Past projects 12
Neurodiverse Narratives: Graphic Novels for Tween Mental Health
Funded Feb 13, 2025Oh wow!! What a wonderful surprise to see I’ll be able to add fantastic titles about neurodiversity to our school library. So many tweens are figuring themselves and others out, and graphic novels are some of the most impactful ways to provide mirrors and windows into neurodiverse experiences. These will fly off the shelves!!! Can’t wait!!!”
With gratitude,
Ms. Johnson
Listening Counts! Support Our Readers With Dyslexia and Others
Funded Dec 27, 2024Hurray! The headphones and labeling materials have arrived. I didn't even have a chance to label three sets before I had a teacher visit with three students who needed audiobook support with headphones!
Thanks to you and a parent volunteer, we were able to get our system ready for action in record time. In just the past week, we've loaned out 16 audiobooks and multiple headphone sets daily. It's been so great to support not only our students with documented dyslexia but also a newly arrived student from Afghanistan, who is supporting his English learning with audio as well as text. And because we have enough headphones, I've been able to support ANY student that wants to listen to an audiobook through our own catalog our through our free partnership with Libby through Seattle Public Libraries.
Students are engaging with story and excelling in their classwork with the accommodations that work best for them - thanks in HUGE part to you!!”
With gratitude,
Ms. Johnson
Vikings and Spies - Adventure Reads for Middle School Library
Funded Nov 6, 2024Thank you so much for funding some wonderful additions to our library collection several weeks ago. It's been enough time for me to state with confidence that students are LOVING the "Vikings and Spies" reads that you were generous enough to support.
We were able to purchase the entire series of The Vinland Saga, a popular manga that tracks Leif Erickson as he ventures across the Atlantic into what is now Newfoundland. His adventures really hit the mark for students who love history reads like Nathan Hale's Hazardous Tales or World War II epics, fantasy reads that delve into Norse mythology, and regular manga readers who love anything manga!
Students of this age also adore spies and espionage. Many of our 7th and 8th graders have already read titles like Unbreakable, The Rose Code, The Enigma Girls or Codetalker for our embedded book clubs that I co-teach with ELA classes. But our 6th graders are new to the world of Bletchley Park and it's been such a joy to book talk The Bletchley Riddle to them and have them report how wonderful it is and that they want "more books like that one." Ruta Sepetys and Steve Sheinkin titles are always reliable, and so it has been great to jump right in with recommendations of other titles by them to keep the reading joy going.
Thanks to you, students are still reading long form stories that matter and continuing our own reading traditions of adventure beyond the quick fixes of YouTubes and TikToks. Deep thrills over cheap thrills forever!”
With gratitude,
Ms. Johnson
Double the Joy: Library Books For All Readers
Funded Oct 7, 2024With extremely generous support of our local community (with a few matching funds as well), I am overjoyed to share that our wonderful library will get some AMAZING new titles for all of our students to enjoy.
I am actually quite tearful (joyful tears). We're in a tough budget season, which is always dangerous for libraries and librarians because they take dedication and dollars to keep vibrant and relevant and yet are often sacrified for "flashier" and "trendier" technologies and ideas.
When I think of the hundreds of dollars our wonderful Whitman community has poured into our children's reading lives, and the faith we all have that stories matter, that the written word can capture and change the hearts of our kids in ways that no other form of media can, I feel truly humbled and lucky to help steward that support and that faith into a program where all of our students can find a book that lights up their consciences and helps shape them into empathic future citizens of our community and the world.
You have our students' backs, and I'm so proud to be the messenger.”
With gratitude,
Ms. Johnson
This classroom project was brought to life by SONIC Foundation and 3 other donors.My Dog Ate My Library Book
Funded Aug 15, 2024Thank you for being our literary heroes and rescuing our library's beloved collection from the jaws of middle school chaos! With your generous donation, we can finally replace those books that were accidentally left on the field during a Pineapple Express event, became a new puppy's chew toy, or bravely soldiered through countless love-induced page flips. The students and we are beyond thrilled to have fresh, pristine copies of our favorite titles back on the shelves, ready to be loved (and hopefully not left out in the rain) all over again.
Your support means the world to us, not just because you're restocking our shelves, but because you're fueling young minds with the endless adventures and knowledge that books provide. Thanks to you, we can continue to nurture the next generation of voracious readers, while also perhaps inspiring a few to keep their books dry and away from overly enthusiastic puppies. From the bottom of our library-loving hearts, thank you for helping us turn the page to a new chapter of literary joy!”
With gratitude,
Ms. Johnson
This classroom project was brought to life by The Gates Foundation and 4 other donors.It's Teatime in the School Library
Funded Aug 27, 2024I just wanted to take a moment to send a huge, warm thank you for your incredible contributions to our community tea station in the library. Seriously, you guys are the best! Thanks to your generosity, our library is now the go-to hangout spot for students looking to chill out, sip some tea, and maybe even make a few new friends. Who knew that a little hot water and some leaves could work wonders for social and emotional well-being?
Your kindness has helped our library stay a cozy haven where students can kick back and relax amidst all the hustle and bustle of school life. The tea station has become a favorite spot for students to recharge, swap stories, crack open a book, and enjoy some much-needed downtime. We're so grateful for your support – you're helping us brew up a community that feels like home! Here's to all the good vibes and warm cups ahead. You're making a real difference, and we can't thank you enough!”
