Enhance My Classroom Library to Foster Inclusivity and Belonging

Funded Jul 26, 2024

It has been incredibly rewarding to incorporate the literature I received from Donors Choose into my classroom. The students have relished listening to and discussing the diverse stories that highlight various backgrounds and needs. We have delved into the significance of inclusion and acceptance, reflecting on how our words and actions affect those around us.

A major objective for this year has been to utilize several of the books as a launching point for a name project with my class. After reading stories centered around names, I distributed a questionnaire for families to fill out together, focusing on the meaning and history of each child's name. In class, throughout the past month, the students have been creating posters, books, or videos about their names. Once these projects are finished, they will be shared with their classmates. Although we have a few videos left to complete, many students have already finished their projects and are eagerly looking forward to presenting them.

During this project, students have expressed their enjoyment, stating things like, "this is fun" and "I am really glad we are doing this." Others have asked to reread the stories on their own. Additionally, while working on Thanksgiving writing, one student mentioned how thankful she is for her name.

I am eager to engage in further discussions and activities based on the readings of additional books I received from Donors Choose.”

With gratitude,

Ms. McElroy