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Our world has changed significantly in the last four years. Young people faced significant challenges, a long-lasting pandemic that asked of them physical isolation, loneliness, economic downturns, and de-globalization. Young people also used every single platform and space possible to passionately advocate for a better world for themselves and their communities. Through this, more and more people realize prioritizing mental health is a key to navigating global issues, leaning into hope and resilience, and building solutions that work for our most vulnerable populations. Mental Health Awareness Month has become an essential time to raise awareness, share accessible resources, and eliminate stigma and encourage people to reach out to support themselves and each other.

The theme for 2023’s Mental Health Awareness Month is "Hope and Resilience: Mental Health for All." This theme highlights how eager young people are to build a kinder and braver world, and how mental health affects us all no matter our backgrounds or experiences. 

Young people are a force of change, and we benefit from following their leadership as they demand safer, affirming, validating, and resource-rich spaces within which they can thrive. Born This Way Foundation, a nonprofit organization founded by Lady Gaga and her mother, Cynthia Germanotta, understands deeply the importance of working with and for young people through programs including the storytelling platform Channel Kindness, its Advisory Board made up of a global group of young leaders age 15-24, and its free peer support online mental health course, the Be There Certificate. 

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Created by Jack.org in partnership with Born This Way Foundation, the Be There Certificate is a free, self-paced learning experience designed to increase mental health literacy and provide the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to safely support a young person and anyone who may be struggling with their mental health. Young people helped create and inform the program, and it’s available in English, French, and Spanish. Using Be There’s 5 Golden Rules to support others (and a sixth golden rule to support self), the Be There Certificate provides a simple, actionable framework on how to recognize when someone might be struggling with their mental health, your role in supporting that person, and how to connect them to the help they deserve.

Using accessible resources like the Be There Certificate helps us show up with more compassion toward ourselves and for our communities. If we’ve learned anything these past few years, it’s that we need each other. 

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Starting in 2018, Born This Way Foundation has given more than $500,000 to teachers seeking mental health resources through DonorsChoose. In total, they’ve helped fund 2,300 requests for resources for public educators across the country, bringing us closer to a nation where teachers have all the tools they need to support their students’  needs.

Are you a teacher in need of resources to support your students’ mental health? Request what you need today.

Are you a donor looking to get mental health resources into classrooms? Check out these requests from teachers.

Arkansas teacher Mrs. Weaver needed to fill her art supply closet so that her Kindergarteners could express themselves through hands-on, engaging activities. She turned to DonorsChoose to request all the basics — glue sticks, oil pastels, crayons, pencil sharpeners, and more. Thea Foundation, an arts in education foundation, spotted that Mrs. Weaver’s school had recently been struck by a strong tornado and swooped in to fully fund her project. That same day, DonorsChoose staff ordered Mrs. Weaver’s resources and shipped them her way. Mrs. Weaver shared her gratitude:

“We are elated to be able to start using some of our favorite supplies again and even add some new ones to our closet! Without donors like you, we would be limited in what we had access to because of funding. Thanks for supporting my classroom!”

Expanding grassroots giving through DonorsChoose

When Thea Foundation was first founded in 2001, the team would drive to local art stores, buy supplies for teachers, and deliver those resources to Arkansas schools. This strategy allowed for a deep, hands-on connection between the foundation and local schools, but it wasn’t easily scalable. Thea Foundation sought a way to streamline their funding and fulfillment while making sure the resources they purchased reflected what teachers and students needed most.

In 2011, Thea Foundation began partnering with DonorsChoose and have since given more than $500,000 to art and music supply requests from Arkansas teachers. To retain that community-centric, hands-on ethos, the Foundation team hand-picks projects to support throughout the year, giving 50% of the total project cost through a self-serve funding account.

Fully funding projects to celebrate Arkansas teachers 

In 2023, Thea Foundation wanted to do something above and beyond for teachers, recognizing the incredible challenges educators and students have faced over the past few years. In a single day, they fully funded 70 Arkansas art projects, guaranteeing teachers quick success and letting teachers and students know that their community is rooting for their success.

"Thea Foundation is incredibly grateful for the service Donors Choose provides the teachers of Arkansas. Having access to such a powerful information-sharing and money-raising platform allows organizations like ours to put the money we raise from our concerned donor base directly into the hands of public school educators. Educators who find themselves continuously on the precipice of budget cuts or facing the hollow challenges of unfunded mandates. Our growth with DonorsChoose has produced a likely corollary, growth in teacher effectiveness, not just in K-12 art programs, but in a variety of classrooms across the entire state of Arkansas." 

—Nick Leopoulos, Thea Foundation Executive Director

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Want to learn more about how we can target funding to support schools in the communities you care about most? Reach out to us!

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What is it like being a teacher right now? The nationwide network of DonorsChoose public school teachers knows better than anyone. Over 2,600 DonorsChoose teachers helped us answer that question by sharing some of the challenges they face, and what keeps them coming back to the classroom every day. 

Classroom Costs On The Rise

This school year, teachers continued to reach into their own wallets to buy classroom supplies and resources for their students. On average, teachers have spent $687 of their own money in the last year to stock their classroom.

