Ms. McKinney's Classroom Edit display name

Current requests

Past projects 64

• Breaking out of Boring

  Funded Feb 8, 2023

  I am writing to share the transformative impact that your generous contributions have had on our students and their educational journey. Despite the challenges posed by recent legislation that restricts access to cultural and historical education, your support has opened new pathways for our students to engage with their heritage and diverse narratives.

  The addition of picture books and young adult titles featuring protagonists of color to our school library has been nothing short of revolutionary. In a school where 94% of our students come from marginalized backgrounds, these books have provided a crucial platform for exploration and understanding.

  Students have been returning to class not only refreshed but also with a newfound sense of acceptance and appreciation for their identities. The exposure to works by Black authors, illustrators, and narrators has encouraged them to embrace their heritage and initiate meaningful conversations about their identities. As James Baldwin wisely noted, "Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced." Through these books, our students are beginning to face and discuss the complexities of their identities, extending these conversations beyond the confines of Black History Month.

  With these materials, I have been able to create a more inclusive and responsive learning environment. Our teaching has evolved to celebrate diversity and foster a sense of belonging among all students. The diverse narratives have been instrumental in helping students develop empathy, critical thinking, and a broader worldview. They return to class not only eager to learn but also confident that they are valued members of our school community.

  These resources have also allowed us to encourage voluntary, self-driven learning. Students are engaging with texts that resonate with them personally, which has reignited their passion for reading and learning without the pressure of grades or mandates. This approach has cultivated a more enriching and personalized educational experience, where students feel empowered to explore and express their identities in a safe space.

  Thank you for helping us plant the seeds of change. Your support has made a lasting impact, inspiring our students to embrace their identities and aspire to make meaningful contributions to the world.”

  With gratitude,

  Ms. McKinney

  This classroom project was brought to life by Black History Month Partners and 4 other donors.

• Books for Black History Month & Beyond

  Funded Feb 8, 2023

  I am writing to share the transformative impact that your generous contributions have had on our students and their educational journey. Despite the challenges posed by recent legislation that restricts access to cultural and historical education, your support has opened new pathways for our students to engage with their heritage and diverse narratives.

  The addition of picture books and young adult titles featuring protagonists of color to our school library has been nothing short of revolutionary. In a school where 94% of our students come from marginalized backgrounds, these books have provided a crucial platform for exploration and understanding.

  Students have been returning to class not only refreshed but also with a newfound sense of acceptance and appreciation for their identities. The exposure to works by Black authors, illustrators, and narrators has encouraged them to embrace their heritage and initiate meaningful conversations about their identities. As James Baldwin wisely noted, "Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced." Through these books, our students are beginning to face and discuss the complexities of their identities, extending these conversations beyond the confines of Black History Month.

  With these materials, I have been able to create a more inclusive and responsive learning environment. Our teaching has evolved to celebrate diversity and foster a sense of belonging among all students. The diverse narratives have been instrumental in helping students develop empathy, critical thinking, and a broader worldview. They return to class not only eager to learn but also confident that they are valued members of our school community.

  These resources have also allowed us to encourage voluntary, self-driven learning. Students are engaging with texts that resonate with them personally, which has reignited their passion for reading and learning without the pressure of grades or mandates. This approach has cultivated a more enriching and personalized educational experience, where students feel empowered to explore and express their identities in a safe space.

  Thank you for helping us plant the seeds of change. Your support has made a lasting impact, inspiring our students to embrace their identities and aspire to make meaningful contributions to the world.”

  With gratitude,

  Ms. McKinney

  This classroom project was brought to life by Black History Month Partners and 2 other donors.

• Bookmarks, Swag, & a Reason to Brag

  Funded Feb 21, 2023

  I am writing to express my heartfelt gratitude for the incredible support provided by the materials that have made a significant impact on our students' learning during these challenging times. The Covid-19 pandemic has had a devastating effect on literacy, with reading scores falling by the largest margin in 30 years, according to the National Assessment of Educational Progress. However, your generous contribution has been instrumental in turning this tide.

  With the introduction of incentives such as bookmarks, stickers, erasers, PopSockets, and bookish journals, we have witnessed a remarkable transformation in our students' approach to reading. These small yet meaningful rewards have motivated students to read more, with many eagerly picking up books to earn their prizes. The excitement of discovering a scratch-off ticket hidden in a library book has added an element of surprise and joy to their reading experience.

  The results have been inspiring. Students who previously showed little interest in reading have embraced the challenge of reading 10 titles to earn their incentives. The top library patron for each quarter is now recognized with a reading reward certificate, providing them with a sense of achievement and pride. Additionally, the experiential learning experiences and Barnes and Noble gift cards have offered our students the rare opportunity to explore an actual bookstore—an experience that less than 5% of our students had ever had before.

  The materials provided have allowed me to accomplish so much more in my teaching than I ever imagined possible. With these tools, I have been able to create a dynamic and engaging reading environment that fosters a love for literacy. Students have not only improved their reading skills, but they have also developed critical thinking abilities, enhanced their imagination, and learned to manage stress better.

  In conclusion, I cannot express enough how much this initiative has meant to our school community. Your support has not only provided tangible resources but has also inspired a renewed passion for reading among our students. Thank you for being a vital part of our journey to impact the lives of young learners positively.”

  With gratitude,

  Ms. McKinney

  This classroom project was brought to life by Phillips 66® and 5 other donors.

• Active & Auditory

  Funded Nov 29, 2022

  I am thrilled to share the profound impact that our "Knit and Lit" program has had on our students. This unique combination of kinesthetic and auditory reading experiences has not only enriched their learning but has also fostered a sense of community and inclusivity within our school.

