude,
Ms. Sherlock
Spanish Copies of The Nickel Boys for ENL Students
Funded Jan 31, 2025I am thrilled to share the impact your generous contributions have had on our classroom. While we originally intended to purchase Spanish copies of "The Nickel Boys," the funds were instead utilized to acquire essential classroom materials: copy paper, Expo markers, and larger poster paper. These resources have been invaluable in enhancing our learning environment and enriching our educational experiences.
The new materials have facilitated a variety of collaborative and interactive learning activities. The poster paper, for instance, has been instrumental in group projects where students visually represent their analyses and interpretations of texts. This not only fosters creativity but also enhances comprehension by allowing students to express their understanding through different mediums. The Expo markers have been vital for discussions and brainstorming sessions, enabling us to maintain an engaging and dynamic classroom atmosphere.
Additionally, the copy paper has been crucial for creating handouts and resources that support our reading lessons. These materials have helped us explore critical skills such as literary analysis, empathy, and cultural awareness through a diverse range of texts. Students are now more engaged and enthusiastic about reading, as they can interact with the material in innovative ways.
Thank you for your support in making these transformative experiences possible for our students.”
With gratitude,
Ms. Sherlock
The Nickel Boys
Funded Dec 17, 2024I am delighted to share the profound impact that our class set of The Nickel Boys by Colson Whitehead has had on my students. This compelling novel has been instrumental in introducing critical themes such as justice, resilience, and the power of history. Through engaging with this text, students are developing essential skills in critical analysis and empathy. They are learning to navigate complex narratives, assess character motivations, and draw parallels between the novel's themes and contemporary societal issues. This deep analysis not only enhances their literary skills but also encourages them to think critically about the world around them.
In our classroom, reading The Nickel Boys has become an interactive and collaborative experience. Students engage in group discussions, participate in role-playing activities, and write reflective essays that allow them to express their interpretations and connections to the text. This dynamic approach to reading fosters a culture of open dialogue and collective learning. Students are encouraged to voice their perspectives, challenge each other's ideas, and support their arguments with evidence from the text, creating a vibrant and inclusive learning environment.
Several students have shown a particular enthusiasm for The Nickel Boys. One student, who initially struggled with engagement, has become captivated by the novel's narrative, often leading discussions and inspiring peers with insightful observations. Another student, who identifies with the themes of resilience, has been motivated to explore personal reflections and share them with the class, sparking meaningful conversations. These experiences highlight the transformative power of your support, which has enriched our learning environment and inspired students to engage deeply with literature. Thank you for making this possible.”
With gratitude,
Ms. Sherlock
This classroom project was brought to life by The DonorsChoose Community and 4 other donors.The Grace Year: Class Novel
Funded Sep 23, 2024I am thrilled to share the profound impact that our class set of The Grace Year by Kim Liggett has had on my students. This gripping novel has introduced them to critical themes of societal norms, empowerment, and resilience. Through its narrative, students are developing essential skills such as critical analysis, inferencing, and thematic exploration. They are learning to dissect complex character motivations and societal structures, which enhances their understanding of literature and the real world.
In our classroom, reading has become an engaging and collaborative experience. We have integrated book discussions, role-playing, and reflective journaling into our lessons. Students are encouraged to explore the novel's themes from multiple perspectives, leading to rich discussions and debates. This interactive approach not only deepens comprehension but also fosters a love for literature as students connect personally with the text.
Several students have shown a particular enthusiasm for The Grace Year. One student, who typically preferred non-fiction, has become engrossed in the novel's dystopian world, often leading discussions and inspiring peers with insights. Another student, who identifies with the themes of empowerment, has been motivated to write personal reflections and share them with the class, sparking meaningful conversations. These experiences highlight the transformative power of your support, which has enriched our learning environment and inspired students to engage deeply with literature. Thank you for making this possible.”
With gratitude,
Ms. Sherlock
Born a Crime
Funded Sep 18, 2024I am delighted to share the tremendous impact that our class set of Born A Crime has had on my students. This powerful memoir by Trevor Noah has opened up rich avenues for learning and discussion, allowing students to explore themes of identity, resilience, and social justice. Through engaging with Noah's narrative, students have developed critical thinking and analytical skills, as they examine complex societal issues and draw connections to their own lives. The book has also enhanced their empathy and cultural understanding, fostering a more inclusive classroom environment.
Reading in our classroom has become a dynamic and interactive experience. Students participate in lively discussions, share personal reflections, and engage in group activities that deepen their comprehension and engagement with the text. We've implemented literature circles, where students lead discussions and explore different perspectives, promoting collaborative learning and peer teaching. This approach has cultivated a love for reading and empowered students to take ownership of their learning.