For a majority of teachers, spending has remained the same or increased since before the pandemic; 40% of teachers report they’re spending more on classroom supplies than they had prior to the pandemic, and 36% reported spending roughly the same. 

These rising costs combined with low teacher salaries in many communities have driven teachers to seek out supplemental income from second jobs. One in four teachers reported working 10 or more hours per week at an alternate job to support their teacher salary, and 8% of teachers reported working more than 20 extra hours a week at another job.

These challenges leave some teachers choosing between their passion for the profession and the reality of supporting themselves and their families. One Indiana first grade teacher shared, “Teaching is the only profession I ever saw myself having, but with the increasing demands and behaviors with a small salary, I find myself trying to decide if remaining a teacher long term is an obtainable goal.”

Teachers’ Needs Go Back To Basics

Teachers most need the basics — both for learning, and for student wellbeing. 58% of teachers reported needing basic supplies like paper, pencils, and cleaning supplies. The second most common need among teachers was personal items for students; 54% said they needed items like snacks, warm clothing, and hygiene items for their students.

The other thing teachers need? More teachers. Three in four teachers reported that their school was somewhat or severely understaffed.

Nearly all teachers reported being concerned about teacher mental health and burnout, which often stems from teacher, staff, and supply shortages. A Connecticut pre-K teacher shared, “Teacher and staff shortages across subject areas make it difficult to meet everyone’s needs and causes stress on those who try to pick up the extra workload, leading to burnout and more teachers leaving the profession.” 

Bigger Hurdles for Teachers of Color, Teachers at Historically Underfunded Schools

As part of our Equity Focus at DonorsChoose, we pay close attention to two groups of teachers who often overcome unique challenges in the profession: teachers of color, and teachers at “Equity Focus Schools” where 50% of students identify as Black, Latino, Native American, Pacific Islander, or multiracial, and 50% of student come from low-income households. Historically, Equity Focus Schools have been the most underfunded, and teachers of color continue to be underrepresented in the teaching profession. 

Teachers of color and teachers at Equity Focus Schools encountered even greater challenges than the average teacher who responded to the survey. Teachers of color report spending an average of $714 of their own money on school supplies, and teachers at Equity Focus Schools report spending an average of $718 — both higher than the average of $687. 

More teachers of color and teachers at Equity Focus Schools report that they’re spending more of their own money on school supplies post-pandemic.

Teachers of color reported more often than White teachers that they were working a second job to support their teacher salary, and teachers at Equity Focus Schools were more likely to be working a second job than teachers at other schools. 

For Many Teachers, Passion Prevails

When asked how they’d describe being a teacher this school year, the most common responses were “challenging,” “stressful”... and “rewarding.” Despite a number of obstacles that continue to make teaching a challenging profession, teachers remain committed to their calling. 59% of teachers reported they planned to continue teaching for 10 or more years. 

A high school teacher from Michigan shared, “I know that my passion for education is contagious, and it is the best gift that I can give.”

“Despite being overwhelmed, I love my job,” one Virginia elementary school teacher told us. “I love seeing my gems get excited when they have mastered content. It takes a SPECIAL person to be an educator!”

For many teachers, this joy keeps them going. According to an elementary school teacher from Utah, “I'm proud to be someone who gets to pour into this next generation and have an impact on the lives of our precious children. I love to see their joy in discovering something new! It's like nothing else when a child has worked so hard at something and the lights finally turn on for them. When they feel proud of their own accomplishments and celebrate those of their classmates, I know I'm doing something of value. It feels great!”

For so many teachers in the DonorsChoose community, having a project funded keeps money in their pockets and brings joy to their classrooms. A high school teacher from Wisconsin shared, “Having a project funded by DonorsChoose has been one of the highlights of this school year. I was amazed at how quickly a community member selected my proposal, and how easy the process was to complete. Not only did this experience boost my spirits, but my students were touched that a stranger went out of their way to help our class.”

According to a Louisiana middle school teacher, “It has been an expensive and stressful year with shortages in supplies. Getting help from DonorsChoose has helped relieve some of that stress.”

Even simple classroom improvements have students jumping for joy. “My most recent project for flexible seating got funded and I told the kids today,” shared a high school teacher from Kansas. “They were clapping their hands and jumping around, happy about getting some seats that feel comfortable for them.”

How Can You Help?

Interested in showing your appreciation for teachers? Start on DonorsChoose by making a donation to a teacher request that matters to you. You’ll hear directly from the teacher you help about how you’re impacting their students. And good news… your donations are tax deductible, and some donations are eligible for matches from our partners. 

Are you a teacher looking to stock your classroom? Get started on DonorsChoose!

Throughout the country, moments like Black History Month (February), Women's History Month (March), and this month’s Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month help teachers to celebrate their students’ identities. AAPI Heritage Month is a time to embrace and highlight the diversity, contributions, and individuals that make up the AAPI community. Here are a few projects from DonorsChoose teachers that celebrate this month in exciting ways!