  The introduction of audiobooks as part of our program has significantly enhanced students' comprehension, vocabulary, and focus. Our students, particularly those with Dyslexia or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, have shown remarkable improvement in their reading skills. The auditory format allows them to engage with literature in a way that feels accessible and enjoyable.

  Simultaneously, the activities of sewing, knitting, and crocheting have provided our students with a creative outlet that reduces stress, anxiety, and depression. The hands-on experience of creating dolls or loveys for babies in our school's daycare has instilled a sense of purpose and compassion in our students, making the learning experience both meaningful and rewarding.

  The materials provided, particularly the diverse skeins of yarn and crochet hooks, have allowed us to emphasize the importance of inclusivity and representation. By creating items that reflect the diverse skin tones and hair textures of our student body, we have sent a powerful message that every student is seen, heard, valued, and safe within our library's warm and welcoming environment.

  This project has also enabled us to engage with our pregnant and parenting population, offering them a supportive space where they can connect with others and participate in self-care activities. The result has been a more inclusive and vibrant school community, where all students feel empowered to explore literature and express their creativity.

  The "Knit and Lit" program has truly transformed our students' learning experiences, promoting both academic growth and emotional well-being. We are immensely grateful for the opportunity to continue this journey, nurturing a lifelong love for reading and creativity among our students.”

  With gratitude,

  Ms. McKinney

  This classroom project was brought to life by an Anonymous Classroom Supporter and one other donor.

• Reading Incentives for Black History Month

  Funded Feb 8, 2023

  I am writing to share the profound impact that our February Book Bingo program has had on our students, and to express our gratitude for your support. As you may know, 94% of our students come from marginalized backgrounds, and recent legislation has posed significant challenges in accessing crucial information about their heritage and history. Our Book Bingo initiative, a Black History Reading Challenge, has become a beacon of hope and learning in these circumstances.

  The February Book Bingo is not just a challenge; it is an engaging and transformative educational experience. The resources we received, including stickers, croc charms, and wristbands, have been instrumental in motivating our students to delve deeper into the works of Black authors, illustrators, and narrators. One specific project that stands out is a classroom discussion where students were encouraged to share their thoughts and insights from the books they read as part of the challenge. This led to a heartwarming exchange of ideas and a deeper understanding of diverse perspectives. The prizes they earn serve as tangible rewards for their efforts, encouraging them to explore further and engage with the material in meaningful ways.

  The excitement and enthusiasm were palpable when the students first saw the materials. Their eyes lit up with curiosity and eagerness, and it was evident that these resources would play a pivotal role in their educational journey. Many students expressed their delight in having an opportunity to participate in an activity that celebrated their culture and history. The positive atmosphere created by these materials has fostered a sense of belonging and acceptance among the students, reinforcing the idea that they are valued and appreciated members of our school community.

  With the success of the initial phase of the Book Bingo, we are eager to take the next steps in our educational journey. Our students are currently working on a project where they will create presentations about the authors and illustrators they have discovered through the challenge. This project will not only enhance their research skills but also encourage them to articulate their findings and thoughts confidently. We hope that by continuing these conversations beyond February, our students will feel empowered to embrace their identities and advocate for themselves and their communities.

  James Baldwin once said, "Not everything that is faced can be changed, but nothing can be changed until it is faced." Through this initiative, we aim to initiate conversations that extend well beyond the classroom and inspire lasting change.

  Thank you for your support and for helping us create an environment where every student feels seen, heard, valued, and safe.”

  With gratitude,

  Ms. McKinney

  This classroom project was brought to life by Black History Month Partners and 4 other donors.

• Totally New Titles 1

  Funded Mar 30, 2023

  Our students, much like any other group of eager learners, thrive on staying current with trends and finding connections within the stories they read. These novels were not just books; they are gateways to building reading stamina and expanding their vocabulary, essential skills that will serve them throughout their lives. As our students immersed themselves in these books, they developed the ability to read for extended periods, gradually increasing their reading stamina. Additionally, the rich language and varied contexts found within these novels provided students with the opportunity to encounter and learn new words, thereby enhancing their verbal and written communication skills.

  Our diverse student body deserves to see their lives, cultures, and experiences mirrored in the stories they read. It is my sincerest hope that, through these books, students will continue to see themselves reflected in the characters' struggles and triumphs, fostering a deeper connection to the narratives and a greater understanding of their own identities. Representation in literature is vital; it validates and celebrates the diversity of our student body.

  Your support in enhancing our library's collection with young adult fiction novels lasting has, and will continue to make a difference in the lives of our students. Together, we can cultivate an environment where reading is not just an activity but a cherished habit that enriches their academic and personal growth.

  Thank you for positively impacting our students' futures.

  Warm regards,”

  With gratitude,

  Ms. McKinney

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

• Bento Box Book Club I

  Funded Aug 2, 2023

  Thank you so much for helping me spread the love of literacy in a fun and captivating way. The students thoroughly enjoyed the mixture of reading and hands-on activities. The beauty of the Bento Box Book Club is that it supports diverse learning styles; and helps students discover the joy of reading at their own pace. This Socially Distant Book Club was way more than just a reading program; it was a movement to inspire and cultivate a lifelong love of literacy among our students. By fostering an environment where reading is interactive and enjoyable, we hope to continue making a lasting impact on our students' educational journeys.

  Thank you for your support and interest in helping us achieve this vision.”

  With gratitude,

  Ms. McKinney

  This classroom project was brought to life by Kleenex and one other donor.