Past projects 2
Supplied and Organized for Learning Success
Funded Sep 18, 2024On behalf of my students, I want to thank you for your generous support. Your contribution plays a pivotal role in shaping the educational experiences of these learners, and I want to share with you how your donation is being put to use.
This year, students are using the composition notebooks you provided as interactive note-taking tools. These notebooks are more than just a place to jot down notes; they are a structured resource for students to track their learning. Students record essential reading strategies, academic vocabulary, literacy skills, and notes aligned with core benchmarks.
The plastic folders help address a critical challenge many students face: staying organized and prepared for learning. They are tracking their data and growth as well as keeping differentiated learning material organized and within reach at all times.
With these supplies along with the paper, pencil sharpeners and other supplies, students have the resources they need right at their fingertips, ensuring they can easily access their notes, track their learning, and revisit important concepts whenever necessary. This organized approach not only enhances their academic performance but also helps cultivate good study habits and a sense of responsibility.
Thank you again for your investment in my students' academic success and their futures.”
With gratitude,
Mrs. Ruiz Andrade
This classroom project was brought to life by The DonorsChoose Community & an Anonymous Partner and 5 other donors.Students Linking Others to Literacy
Funded Mar 20, 2024On behalf of my students, Homestead Senior High Schools, and members of their families and community, I am writing to express our heartfelt gratitude for your generous donation of the novels Forged by Fire and Darkness Before Dawn by Sharon Draper. Your contribution has significantly impacted our community, particularly in enhancing reading skills and strategies among our youth.
Enhancing Reading Skills
The introduction of Forged by Fire and Darkness Before Dawn into our library and educational programs has been transformative for our students' reading skills. The compelling narratives and relatable characters have captivated our young readers, encouraging them to engage more deeply with the text. Teachers have reported notable improvements in several key areas:
Reading Fluency: The accessible language and gripping storylines have helped students read more smoothly and with greater confidence. This has been especially beneficial for reluctant readers who previously found reading to be a challenge.
Comprehension: The novels have been instrumental in enhancing students' ability to understand and interpret text. Through guided reading sessions, students have been able to delve into the deeper meanings of the stories, analyzing characters' motivations and the themes of resilience and hope.
Vocabulary Development: Exposure to the rich, yet accessible vocabulary used by Sharon Draper has expanded our students' lexicons. This, in turn, has improved their overall communication skills, both written and oral.
Questioning and Clarifying: Educators have used the novels to encourage students to ask questions and seek clarification on complex topics, fostering a more interactive and inquisitive learning environment.
Fostering a Love for Reading
The stories of Gerald in Forged by Fire and Keisha in Darkness Before Dawn have resonated deeply with our students, many of whom see reflections of their own experiences in these characters. This connection has ignited a passion for reading that extends beyond the classroom. Students are now more eager to explore other books, broadening their horizons and further developing their reading skills.
Building a Supportive Reading Community
Your donation has also facilitated a sense of community around reading. We have organized book clubs and reading circles where students, families, and community groups have come together to read and discuss the novels. These activities have not only strengthened reading skills but also fostered a supportive network where reading is celebrated and valued.
Below are a few short testimonials from students:
"My cheer sisters and I would always be ready for our coach to call break just so we could read another chapter, that's how much we loved reading this book." N.V.
"I really want to thank you for purchasing the books Forged by Fire for my class. I have been reading with my friends and family. Together we learned that every experience and adversity we go though in life changes who you are as a person, and you should never take your happy life for granted. Reading forged by fire showed me how rough some people have it, Gerald had to grow up living in fear because of his abusive stepfather, and an alcoholic mother that is careless when it comes to taking care of her child one example of this is her leaving Gerald alone to go meet with a drug dealer, seeing how he overcame both those obstacles with the help of his stepsister and his kind aunt is inspiring to a young man like me because it teaches me even if you're going through a tough time most people have it worse and you should always be grateful for what you have in life." J.H.
"Dear Allstate, Reading this story with my friend allowed her to realize she's not alone in the problems she has. Dealing with suicide or any type of grief doesn't have to be lonely. Reading the story and sharing it with people can express that. So, thank you! "J.R.
"I just want to say thank you for this very good book. It gave me more experience and knowledge of people with suicidal thoughts. I knew people who have committed suicide, and this really help reflect and gave me a better understanding of it.
My dance team and I had a great time reading Darkness Before Dawn. We learned more about the downfall of teens like us. We enjoyed ourselves discussing and reflecting.
So, thank you very much for donating this inspiring book." G.D.
In conclusion, Allstate's donation of Forged by Fire and Darkness Before Dawn has had a profound and positive impact on our community. The novels have played a crucial role in enhancing reading skills and strategies, fostering a love for reading, and building a supportive reading community. We are immensely grateful for your generosity and support.
Thank you once again for your commitment to our community's educational success. We look forward to continuing our partnership and making a lasting difference together.”
With gratitude,
Mrs. Ruiz Andrade
This classroom project was brought to life by The Allstate Foundation.