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As a Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) educator with a focus on video game design, I believe we need to redefine, to reimagine, what we mean by STEM education – and it’s my mission to give younger generations of marginalized students the necessary tools they need to navigate the obstacles and discrimination they encounter.

I  was a young girl in Mississippi when a teacher first made me aware that I  would face obstacles because of my identity. I told him that my dream was to  work for Disney. “Ms. Wallace” he cautioned, “Black people don’t work at  Disney…” Harsh as it sounded, I recognized that this respected Black man was  giving me advice born of generations of finding our path in society where the  deck was stacked against us. Thankfully, I found my way around those  obstacles and into the classroom, where I practice — and preach — three ways to enhance inclusivity in STEM classrooms.

Building on a Legacy of Black American Educators

American history has frequently overlooked the substantial contributions of Black Americans within STEM fields. Building upon the legacy of STEM evangelists George Washington Carver and Booker T. Washington, the ethos of most Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) incorporates STEM education at its core. These institutions are designed for practical problem-solving, addressing real-world issues that resonate within the Black American community. This approach encompasses a broad spectrum, including mechanics, agriculture, and engineering, reflecting a commitment to addressing the pressing challenges that matter in the lived experiences of Black Americans.

1. Define STEM as a Problem-Based Learning (PBL) approach to solving real-world challenges. STEM is everything. It’s not memorizing individual academic subjects for testing. STEM encourages students to employ a full range of skills in hands-on ways. Before I returned to Jackson to teach, I studied 3D modeling, interactive media, web and design, and worked as a User Experience and Game designer. I bring all that to my STEM classes.
2. Help students find a real-world, local issue in their community that needs fixing. That will show them there is real value in what they can visualize and create, and ensure students are truly engaged. We’ve done that by participating in Samsung Solve for Tomorrow competitions, creating solutions to failing water supply infrastructure and food insecurity, and tackling green spaces in our local community. I’m proud to share that my students’ solutions have received both State Winner and National Finalist recognition.
3. Representation matters. Students who see people who look like themselves in positions of trust and authority can envision their own career prospects more easily. Stung as I was by having my Disney dreams discouraged, I still had the examples of success through my educator mother – along with unsung STEM heroes Dr. Carver, Dr. Washington, Benjamin Banneker, Garrett Morgan, Katherine Johnson, Dorothy Vaughan, Mary Jackson, and many more.

Resources also matter, especially in schools that experience systemic underfunding. That’s why I’m grateful for opportunities to supplement our school’s resources with technology from competitions like Solve for Tomorrow, and the generous support of contributors to DonorsChoose.

Now that I’m teaching in my home state of Mississippi after pursuing design studies at the Savannah College of Art and Design and gaining experience in web and UI design in Atlanta, I find renewed energy in supporting the aspirations of next-gen learners of color. In doing so, I not only uplift others but also honor my own dreams. As I glance in the mirror, I often find myself singing along to my favorite Disney song, "Reflection" from Mulan.

Black excellence has never been confined to a single month — especially when it comes to education. At DonorsChoose, we see the year-round difference that Black educators make in their classrooms. And besides being terrific educators, Black teachers are also activists, community leaders, agents of change, and so much more. This February, get to know 5 of the many amazing Black educators on DonorsChoose who exemplify this in their communities. 

The Awesomely Approachable Advocator: Malik Holley-Ames

To Mr. Holley-Ames, connecting with his students on a real level is critical‚— and the data agrees. The graduation rate among Black students increases by 33% if they have just one Black teacher between third and fifth grade. “As a young Black male teacher, I have a lot in common with my students,” he says, “... my students have a unique level of trust in me because we can relate to each other.” But Mr. Holley-Ames also goes above and beyond to create a safe space for all his students, so that they know their potential is limitless. 

As he puts it, “I want my students to have confidence in themselves. Even if they think an answer is wrong, I want them to still share it. There are no dumb questions in my class. The fear of being wrong can hold you back … I know that if they can be fearless in their learning, they’ll be able to achieve anything.”

The Legacy Leaving Lessonmaker: Emmanuela Louis

With 25 years of teaching under her belt, Ms. Louis knows education and helping students grow into the best version of themselves means teaching and supporting beyond just her lesson plans. As a result, she has left an iconic mark on so many of her students across the decades.

As Ms. Louis told us, “I have the ability to inspire and motivate my students through love. I believe in teaching the whole child. I support more than their academic needs, but their social emotional needs as well. Many of my students come back to my school and look for me. They invite me to their sweet 16's, weddings, and graduations.” 

