Past projects 4
Upgrade from Mirrors to LEDs
Funded Dec 28, 2022Thanks to you my project to upgrade our class set of microscopes, from 1920s to 2020s technology, has been funded!
This means every one of my students will have access to appropriate technology for exploring the microscope world. Not everyday we give the gift of inspiration, and exploration, but today you did!”
With gratitude,
Ms. Zander
This classroom project was brought to life by Panda Cares.Ms. Zander's Classroom Levels Up
Funded Aug 28, 2022I named this project, "level up," because I felt that this is the year for both me and my classroom to thrive! It is year five for me, we've readjusted to life back in the classroom after 1.5 years online. I knew this year would be "go," time, and so far so good!
The label maker has helped me keep better track of what's in my many cabinets and drawers (science teacher here!) and lets my students identify which laptop is theirs when they inevitably get moved around.
Taking work home is a part of teacher life, but having my own laminator lets me be flexible about when I get this work done. Plus, laminators iconically are always broken, lol. Please see the picture of the photosynthesis game. The laminator helped me create this hands-on activity and the materials are durable enough that I can use them again next year, even after 5 relay-race-style uses!
I also included a few pictures of our pet seal, Bao, which you helped me purchase. The students suggested and voted on its name. Bao brings comfort to students throughout the day and has been loved so hard he's needed a couple of trips to the stuffed animal repair center, aka my sewing basket at home!
So far it's been a great year in Zander Science and I owe our success in part to you and our on going community of supporters. Thank you for helping me and my students feel seen and loved as we do our important work!”
With gratitude,
Ms. Zander
Refreshing Our Supplies
Funded Apr 7, 2022Thank you once again for your generous donation that funded my project at Chinook Middle School last spring. The markers, pencils, and more arrived in time for final projects last school year and continue to be used this year. All said, these materials have reached the creative hands and minds of about 250 students!
One thing I tell classes when we do work with shared materials, such as the markers, is that it is their job to take good care of them, because it's my job to ask our community for what we need, and the community in turn provides. They (usually) hear me out and take good care, and also have a sense that the world out there wants for them to have what they need. This is such an important message to send our youth as we prepare them for a future where they must work together to create shared abundance.
I hope you enjoy the pics of some of their creations, and know that I am reminded of your generosity every time I watch them draw--which is almost daily!”
With gratitude,
Ms. Zander
This classroom project was brought to life by The DonorsChoose community & an Anonymous Partner and one other donor.Creating a Beautiful Learning Environment
Funded Aug 9, 2021The work we did together to create a beautiful classroom space was a success! Learning is happening, students feel safe, and there is pride in our classroom, especially when I told them that the things around them were provided by their fan club. (Yes, I told them about you, and yes I called you their fan club!)
Other proof of our success is the fact that students come into the classroom not only during their class period, but before and after school and even "sneak," in when it's not their time. Not only students are drawn to our beautiful space, but staff as well! Whenever there is a meeting that I'm associated with, my classroom is volunteered as the location.
Last week I finally debuted the REAL scientist lab coats for the Scientists of the Week (nominated by peers), and students wore them with flare and pride. I ran them through the washing machine and they came through in great shape. Thank you for affording me to purchase such a high-quality product that will motivate students for weeks (and years?) to come!
Beauty matters and community matters. Thank you for giving me and my students both!”
With gratitude,
Ms. Zander