Mr. Zorrilla's Classroom Edit display name

Past projects 6

• Enhancing Our Classroom with Learning Tools

  Funded Aug 19, 2024

  We are eternally grateful for your generosity, this equipment will aid students in excelling in both reading and writing in the classroom.

  Not only will these materials be vital to the classroom and our learning, but students will get to share their learning with peers and folks alike.

  Once again, thank you.”

  With gratitude,

  Mr. Zorrilla

  This classroom project was brought to life by The Gates Foundation and 4 other donors.

• Sparking All Student Voices: Literary Criticism in the English Classroom

  Funded Aug 14, 2024

  Thank you taking interest in my students education. Your donation goes far beyond the hat we will utilize them for, but ultimately what we will learn for their long term. Once, again, we thank you dearly. I am so excited to share these resources to my students. Very yours truly, class of 24-25.”

  With gratitude,

  Mr. Zorrilla

  This classroom project was brought to life by The Gates Foundation and one other donor.

• "Journeying Through Faulkner: 10th Graders Explore 'As I Lay Dying'"

  Funded Oct 11, 2023

  Introducing *As I Lay Dying* by William Faulkner to my students was a transformative experience that reshaped their understanding of literature. The novel's complex narrative structure, with its multiple perspectives and stream-of-consciousness style, challenged them to think critically about how stories are told and how characters' inner worlds can be portrayed. Many of them had never encountered a book that demanded such active participation from the reader, and this led to rich discussions about narrative voice, the reliability of narrators, and the significance of Faulkner's choice to present the Bundren family's story through so many different lenses. The students were particularly struck by the way Faulkner's language—both in its beauty and its difficulty—forced them to slow down and engage with the text on a deeper level.

  Moreover, *As I Lay Dying* had a profound emotional impact on my students. The novel's exploration of grief, family dynamics, and the human struggle to find meaning resonated with them in unexpected ways. They found themselves empathizing with characters they initially disliked or misunderstood, which sparked conversations about the complexity of human behavior and the idea that everyone has a story worth telling. This empathy extended beyond the classroom, as many students began to reflect on their own lives and the experiences of those around them with a new sense of understanding and compassion. Faulkner's work not only enriched their literary knowledge but also deepened their emotional intelligence, leaving a lasting impression on their development as both readers and individuals.”

  With gratitude,

  Mr. Zorrilla

  This classroom project was brought to life by The DonorsChoose Community & an Anonymous Partner and 2 other donors.

• Diverse Voices: Opening Worlds through Literature

  Funded Oct 11, 2023

  With the aid and and help, we have been diving into a project centered around persuasive writing and oral arguments, and the new resources have really elevated our work to build upon our knowledge. For this rich reading, my students were able to craft persuasive essays on topics they're passionate about.

  When the students first encountered the new materials, their reactions were a mix of excitement and curiosity. They were eager to get started, immediately brainstorming ways to integrate their knowledge of literary criticism. Some students even collaborated with their peers to refine their analysis, experimenting with different ideas and approaches.

  Next, we're planning a "analysis Fair" where each student will present their arguments and multimedia pieces to a panel of teachers and students. This event will not only showcase their persuasive skills but also demonstrate the impact of the resources, thanks to the generous contributions from our donors.”

  With gratitude,

  Mr. Zorrilla

  This classroom project was brought to life by The DonorsChoose Community & an Anonymous Partner and one other donor.

• Building an Enriching Classroom

  Funded Sep 20, 2023

  With the aid and and help, we have been diving into a project centered around persuasive writing and oral arguments, and the new resources have really elevated our work to build upon our knowledge.

  For several assignments, the students were able to craft persuasive essays on topics they're passionate about and then presenting their arguments through multimedia presentations, with the resources provided.

  One standout moment was when a student used our new digital tools to create a compelling video essay advocating for environmental conservation. Her use of striking visuals and persuasive techniques left the me and the class impressed but also inspired. The ability to blend traditional writing with multimedia has allowed the students to explore new ways to persuade and engage their classes.

  When the students first encountered the new materials, their reactions were a mix of excitement and curiosity. They were eager to get started, immediately brainstorming ways to integrate the tools into their arguments. Some students even collaborated with their peers to refine their presentations, experimenting with different formats and approaches.

  Next, we're planning a "Persuasion Fair" where each student will present their arguments and multimedia pieces to a panel of teachers and community members. This event will not only showcase their persuasive skills but also demonstrate the impact of the resources, thanks to the generous contributions from our donors.”

  With gratitude,

  Mr. Zorrilla

  This classroom project was brought to life by The DonorsChoose Community and 3 other donors.

• Empowering Future Journalists at HHS!

  Funded Nov 4, 2023

  Thank you for your immense support to empower the voices of Holyoke! We are thrilled to utilize these tools to our best capacity. And We are excited for what’s to come.

  Your donation means students will have the equipment to broaden and share the unique stories rooted in our community.”

  With gratitude,

  Mr. Zorrilla

  This classroom project was brought to life by The Allstate Foundation and one other donor.