Representation Matters 

Throughout her six years as a teacher, Ms. Ullman has used DonorsChoose to fill her classroom library with books that tell stories from different points of view. For AAPI Heritage Month, she set up the “Mirrors and Windows in Literature” project to add books that focus on AAPI stories and experiences to her shelves.  She hopes to:

• help her AAPI students to build confidence in their identities
• give students of other backgrounds the opportunity to read about cultures outside their own.

From biographies to historical fiction, from graphic novels to picture books, Ms. Ullman works with her students to find books that spark their imagination and make them hunger for more.

See Ms. Ullman’s project

Doing it for the Culture 

Music has a way of connecting us all. Through her “Ukuleles For Our Children Of The World” project, Mrs. Cooper is using a class set of ukuleles to help her students connect.

“The school has a large Pacific Islander population, and this resource could help in sharing their expertise and community's culture with all the kids” — Mrs. Cooper, Grades 3-5, WA

Many of Mrs. Cooper’s students already play the ukulele thanks to the traditional teaching they receive at home. By requesting a class set, she is hoping students can demonstrate their musical skills with their classmates while sharing what they love about their culture. 

See Mrs. Cooper’s project

Meeting your Idols

Asian American history is full of beauty and resilience. Through her Fashion and Asian-American Pride and Resilience project, Ms. Hinds invited TED Talk speaker Christina Chiu to share her personal experiences with Asian American racism along with insights from her career in fashion, writing, and advocacy.

"Ms. Chiu was inspiring and uplifting to students and faculty alike, who said they came away from her talk with a deeper understanding of racism as well as the power of finding your voice and inner beauty." — Ms. Hinds, Grades 9-12, NY

Thanks to virtual classroom visits, students in Ms. Hind’s library got to connect directly with Ms. Chiu and her powerful story.

See Ms. Hinds’ project

The members of Mr. Blomberg’s Asian Culture Club are just starting their lifelong journey into self-discovery and acceptance. They partnered with Mr. Blomberg to request tickets to the Boston Asian-American Film Festival, an event highlighting Asian filmmakers and actors covering themes like immigration, assimilation, acculturation, and discrimination.

 “While the films and food were beloved, it was the presence of a strong, artistic, self-realized Asian-American woman that brought the energy to the students." - Mr. Blomberg, Grades 9-12, MA

While at the festival, students enjoyed the food and the music, but it was the films and the filmmakers that made an impression: they even got to meet the festival’s creative producer and founding director!

See Mr. Blomberg’s project

Our teachers love celebrating their students. How are you celebrating identity in your classroom?

Be sure to follow us on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook for more project inspiration!

Chances are if you’re teaching something, other teachers have probably taught it too.That’s why we’re excited about cart copy, the new feature that lets you browse the site for inspiration and put that inspiration into action.

Here’s how it works:

1. If you see an item you like, just click! 

When you’re browsing other teachers’ projects, and you see the Makerspace starter kit of your dreams, just hit “Copy this cart.” You’ll be brought to a new draft project, with those exact same items ready for you to request.

2. Stay in control of your wishlist

Once you copy a teacher’s cart, you’re still in the driver’s seat. You can change quantities to reflect your student count and still personalize your wishlist the way you usually do to make sure the resources are exactly what you need. (Bonus: Unavailable items will be automatically excluded from your cart. Once you’re done shopping, you’ll still write your own description of how materials will make an impact for your students.

3. A quick search is all you need 

Now, it’s easier to find a cart to copy. If you go to the Search page, you can find more than 40,000 ideas from teachers. That’s a lot of inspiration, but what if you’re looking for something specific? You can filter projects by grade and subject using the checkboxes to the left of the search page, or search for any items you’re especially in the market for at the top.

Let’s be real. In a lot of ways, this year has been a tough one for teachers and their students. Many public schools across the country remain underfunded and understaffed. Often, students are still working through the learning loss and emotional impact of COVID-19. All while news stories about violence and the divisive political climate light up our screens. 

Despite these challenges, teachers show up for their students every day. As a teacher-founded nonprofit and the most trusted classroom project funding site, we at DonorsChoose know just how meaningful that dedication is. We’re all a little bit better because a teacher helped us along the way — but as Teacher Appreciation Week approaches, we wanted to know what helps them keep going, too. That’s why we asked teachers, “What makes you proud to teach?” Here’s just a few of the powerful answers we got back:

“It's like nothing else when a child has worked so hard at something and the lights finally turn on for them. When they feel proud of their own accomplishments and celebrate those of their classmates', I know I'm doing something of value.”

Call them “aha” or “light bulb” moments. We heard from so many teachers that it’s that incredible moment when a student just “gets it” and reaches an understanding about something in their learning that makes them beam with pride as an educator. 

“These kids have been through a lot. I teach K-5 special education and have had some of my students since before Covid started. We've been through a lot together and seeing how much they have overcome and how well they are doing fills my heart with joy.“

Without a doubt, the pandemic also came up a lot when we asked about what makes educators proud to teach. The level of challenges still being faced in classrooms due to COVID-19, and the continued resilience of students and teachers alike is more than enough to explain why. 

“Seeing my students succeed in any form. From the biggest successes like getting into the middle school they wanted, to the smallest success like finding that missing pencil.”

