Past projects 2
We've Got the Power!
Funded Apr 8, 2022Thank you so much for your donations to our "We've Got the Power!" Project. The donated power strips have helped to bridge the return to school from the virtual environment for many of my students. The expectation of working on a computer while in the school building was an adjustment for many of them, but knowing that they could charge their Chromebooks right at their seats without having to move around the room or let it sit and charge in a charging station has given them the flexibility to grow. Several students have approached me and said that mine is the only classroom where they know 100% that they'll be able to charge their computers, and that is down to your donations.
From a teacher perspective, thank you for helping me to build a system in which my students can be self-sufficient. The greatest feeling is when you can stand back and watch students manage themselves, access the resources they need on their own, and flourish without needing constant check-ins with their teacher. No longer do they ask, "Miss, where can I plug in my laptop? Where can I charge my headphones? Can I plug in my phone behind your desk?" Now, all of the power they need is at their fingertips, both literally and figuratively.”
With gratitude,
Ms. Vezzosi-Bickel
This classroom project was brought to life by The DonorsChoose community & an Anonymous Partner and 3 other donors.Classroom Library
Funded Dec 21, 2018There is a misconception (one that I'm sure you've heard before) that today's teens don't read. Since your generous gift, my students have proven this idea false. Between the books that you donated and the books given by members of my personal community, we have created a library of over 200 titles for students to explore. The books gifted by you, however, hold a special place in our library story. Until the project was funded, only a few students ventured into the library to borrow books. Donors Choose gave us the opportunity to request books that the students actually WANTED to read. Once these books arrived, they were all off the shelves before the day ended. Then, something unexpected and wonderful happened. The students who borrowed your books kept coming back. They read sequels, then ventured further into the genre, then beyond into poetry, historical fiction, drama, and the list goes on. They are finding joy in reading, and are hungry for more.
On a personal note, this library has had a very positive impact on my relationships with my students. The students are downright shocked when I tell them that they are allowed to take the books home for as long as they want them. It is rare in a district like ours for students to be allowed to bring school materials out of the classroom - the budget doesn't allow for them to be replaced, so schools don't take the risk. But because this is a private, donated collection, I can be generous. I can show the students that I trust them with something precious like a library book. And if I can trust them, they can trust me.
So thank you for bringing joy to me and my students, and for allowing me to extend opportunities for them to grow and thrive.”
With gratitude,
Ms. Vezzosi-Bickel