Several students have shown a particular enthusiasm for Born A Crime. One student, who initially struggled with reading motivation, has become captivated by Noah's storytelling and now shares insights with the class, demonstrating newfound confidence and interest. Another student has connected deeply with the memoir's themes, sparking thoughtful reflections and discussions about their own experiences. These moments are a testament to the powerful impact your support has made, enriching our classroom and inspiring our students. Thank you for making this transformative learning experience possible.”
With gratitude,
Ms. Sherlock
This classroom project was brought to life by The DonorsChoose Community & an Anonymous Partner and 2 other donors.Flexible Seating for Collaboration
Funded Oct 30, 2024I am thrilled to share the transformative impact your generous contribution has had on our classroom. With the new flexible seating options, my students now have the freedom to choose where they learn best, which has significantly enhanced their engagement and collaboration. One memorable moment was during a recent group project on digital storytelling. Students eagerly gathered around the new seating arrangements, choosing chairs that suited their preferences and needs, and immediately began brainstorming and exchanging ideas. The seating flexibility has empowered them to work more collaboratively, fostering a sense of ownership and creativity in their learning.
When my students first saw the new chairs, their excitement was palpable. Their eyes lit up, and they quickly began testing out the different seating options, chatting enthusiastically with each other about which chair they liked best. It was heartwarming to see how something as simple as seating could invigorate their enthusiasm for learning and help them feel more comfortable and supported in the classroom.
As we continue to explore the benefits of flexible seating, our next steps involve integrating these resources into a collaborative project on sustainability. Students will form teams to research and propose eco-friendly solutions for our school community, using the flexible seating to facilitate group discussions and presentations. Your support has not only enhanced our classroom environment but has also paved the way for continued collaborative and innovative learning experiences. Thank you for making a lasting difference in our students' educational journey.”
With gratitude,
Ms. Sherlock
This classroom project was brought to life by Smarties Candy Company and one other donor.Readers Become Leaders
Funded Jun 3, 2024Receiving the collection of novels "Frankenstein," "The Kite Runner" (Graphic Novel), "The Handmaid's Tale," and "Beloved" for our classroom literature circles has profoundly enriched our educational environment. These books not only bring diverse narratives and complex themes into the classroom but also provide a unique opportunity to develop a wide array of critical skills and lessons.
Each book in this collection introduces students to essential skills such as critical thinking, empathy, cultural awareness, and literary analysis. For instance, "Frankenstein" by Mary Shelley offers a rich exploration of themes like the consequences of unchecked ambition and the ethical implications of scientific advancement. It encourages students to delve into ethical reasoning and understand the impact of human actions on society—a vital skill in today's rapidly evolving world.
"The Kite Runner" graphic novel adaptation presents an accessible entry point into complex themes such as redemption, friendship, and the socio-political landscape of Afghanistan. Graphic novels, with their visual storytelling, enhance comprehension and engage visual learners, making difficult topics more accessible.
"The Handmaid's Tale" by Margaret Atwood and "Beloved" by Toni Morrison provide platforms for discussions on gender, power, and historical injustices. These texts challenge students to analyze societal structures and historical contexts, fostering a deeper understanding of issues related to gender equality and racial history. Such discussions are crucial for developing empathy and cultural awareness, preparing students for the diverse and interconnected world they inhabit.
In our classroom, reading is an interactive and collaborative experience. Literature circles are designed to promote student-driven discussions, allowing them to explore the texts' themes and characters in depth. Each group reads a different book, rotating roles such as discussion leader, connector, and summarizer. This structure ensures that every student is engaged and contributes to the learning process.
We integrate various activities to enhance understanding and engagement. For example, students might create art pieces inspired by "Beloved" or perform dramatic readings from "The Handmaid's Tale." These activities align with best practices in engaging students through captivating and meaningful learning experiences.
The introduction of these books has sparked remarkable enthusiasm and engagement among students. One student, who previously struggled with traditional literature, has found a deep connection with "The Kite Runner" graphic novel, appreciating the visual storytelling and complex narrative. This has led to improved comprehension and a newfound interest in reading.
Another student, intrigued by the ethical dilemmas in "Frankenstein," has taken the initiative to explore parallel themes in modern technology, demonstrating critical thinking and curiosity. The discussions around "The Handmaid's Tale" have empowered students to voice their thoughts on gender and power dynamics, fostering a classroom environment where diverse perspectives are valued and explored.