For a good number of educators, it was all about the small wins and big growing moments like these that made them proud to teach. That’s because DonorsChoose teachers know the little everyday lessons can add up to major achievements when it comes to changing young lives.

“The fact that I can help a student feel more comfortable with learning — to step out and try something new in a safe and nurturing environment. I may not see how it affects the course of their life, but I know for a season, I was able to tend to a child's emotional, physical, and intellectual health.”

Building community in the classroom and providing safe, inclusive environments for their kids was also a major contender from teachers. Teachers understand better than anyone that empowering their students with the tools and classroom space for taking big risks in their learning journeys is essential to great education.

“Having the opportunity to be part of a child's story. I love that my students hunt me down — even 30 years later — to let me know what they are up to!”

Young people will ultimately be the ones deciding the future and that importance was not lost on our educators. Being able to play a key role in a child’s story and the future world they’re growing up in was another big answer from our teachers. 

“For me it has been a journey of a lifetime to be a teacher and I made it this far. I am proud of all the teachers who put so much energy in being the best they can be and I include myself in that. I am proud of my students, no exceptions. We meet each other where we are and go forward.”

Many of our teachers also spoke of the immense pride they had in their fellow educators and how honored they were to be a part of a dedicated community of individuals who are doing so much for their students every day, despite constant challenges. We couldn’t agree more. 

“Despite being overwhelmed, I ❤️ my job. I ❤️ seeing my gems get excited when they have mastered content. It takes a SPECIAL person to be an educator!”

We wanted to end on the answer that likely won’t come as a surprise to you: Overwhelmingly, DonorsChoose teachers answered that the thing that made them most proud to teach? The kids. 

It may have been a tough year in many ways, but these teachers never stopped giving their all to help every student become their best selves. And that’s something to be tremendously proud of.  

The right little things can make the biggest difference. Anyone who reaches for the good scissors knows what we mean. Our Teacher Facebook Community shared their favorite classroom items under $40 that bring a million bucks’ worth of usefulness, relief, or ease to their school day. Take a look and find your new favorite deals!

1. Wireless Doorbell

The 2023 version of the classic school bell? A wireless doorbell! It’s a portable, pocket-sized attention-getter, transition time signal, and voice saver.

“This doorbell has over 50 different chimes that can be changed as the day goes on. The doorbell is wireless, so I will be able to carry the button with me around the classroom. When the students hear the sound, they know to freeze and follow further instructions. Having a device that is able to change sounds will help keep the students on their toes and will get their attention easily.” — Sounds in the Classroom, Mrs. Vernon, Grades PreK-2, North Carolina

2. Timers

This one’s for the easily distracted students, the overly engrossed learners…and the adults. Timers with visual and auditory indicators are a simple way to keep the class on track and reinforce time management skills for everyone.

“My students rely on visual supports to help them navigate our schedule each day. The large color display and audible reminder will help my students remain focused on their task. They will know exactly how long they have to complete an activity, and when they are permitted to take a break. The timers will also help the many adults in my classroom follow our daily schedule.” — No More Time's a Wastin', Mrs. E., Grades 3-5, Ohio

3. Sticky Notes

Vibrant, multi-size sticky notes are possibly the most versatile tool in the classroom. Students can use them as exit tickets, to self-submit answers, to share positive feedback on peer work samples, to flag unknown words in books, and so much more. Can you ever have too many sticky notes?

“We need a lot of vibrant post-its to re-energize our eager readers. Our second graders know that post-it's can be used to stop and jot character traits, predictions, empathetic comments, and when they notice "college words" in their books. ” — Sounds in the Classroom, Mrs. Vernon, Grades PreK-2, North Carolina

4. Pencils

We can’t say it better than this high school math teacher from our Teacher Facebook Community: “PENCILS! There are some battles I refuse to fight and pencils are on that list. Don't have a pencil? Here's one you can have. You need to borrow one every day? Fine! (If they're borrowing every day I make them return it at the end of the hour).”

Pencils in bulk. Just do it. There’s no reason to let a broken or missing pencil disrupt learning for more than the 30 seconds it would take to grab one from your stash.

5. Dry Erase Board

Sometimes all the technology in the world can’t replace the simplicity and ease of its old-school counterpart. Dry erase boards can help enhance cooperative learning, facilitate communication, serve as practice notepads — and save paper! No WiFi required.

“With a dry erase board for each student we will be able to practice writing letters, numbers and eventually words. Being able to carry a dry erase board from location to location allows for learning to continue in multiple areas. My kids love having items that are not common in their lives. Dry erase boards will provide them that. Using a dry erase board is more fun than sitting at a desk and writing on paper.” — Wipe It Off And Write It Again!, Mrs. Gordanier, Grades PreK-2, Missouri

6. Stickers

Mrs. O’Shea in Brooklyn has a very valid question for you: ​​”Wouldn't you love someone to acknowledge the hard work you do every day with a jazzy sticker or a pat on the back?” Teachers in our Facebook Community are reporting skyrocketing scores and student smiles from these timeless classroom incentives. And the options are endless!