The Compassionate Community Creator: Katrice Dixon

Dedicated math-teacher and all-around relationship-builder, Ms. Dixon knows just what it takes to inspire not only her students but whole communities. In fact, her and her class once led a school-wide effort to provide hard-to-get resources like Lysol wipes during the pandemic to her school and nearby community.  

Ms. Dixon’s advice to other Black teachers? “The students need you, the teachers need you, the community needs you. Not just to be in the building but to walk in excellence, to be the change you wish to see. To bring all of your richness in culture, pedagogy, style and swag, too. Being an educator is the richest career in the world because we are the creators and the real influencers of the world. It all starts with us so even on the tough days go in and thrive.”

The Bighearted-Bridgemaker: Denise Lopez-Gill

This educator doesn’t just motivate her students, she motivates everyone around her. From donating DonorsChoose-funded legos resources to her school’s STEM room to training her fellow colleagues on how to post their own amazing projects, Mrs. Gill is the definition of generosity and sharing the wealth. 

Speaking of, the message she’d like to share to other Black educators out there is this: “Stay the course and inspire your students to see greatness in themselves. Teach them how to identify their strengths and work on their goals. Let them know that things get hard for everyone but they have people pushing for them.” 

The Changemaking-Champion: Demetria Richardson

With another 25 years of teaching experience, Mrs. Richardson isn’t unrealistic about the challenges that exist for her students, but she absolutely knows how to push for progress in new and fresh ways. She even has helped inspire legislation in her state of Virginia that supports Computer Science. This is just one example of the ways Mrs. Richardson sees the big picture in being a teacher. 

In her words, “We know that school is so much more than just a building and so much happens inside than just teaching. ALL of us provide our children with something and we might not know what that something is right now, but know that each one of you is where you are supposed to be. This work is not easy, but stay the course because you are needed.”  

Black teachers have always been instrumental in American history. But knowing all the creative, thoughtful, student-centered, light-bulbs-just-appeared, idea-sparking, projects we’ve seen already come from teachers on the DonorsChoose site alone, we know that Black educators are instrumental in shaping the future too. We know with the right resources and support, Black teachers and their students will achieve their dreams and help create a more equitable future.

‍Looking to directly support Black teachers and students? Check out these DonorsChoose projects.

Can we huddle real quick? Since a lot of us have just cheered on our favorite college teams, we wanted to spotlight one of our favorite dream teams: DonorsChoose and the College Football Playoff (CFP) Foundation!

Year after year, the CFP Foundation has helped us ensure that classroom needs are met across the country through their Extra Yard for Teachers platform. Since this year marks our partnership’s 10 year anniversary, we couldn’t help but replay a few key achievements over the years. Let’s roll the tape back… or, you know, scroll down the page!

A Winning Lineup for Education

So how did this partnership come to be? The CFP Foundation elevates the teaching profession by implementing and supporting activities across four main areas: resources, recognition, recruitment and professional development. Its community outreach arm Extra Yard for Teachers has become the largest sports entity dedicated to supporting teachers. 

Classroom Impact: A Top 10 Highlight Reel

For everyone keeping score at home, that’s 10 strong years of partnership between the CFP Foundation and DonorsChoose — with CFPF investing $10.8 million, impacting tens of thousands of teachers and millions of students. And there are so many meaningful moments that got us here that’s worth a replay, including: 

10: A WINNING PLAY FOUR YEARS RUNNING
The annual Big Day for Teachers and Extra Yard for Teachers Week, both of which have built momentum across our nation’s college football community to celebrate teachers every September.

9: 2016 REPLAY FROM ARIZONA

In the lead up to the 2016 Championship Game in Phoenix, College Football Playoff Foundation and the Phoenix Host Committee fully funded all 734 live projects in Arizona in a single instant.

8: AN ANNUAL HIGHLIGHT
Each September, universities, conferences, bowl games, ESPN, and education supporters across the country honor and recognize great teachers during the 8-day celebration, Extra Yards for Teachers, with public recognition and DonorsChoose gift cards.

7: 2021 BIG 12 REPLAY
The Big 12 Conference and College Football Playoff Foundation instantly brought to life project requests across ten cities with schools in the Big 12 Conference.

6: BIG WINS FROM BIG ASSISTS

The CFP Foundation rallies their other corporate partners, including Dr Pepper, Eckrich, and Cheez-It to support the work of DonorsChoose teachers everywhere. 

5: 2023 REPLAY FROM THE MIDWEST
Cheez-It and CFP Foundation team up on the Big Day For Teachers to fund 253 DonorsChoose projects from 198 teachers across 103 schools in Illinois and Michigan — not to mention the 437 classroom dreams they brought to life in Orlando, Florida on Championship game day!