With gratitude,
Ms. Johnson
This classroom project was brought to life by The Gates Foundation and 7 other donors.Empathy in Conflict: Students Need Perspectives On Israel and Palestine
Funded Apr 27, 2024On behalf of the entire Whitman school community, I want to extend our heartfelt gratitude for your generous donation of library materials on one of the most saddening topics of the recent year. Your contributions are invaluable in fostering a deeper understanding of the complex and sensitive issues surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. By providing our students with access to such insightful and thought-provoking material, you are helping to cultivate a culture of empathy, critical thinking, and informed dialogue. These materials have already been serving as crucial resources for our students and educators, enabling them to explore the nuances of empathy and its role in conflict resolution.
Your support not only enriches our library but also empowers our students to become compassionate and informed global citizens. The lessons they will learn from "Empathy in Conflict" will inspire them to approach conflicts with a more empathetic and open-minded perspective, fostering a more peaceful and understanding world. Once again, thank you for your generosity and commitment to education. Your donation makes a significant difference in the lives of our students and the broader community.”
With gratitude,
Ms. Johnson
Cozy Up Our School Library
Funded Mar 29, 2024Y'all, these giant beanbags you so generously donated have been gamechangers!
Since the arrival of these cozy additions, our library has undergone a remarkable transformation. These "chill poofs" upgraded the aesthetics of the space (see photo of previous dog beds) and ensured we have an inviting and comfortable environment where students can immerse themselves in the joy of reading and relaxation.
One of the most noticeable effects of these beanbags has been the positive impact on reading habits among our students. With their soft and inviting texture, students are drawn to curl up with a good book, allowing them to delve deeper into the world of literature. The relaxed atmosphere encourages longer reading sessions, fostering a love for books and learning that extends beyond the classroom.
Moreover, the beanbags have become a popular spot for students to unwind and recharge during breaks or our open library times before school, at lunch, and after school. The comfort they provide allows students to de-stress and refocus, promoting mental well-being and enhancing their overall academic performance. Many students have expressed how much they appreciate having these cuddly homelike furniture options where they can reset, making the library a favorite destination during their free time.
Once again, thank you for your unwavering support and generosity. Your contribution has made a difference for our students' wellbeing and helped foster the library space as the welcoming heart of our school.”
With gratitude,
Ms. Johnson
Guys Read: Positive Mindset Books
Funded Feb 28, 2024I hope this letter finds you well and filled with the same warmth and gratitude that we feel here at Whitman. I'm writing to you today on behalf of our entire school community, to express our sincerest thanks for your generous support of our book project, "Guys Read."
Your commitment to fostering literacy and critical thinking among our older 8th grade boys will have a profound impact on our students and the culture of our school.
In a world where the allure of instant gratification often competes with the joys of diving into a good book, your investment in "Guys Read" has provided our students with a much-needed bridge—a bridge that spans the "YouTube" gap and leads to a realm of exploration, introspection, and growth. Through carefully curated literature that resonates with the diverse interests and experiences of our boys, we have cultivated a space where reading is not only encouraged but celebrated as an avenue for self-discovery and understanding.
One of the most rewarding aspects of the "Guys Read" project has been its ability to spark meaningful conversations and inspire critical thinking around the concept of masculinity. In a society where rigid stereotypes and toxic masculinity often prevail, your support has allowed us to offer our students alternative narratives—narratives that champion empathy, respect, and positive expressions of manhood. By engaging with characters who grapple with issues of identity, relationships, and personal growth, our boys are learning to navigate the complexities of their own lives with compassion and integrity.
Moreover, "Guys Read" is becoming a catalyst for building lasting, positive habits that extend beyond the realm of reading. Through discussions, activities, and reflections inspired by the books they read, our students are honing essential life skills—skills such as critical thinking, communication, and empathy—that will serve them well in their academic pursuits and future endeavors.
Please accept our heartfelt thanks for your generosity, vision, and commitment to making a difference in the lives of our students. Your investment in "Guys Read" will continue to yield dividends for years to come, as we nurture a generation of young men who are empowered to forge their own paths, embrace diversity, and make meaningful contributions to the world.”
With gratitude,
Ms. Johnson
Infuse Our Library With Black Joy
Funded Jan 31, 2024On behalf of Whitman Middle School, I am writing to express our deepest gratitude for your incredibly generous donation towards our special project celebrating Black Joy. Your contribution will have a profound impact on our students' education and emotional well-being, and we cannot thank you enough for your kindness and support.
Your donation will enable us to create a diverse collection of books that highlight the uplifting and healing aspects of the African-American experience. These books will serve as a valuable resource for our students, allowing them to explore and celebrate the richness of Black culture, history, and joy. By providing access to literature that celebrates Black Joy, we hope to empower our students and foster a sense of pride and belonging within our school community.
We believe that representation matters, and your donation will help us ensure that our library reflects the diversity of our student body. By featuring stories that celebrate Black Joy, we aim to inspire and uplift our students, promoting a positive and inclusive learning environment where every student feels valued and supported.
In addition to enriching our library collection, your donation will also allow us to organize special events and activities to further celebrate Black Joy within our school community. From author visits and book clubs to cultural workshops and performances, we are excited to create opportunities for our students to engage with and learn from the diverse voices and experiences within the African-American community.
Your generosity has truly made a difference, and we are profoundly grateful for your support. Thanks to your donation, we can provide our students with the resources and experiences they need to thrive academically, emotionally, and socially. Your commitment to education and diversity is truly inspiring, and we feel privileged to have you as a partner in our mission to nurture and empower the next generation of leaders.
Once again, thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your generous donation towards our special project celebrating Black Joy. Your kindness and generosity will leave a lasting impact on our school community, and we look forward to sharing the progress of this project with you in the months ahead.”
With gratitude,
Ms. Johnson
This classroom project was brought to life by Happy Planner.