“Shopping for stickers is mind blowing. There is such a wide variety of stickers for all ages, out there! There are glitter stickers, holiday stickers, goofy character stickers, angry bird sticker, gold star stickers, cartoon character stickers, Cat in the Hat stickers, reptile stickers, butterfly stickers, inspiring word stickers, just to name a few. Every kid loves to get a sticker and every kid needs a bit of motivation to do a great job on their homework assignments.” — Splendid Stickers for Spectacular Students!, Ms. O'Shea, Grades 3-5, New York

7. Velcro

Giving sticky notes a run for their money as the most versatile classroom tool: Velcro. Here’s a short list of ideas and one awesome project example that uses Velcro in at least four ways.

• Sensory tactiles (Velcro under the desk as a fidget tool!)
• Durable alternative to floor tape
• Name tags
• Anchor charts
• Workplace labels
• Communication boards
• Fine motor skill builders
• Hanging…anything!

8. Play-Doh

A learning tool disguised as a toy, what’s not to love? Play-Doh gives students a hands-on medium for any subject, any lesson. Or for those five minutes between lessons when everyone needs a brain break.

“Academically, my students can use Play-Doh in our literacy centers to identify letters, learn sight words, and towards the end of the year they can use Play-Doh to build sentences using the stamps. Play-Doh can be used in many different ways in our Math and Science centers too! My students can use Play-Doh during the free-choice time to be creative and use their imagination. No two students learn the same way, so the addition of Play-Doh in my classroom allows me one more method to teach my students.” — Squish, Mold, Roll...Where is the Play-Doh, Mrs. V?, Mrs. Vultaggio, Grades PreK-2, Michigan

9. Kwik Paint Sticks

By teacher definition: “Kwik Stix are like a mix between crayons and tempura paint. They make it easy for the child to paint with brilliant, bold colors but no mess. They also give lots of control which is great for a child with fine motor goals.” (Thanks, Ms. Doman!) 

A no-mess option for artistic expression in the classroom? We’ll take three.

“The Kwik Stix are a fun tool for painting, poster making and experimenting with color mixing. Some students don't like painting because it can often be messy and hard to control. These painting sticks make it easy to explore painting without the mess.” — Exploring Kwik Stix in the Painting Center, Ms. Brown, Grades 3-5, New York

10. Pop-its

You may not have heard of these but we guarantee your students have! Teachers in our Facebook Community have found tons of ways to turn these popular stress-relieving fidget toys into bona fide classroom aids for everything from math to reading to sensory tools.

“Pop It Fidget devices have a multitude of possibilities for use within a Kindergarten classroom. We would like to use the Pop Its to support our kiddos in all areas. In reading, we can use the Pop Its to count the number of sounds within a word and to help tap out our words. The Pop Its can also be used to make the shapes of letters. We can use the Pop Its in math to add, create a number and even subtract.” — Pop It Learning!, Ms. Ruder, Grades PreK-2, North Carolina

11. Over-the-ear Headphones

Dreaming of a quieter, more focused classroom? No judgment here – just a great idea for making it happen. Over-the-ear headphones are surprisingly inexpensive and give students independent access to all the audio resources they need.

“My students love using technology in the classroom to aid in their learning. There are a lot of great resources available, but most use audio. Headphones are required so as not to disrupt other students' learning, and allow for more technology to be used during independent work, which is done every day during guided reading. These headphones will also allow students to create projects that showcase their learning, because they have a microphone that they can talk into.” — We Can Hear It Now!, Mrs. Weaver, Grades 3-5, South Carolina

12. Flair Pens

The yellow #2 pencil will always be a staple, but pens have their place, too. Teachers for all grades find use in PaperMate Flair Pens (standard black and every color!). One teacher in our Facebook Community reports that after a year and a half of remote laptop learning, Flair pens helped motivate their 7th graders to use their writers notebooks. Little learners can benefit from pens, too!

“The advantage to having the pens instead of pencils, is to be able to see the child’s thinking. When children make mistakes using a pencil, they simply erase. I am able to see the thinking work that my students go through with pens instead of pencils. Cross-outs, attempts at solving a tricky problem, or the spelling of a tricky word can tell me so much about what my students already know and what they need to learn next. Pens enable us to teach our students and our school community that we value process as much as we do product.” — Writer’s Workshop: Beyond the Pencil, Mrs. Morris, Grades PreK-2, Texas

Take a look at the new projects teachers are working on to show their students that learning is the best kind of adventure, then start your own low-cost project!

“Graphic novels not only promote reading, but they also help to improve reading comprehension, vocabulary, and reading stamina.” — Mrs. Ureta, middle school teacher, Texas

Readers of all ages love graphic novels. Students get especially excited when they see a graphic novel on their reading lists! (What teacher doesn’t want that?) These ten graphic novels are the most requested by DonorsChoose teachers — check out these top picks and add them to your library!

1. Invisible: A Graphic Novel by Christina Diaz Gonzalez and Gabriela Epstein 

After finding themselves in trouble, five unique middle school students are forced to complete community service together. At first, they assume that they have nothing in common aside from being Spanish-speakers. When they meet a girl who needs help, they come to learn that they have more in common than they realized.

2. Frizzy by Claribel A. Ortega and Rose Bousamra

Frizzy is the story of a young Dominican girl who has a complicated relationship with her naturally curly hair. With the help of her best friend and her Tía Ruby, she begins a heartwarming journey of embracing herself and her curls.