These texts resonate with students on various levels, allowing them to see themselves and their world reflected in literature. This connection not only enhances their enjoyment but also fosters a deeper appreciation for reading as a tool for exploration and understanding.
Receiving these novels has profoundly impacted our classroom by promoting critical thinking, empathy, and a love for literature. The skills and lessons gained from these texts are invaluable, equipping students with the tools to navigate an increasingly complex world. We are incredibly grateful to our donors for their support and the opportunity to bring these transformative experiences to our students.”
With gratitude,
Ms. Sherlock
This classroom project was brought to life by Michael Jordan and The Jordan Brand and one other donor.Dystopian Novels for Literature Circles
Funded Jun 3, 2024Receiving a collection of dystopian literature like "Chain Gang All Stars," "Never Let Me Go," "Parable of the Sower," "The Grace Year," and "Brave New World" for our classroom literature circles has had a profound impact on both the learning environment and the students themselves. This diverse selection of texts offers a unique opportunity to introduce and develop a range of critical thinking skills and lessons that resonate deeply with the students.
Dystopian literature is an excellent tool for teaching critical thinking, empathy, and social awareness. Each book provides a different lens through which to explore complex themes such as societal norms, ethical dilemmas, identity, and resistance. For example, "Never Let Me Go" by Kazuo Ishiguro prompts discussions around the ethics of cloning and the value of human life, encouraging students to engage in ethical reasoning. "Parable of the Sower" by Octavia Butler explores themes of survival and resilience, fostering discussions on socio-economic disparities and climate change.
These texts also enhance skills in literary analysis. Students learn to identify and interpret themes, symbols, and motifs. The rich, descriptive language found in these novels aids in vocabulary development and enhances comprehension skills. Moreover, they encourage students to draw connections between the fictional worlds and real-world issues, helping them to become more informed and empathetic citizens.
In our classroom, reading is a dynamic and engaging process. Literature circles are structured to promote collaborative learning, allowing students to take ownership of their discussions and learning outcomes. Each group is assigned a different novel, and students rotate roles such as discussion leader, summarizer, and connector, ensuring that everyone is actively involved and accountable for their learning.
The environment fosters open dialogue, where students feel safe to express their thoughts and questions. We use a blend of individual reading, group discussions, and creative projects to deepen understanding. For instance, students might create visual art representing themes from "The Grace Year" or perform dramatic readings of key passages from "Brave New World." These activities align with the principles of engaging students through captivating learning experiences.
Since receiving these books, several students have shown remarkable enthusiasm and engagement. One student, typically reserved, has found a voice through the discussions of "Chain Gang All Stars," sharing insightful connections between the book's themes and contemporary issues such as mass incarceration. Another student, who struggles with traditional assignments, has excelled in a group project inspired by "Brave New World," demonstrating creativity and critical thinking through a digital presentation.
The diversity of perspectives offered by these books resonates with students on various levels, allowing them to see themselves and their world reflected in literature. This connection not only enhances their enjoyment but also fosters a deeper appreciation for reading as a tool for exploration and understanding.
The introduction of these dystopian novels has enriched our classroom by promoting critical thinking, empathy, and a love for literature. The skills and lessons gained from these texts will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on the students, equipping them with the tools to navigate an increasingly complex world. We are immensely grateful to our donors for their support and the opportunity to bring these valuable experiences to our classroom.”
With gratitude,
Ms. Sherlock
This classroom project was brought to life by Michael Jordan and The Jordan Brand and 3 other donors.Born a Crime
Funded Nov 20, 2023I am writing to express my deepest gratitude for your generous donation of Trevor Noah's "Born A Crime" to our tenth-grade English honors class. Your thoughtful contribution has had a profound impact on our students, sparking a journey of self-discovery and critical inquiry into the conventions of memoir, the historical context of Apartheid, and the complexities of race, identity, and family.
Thanks to your support, our class delved into the rich tapestry of Noah's narrative, exploring his unique blend of humor, wit, and poignant social commentary. Your donation facilitated vibrant discussions where students dissected Noah's narrative techniques, uncovering how he masterfully employs humor to illuminate deeper societal issues. Through collaborative writing exercises and creative projects inspired by Noah's memoir, students honed their analytical skills while also crafting their own narratives, incorporating the memoir conventions we studied. Your generosity has not only enriched our academic experience but has also fostered empathy, understanding, and a profound appreciation for the power of storytelling to bridge divides and foster connection.”
With gratitude,
Ms. Sherlock
This classroom project was brought to life by Con Edison and 3 other donors.