Past projects 2
Inclusive Literacy
Funded Oct 6, 2019Having a library is a key component to any classroom. Students are exposed to a variety of texts every day. An elementary classroom is a safe space for students to begin to discover their own identity and the identity of others. They begin to recognize that all people have a vast range of differences that make us unique and special. Sometimes these differences can be confusing, and children will have many questions.
By providing students with a library that features fictional characters as well as nonfiction historical figures and events, our students can seek answers to their questions. Representation is an important factor in children's literature. An inclusive library, like the one funded in this project, normalizes "politically charged" or "controversial" topics such as LGBTQ+, race, cultural backgrounds, and gendered stereotypes.
I implemented my library the day after my books arrived. I allow students to use the library during designated reading times. The students choose their own books and often read books together. They are engaging with the texts and with each other. In some cases, I have observed my students pointing out illustrations depicting two fathers pushing a stroller or a boy wearing a skirt. They do not appear to be making fun of the characters, rather they are asking each other to acknowledge the 'something different' in their text and moving on. Additionally, I refer to the books as a resource. For example, my fourth grade students will argue over which boy has to get a pink marker. In this case, "Pink is for Boys" is a great conversation starter about how colors are not gendered.
My goal in creating this project was to expose students to texts with representation of under-represented communities. I feel that this is a small step toward creating a more inclusive school climate and overall community.”
With gratitude,
Mrs. Coffey
Early Literacy Through Digital Literacy
Funded Mar 10, 2019My students were so excited to receive the tablets. We received a phone call when they arrive mere days after our project was funded. I spent the first day updating the tablet software, deactivating non-educational applications and functions, and installing our district wide programs. My students now have access to an online digital library, Reflex Math, and Lexia Core 5 Learning. In addition to these school adopted programs, my students now have access to PBS Games, Brain Pop Jr, Starfall, The Cat in the Hat Builds That (science and engineering), and Flipgrid. These applications build my students literacy and mathematical fluency while fostering creativity, collaboration, and communication.
In the classroom, we use our tablets during centers.Four days a week, for one hour, my students participate in independent, collaborative, and small group activities. Some days, my students use Reading Eggs to develop early literacy through sight word practice. Other days, my students are reading in a digital library that was customized to match the core content in our English Language Arts curriculum.
At first introduction, the students took to the tablets like ducks to water. To begin, I allowed my students to have time to explore the tablet and all of the included apps and features. They were able to interact with the apps without hesitation. My students are familiar with the layout as they have access to similar devices in their homes.”
With gratitude,
Mrs. Coffey