3. I Survived Hurricane Katrina by Lauren Tarshis and Scott Dawson 

The third installment of the I Survived series, is about an eleven year old boy and his family that try to ride out Hurricane Katrina in their New Orleans home. This graphic novel series became popular for the way it combines historical facts with a truly captivating story.

4. Mary Anne's Bad Luck Mystery by Ann M. Martin and Cynthia Yuan Cheng

Mary Anne's Bad Luck Mystery is the seventeenth novel of the well loved The Baby-sitter’s Club books. In this story, Mary Anne ignores a chain letter and then experiences a series of unfortunate events along with her friends. When she discovers a new note, Mary Anne and her friends become determined to solve the mystery and find out who is behind the letters.

5. Miles Morales: Shock Waves by Justin A. Reynolds and Pablo Leon

This middle-grade graphic novel features one of Marvel’s most loved superheroes, Spider-man. As Miles Morales (aka Spider-man) navigates the balance of swinging through Brooklyn and being a regular kid, he also uncovers secrets that force him to go after some big threats. 

6. Moon Rising by Tui T. Sutherland and Mike Holmes 

Moon Rising is the 6th book in the #1 New York Times bestselling Wings of Fire series. This fantasy graphic novel hooks readers in with a mystical world full of dragons., prophecies, and special powers.

7. City of Dragons: The Awakening Storm by Jaimal Yogis and Vivian Truong

When Grace is on a school field trip, she comes across an old mysterious woman who gives her a dragon egg. After the dragon hatches, Grace and her friends have to protect it from sinister forces.

8. The Tryout: A Graphic Novel by Christina Soontornvat and Joanna Cacao

The Tryout is a touching graphic novel based on author Christina Soontornvat’s life in middle school. In this story, Christina and her best friend have to navigate trying out for the cheerleading squad as the only two students of color in their Texas school. 

‍9. Cat Kid Comic Club #4: Collaborations by Dav Pilkey

Naomi, Melvin, Poppy, Gilbert, Curly, and their siblings are thrilled to start making funny and original comics again. When these baby frogs work collaboratively, they learn that small things can have a big impact. 

‍10. PAWS: Mindy Makes Some Space by Nathan Fairbairn and Michele Assarasakorn 

Mindy and her best friends own a  booming dog walking business and things couldn’t be any better. But when Mindy experiences some growing pain at home and at school, she has to learn to let new people into her life.

Are you excited to get these graphic novels for your students? Create a DonorsChoose project and let our community help you get the resources you need!

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Coming on March 30: Every donation to DonorsChoose book projects on DonorsChoose will be doubled, while funds last. 

This is your chance to “put some time on the books” and  stock your shelves! The best way to take advantage of this special funding opportunity? Make sure your community knows about the awesome work you and your students do by sharing your project link! Teachers who take one of the 5-minute sharing actions below have a 89% success rate on DonorsChoose. (Seriously.) 

To help you give your projects an extra boost, our DonorsChoose team designed some resources to make sharing your project super simple, so the only question left is: 

Which action will you choose on March 30th?

Option A: All of my book-loving friends and followers will see my project link!

On Thursday morning, pick your favorite graphics from our collection and share at least twice on social media. You can mix & match your favorite platforms (i.e. 1 Facebook post + 1 TikTok), do a morning and evening post on the same platform, or post and re-share your own content (Insta feed + Insta story!). Wherever you tweet, post, snap, or share, make sure you include a link to your project!

Feeling extra excited about these graphics? You can create your own custom graphic using the Canva templates below:

• Instagram
• Facebook
• Twitter

Option B: I’m sending my loved ones with my project via text!

On Wednesday, use the template below as a guide to write about your students and  then , copy and paste the text (with your project link!) into a group text chat or an email with your favorite 3-5 bookworms. Wherever you send it — your starred group chat, that DM thread with your book club, your family email chain — make it super personal to their favorite teacher (you!).

Option C: I’m sharing my book project to the max!

This option is your best bet to #FillEveryShelf in your classroom: A way to let all the book fans and (self-proclaimed) literary critics in your network know about your project and the big match day. Complete these three steps together to give your project the momentum it needs:

1. Send a personalized email to one person who cares about you and your classroom, asking them if they would like to support your project and put books in the hands of students Include your project link!
2. Post your project on your favorite social media platform and Include your project link!‍
3. Send one group email or text to folks you know, asking them to help you spread the word about your project while there are doubled donations. Include your project link!
   

Not sure who to reach out to? Get some ideas here!

“There will be times when you walk into a room and no one there is quite like you until the day you begin to share your stories. And all at once … the world opens itself up a little wider to make some space for you.” —From The Day You Begin by Jacqueline Woodson

When we say books are magic, it’s not just a phrase to throw around. Books have the power to act as windows,  allowing us to see into worlds beyond our own — while just as easily mirroring our experience and reflecting and affirming our identities. DonorsChoose teachers know how essential this level of representation is to every classroom and student, not just for special months but all year-round. 

We pulled together a collection of our best reading lists made for diversifying your bookshelves, featuring stories by and about women and Black, Latino, LGBTQIA+, AAPI, Native American people —and beyond. They’re divided up by grade level for easy shopping. Enjoy!

19 Must-Have Books by Black Authors For Your Class Library

Explore this list: 19 Must-Have Books by Black Authors For Your Class Library

These are stories of Black joy, love, and life for all readers. Explore belonging with young readers in the lyrical The Day You Begin by Jacqueline Woodson, or dive into a haunting graphic novel in verse in Long Way Down: The Graphic Novel by Jason Reynolds. Or read the powerful American memoir written to the author’s teenage son in the bestseller Between the World and Me by Ta-Nehisi Coates. 

12 Must-Read Books That Celebrate Hispanic and Latino Voices

Explore this list: 12 Must-Read Books That Celebrate Hispanic and Latino Voices

You can join Alma on an adventure of learning about her name and her family history in Alma and How She Got Her Name by Juana Martinez-Neal, read the story of a pre-teen boy whose family is separated by U.S. immigration policies in the deeply honest Efrén Divided by Ernesto Cisneros. Or you can learn the history of four women fighting for freedom under Trujillo’s dictatorship in the Dominican Republic in In the Time of the Butterflies by Julia Alvarez. 

9 Must-Read Books That Celebrate the LGBTQIA+ Community

Explore this list: 9 Must-Read Books That Celebrate the LGBTQIA+ Community

Fill your shelves with Pride year-round. You can ride the subway with Julián and his Abuela on a story of self-discovery and acceptance in Julián Is a Mermaid by Jessica Love, read the coming-of-age story of a girl finding herself in the wake of a tornado in Ivy Aberdeen’s Letter to the World by Ashley Herring Blake, and join the sisters Camino and Yahaira Rios in the novel-in-verse about grief, loss, and love, Clap When You Land by Elizabeth Acevedo. 

Must-Read Asian American and Pacific Islander Books

Explore this list: Must-Read Asian American and Pacific Islander Books 

In this list, you’ll discover a lyrical story showcasing the lives of Muslim American women in Under My Hijab by Hena Khan, the moving family saga unfolding during the Japanese occupation of Korea in Pachinko by Min Jin Lee, and the Pulitzer-Prize winning tale of an American educated Franco-Vietnamese communist spy in The Sympathizer, a novel by Viet Thanh Nguyen. 

15 Books by Women Authors to Celebrate Women in History

Explore this list: 15 Books by Women Authors to Celebrate Women in History 

Readers of all genders can find a story to appreciate in these selections. Dig into world history with the beautifully-illustrated Little Dreamers: Visionary Women Around the World by Vashti Harrison, read the story of a young girl who must leave her home in Syria to the U.S. in Other Words for Home, by Jasmine Warga, or travel back to 1937 during the Harlem Renaissance in the American classic Their Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston. 

Native American Reads For Your Bookshelf

Explore this list: Native American Book List

Choose from 9 titles featuring a breadth of stories centering Native peoples’ voices and culture. Go on a journey of adoption and family identity in I Can Make this Promise by Christine Day, learn more about the history of boarding schools in Two Roads by Joseph Bruchac, or read the multi-generational tale all leading up to a California Powwow in There, There by Tommy Orange. 

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Teachers know the classroom should be a space where all students can find their mirrors and their windows. Through diversifying our reading with books like those on our lists above, we can all gain a more complete, more honest picture of the world. And that is pure magic. 

Want to see what books public school teachers are currently requesting? Find them here on DonorsChoose.

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This post was published in February 2020 and was updated in February 2023.

March is National Book Month, so what better time to uncover our teachers’ favorite books? Check out these five most requested books from each grade level, and learn why you should bring them into your home or classroom.

Grade PreK-2

Mrs. Norris’s goal is to give her students a book that “embodies the sense of love and unity we have in our classrooms, while also having beautiful and engaging artwork to inspire students." In her book Our Class is a Family, Shannon Olsen reminds students that classrooms are places where it’s safe to be yourself, okay to make mistakes, and be a friend to others. The top books on this list remind us all that kindness, self-esteem, and identity are at the heart of learning.

Our Class is a Family by Shannon Olsen
The Name Jar by Yangsook Choi
I Am Enough by Grace Byers
The Magical Yet by Angela DiTerlizzi
The Smart Cookie by Jory John

Grades 3-5

Mrs. Turner chose Wonder for her 25 students to practice creative and critical thinking. Wonder is a warm, uplifting story that stirs different emotions and teaches students about life, discovery, perseverance, and respect. “I picked this book for our book study because not only can we use it for reading strategies, but also for lifelong lessons.”

Wonder by R.J. Palacio
The Name Jar by Yangsook Choi
The Baby-sitters Club Graphic Novels by Ann M. Martin, adapted by Gale Galligan and Raina Telgemeier
Dog Man: The Supa Epic Collection by Dav Pilkey
The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate

Grades 6-8

A Newbery award-winning graphic novel, New Kid drops students into a new school where diversity is low and the struggle to fit in is real. Ms. Dempsey loves it because “the realism effortlessly pivots readers and teachers into unexpected and profound topics of conversation. The story may be heartbreakingly accurate as it explores topics such as class, race, microaggressions, and self-identity.”

New Kid by Jerry Craft
Brown Girl Dreaming by Jacqueline Woodson
Wonder by R.J. Palacio
The Stars Beneath Our Feet by David Barclay Moore
Ghost Boys by Jewell Parker Rhodes

Grades 9-12

The Hate U Give has been one of the most requested books on our site for several years. Teachers like Mr. Perkins uses this book to empower their students to discuss shared experiences and envision social change.“ This novel has so many key pieces that they struggle with each day. My hope is to not only find something they can relate with but to allow them to feel comfortable and empowered to share those struggles to empower each other.”

The Hate U Give by Angie Thomas
The Poet X by Elizabeth Acevedo
I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter by Erika L. Sánchez
Dear Martin by Nic Stone
They Called Us Enemy by George Takei

Teachers, today is the perfect day to get these books on your shelves! Create a project and bring these popular stories to your students.

If you want to help teachers put these books in students' hands, support a book project today!

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What was the first book that changed how you see the world? Of the millions of books requested by teachers on DonorsChoose over the last twenty years, these nine stand out for their impact on countless childhoods. And when teachers use them in the classroom, kids are still thrilled.

To create this list, we looked at the books that teachers have requested for their students most frequently and got the teacher skinny on what they consider “classics”.

1. Charlotte’s Web by E.B. White

It’s no coincidence that when you search for “books about friendship” on Google, Charlotte’s Web is the first result. The bond between Charlotte and Wilbur taught a lot of us about compassion, empathy, and selflessness. White writes for children without talking down to them, treating young kids as individuals capable of understanding deep emotional moments.

“[It’s] been amazing to see how excited they get about the story! I am sure we all got the chance to read this classic story about kindness and friendship and I am so excited to share this with my students for years to come!” - Ms. Burel, 2nd Grade, on Charlotte’s Web

2. Holes by Louis Sachar

The curse on Stanley Yelnats is only slightly less powerful than the hold Sachar’s book has had on readers for more than 20 years. At boys’ detention center Camp Green Lake, there’s only one goal: dig holes exactly five feet wide and five feet deep. With more questions than answers, Stanley and his fellow wards look to dig up the truth and change their own fates.

3. Number the Stars by Lois Lowry

Through the eyes of 10-year-old Annemarie, we experience the rescue of Danish Jews during World War II. This suspenseful, deeply human account is still must-read in classrooms across the country (along with Lowry’s other modern classic, The Giver). Lowry is the thoughtful, skilled writer you remember, but make no mistake — both books are riveting, unabashed page-turners.

4. Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing by Judy Blume

Few books have inspired more laugh-out-loud fun than this classic, beloved by grade-schoolers everywhere. The tale of Peter’s relationship with his brother, Fudge, helped countless of reluctant older siblings come to terms with the idea that the little monsters monopolizing our parent’s attention would not, in fact, be returning to the hospital but would instead be a constant presence of the rest of our lives.

5. A Wrinkle in Time by Madelene L’Engle

If all the books on this list have one thing in common, it’s that their writers understand that the best children’s literature can handle adult topics. Madelene L’Engle certainly doesn’t shy away from big themes and ideas: A Wrinkle in Time is about nothing less than a cosmic battle between good and evil. She takes a stand for individuality over conformity and thinking over mindlessness. Most of all, she tells every reader: “Be yourself.” A timeless message indeed.

6. The House on Mango Street by Sandra Cisneros

The House on Mango Street is a classic coming-of-age novel. Narrator Esperanza Cordero grabs you by the hand and wades with you through the waters of her life. Each vignette is an invitation to explore the rich cultural and historic contexts that shape our lives and, at times, collide with our desire to be known and seen as our truest, most authentic selves. It’s no coincidence that Esperanza means hope; this luminous swirl of autobiography and fiction leaves every reader with plenty.

7. Hatchet by Gary Paulsen

Brian Robeson survived a plane crash – with nothing but a hatchet and a windbreaker with which to face an unwelcoming wilderness. Such begins an epic tale of survival, family, and discovery that has given decades of young readers a taste for adventure and gratitude for home.

8. Frindle by Andrew Clements

What happens when a kid invents a new word, his classmates love it, and his teacher hates it? Meet Nick Allen, mastermind behind ‘frindle’ whose curiosity and well-meaning experiment with words takes on wildly unexpected consequences. Clements creates a one-of-a-kind student-teacher dynamic with a twist ending that will forever bind clever, uncontainable students and the teachers who stand by them.

9. Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry by Mildred D. Taylor

An unforgettable read, Roll of Thunder follows the Logan family as they navigate Depression-era Mississippi. Taylor manages to fill the pages with laughter, grade-school high-jinks, and the comfort of a close-knit family without undermining the racism and turbulent national history that permeate the lives of her characters. Now more than ever, we need this big-hearted book.

Of course, we know this list is far from comprehensive — and we want to hear from you! What was your favorite as a kid? Let us know on Twitter, Facebook, or Instagram!

Help give the next generation of kids access to life-changing books! Support a classroom book project today.

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