4: 2019 COTTON BOWL REPLAY
The Cotton Bowl Foundation and CFP Foundation surprised 200 teachers with $500 DonorsChoose gift codes to support schools impacted by tornadoes that hit Dallas that year. 

3: 2021 REPLAY FROM MIAMI

As part of the College Football Playoff Champ Week Funding, ESPN funded 126 Pe-K-12 projects in Miami Dade, Broward and Palm Beach Counties.

2: 2022 REPLAY FROM LOS ANGELES

CFP Foundation fully funded 81 mental health projects from teachers at historically underfunded schools who’d never before received funding through DonorsChoose.

1: TODAY’S ON-FIELD HIGHLIGHT
The $1 Million Challenge for Teachers returned for the 2023-2024 college football season! 

College Football Playoff, with their sponsor Eckrich, is inviting nominated teachers onto the field at some of this season’s biggest matchups. These lucky teachers, randomly selected from the entries, had a chance to win up to $1 million dollars in grants to fund local schools. 

Teachers: The real MVPs 

Whether it’s football playoffs or funding projects, we all know one thing for sure: Our teachers and their bright learners are the real MVPs. Every day, educators are the ones making sure their classrooms have what they need to be a thriving playing field for ALL students — we’re just glad to have the community and partners to help them achieve it. 

Learn more about CFP Foundation and the Extra Yard for Teachers.

Social impact storytelling is the fastest way to reach peoples’ hearts, but when you’re empowering so many people who go on to achieve so much, finding the perfect story can be like finding a needle in a haystack. And on social media, where authenticity is the name of the game, making sure that bite-sized message truly reflects the communities you’re serving is critical to success.

Through their partnership with education nonprofit DonorsChoose, LOFT was able to do just that. By passing the mic to the teachers they supported, LOFT shared inspiring stories of inclusive classrooms year round — all while helping students get the resources they need to learn and grow. In addition to blowing past their fundraising goals, LOFT got some high praise from their community!

“This just made my day! Thank you so much for supporting teachers. I can’t wait to shop!”

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The Challenge: Highlight LOFT’s dedication to inclusive classrooms through authentic storytelling

Uplifting and supporting America’s teacher community has always been at the heart of the LOFT brand. As part of their commitment to educators, LOFT hosts an annual back-to-school point of sale campaign, where donated funds directly support public school teachers through nonprofit crowdfunding platform DonorsChoose. 

For the 2022–23 school year, LOFT wanted to tell rich stories on their primary social platform, Instagram, and give teachers the opportunity to share their own perspectives. LOFT wanted to go beyond the resources teachers requested to uncover how teachers are thinking about building inclusive classrooms.

In alignment with their overall messaging plans, LOFT selected four key moments to invest in storytelling: Black History Month, Women’s History Month, Earth Month, and Teacher Appreciation Week. To make sure each of those storytelling moments felt authentic and relevant, LOFT needed to find a group of engaged and diverse educators who would be excited to celebrate their classrooms with LOFT — even with their busy teacher schedules!

Our Approach: Inspire a diverse group of educators to partner with LOFT through targeted classroom support

After LOFT wrapped their 2022 point of sale campaign, they launched a series of match offers and funding drops, supporting public school teachers’ requests for classroom resources across the country. DonorsChoose gave teachers the chance to be featured in storytelling opportunities guaranteeing that any teacher LOFT reached out to would already be topped up with gratitude! 

Teachers who raised their hands answered a brief survey about their classrooms and teaching, and we’re outfitted in LOFT clothing as a thank you for their time.

The results: Dozens of teacher stories and thousands of supported classrooms

Over the course of the year, LOFT successfully partnered with more than a dozen teachers of diverse backgrounds to hear how they bring learning to their students, and how they’re making their classrooms more inclusive. In addition to supporting the resources teachers need, LOFT showed the public powerful representation of our country’s diverse teacher workforce and the learning they help students achieve. Here are a few of our favorite features:

Other teachers were delighted to see LOFT celebrating education, inspiring responses like “Wow!! This is so sweet!! Thank you so much! I’m wearing my LOFT jeans today!” and “I am so grateful for this!! Thank you so incredibly much!! I am a die hard LOFT lover and I am so excited!”

During the back to school and holiday seasons, LOFT exceeded their fundraising goal, increasing their fundraising from the year prior by 5X, and raising nearly $1 million dollars for classrooms across the country. Over the course of the year, they helped fund 4,700 projects from 3,400 schools — the majority of which are historically underfunded and within 20 miles of LOFT stores.

We’re so grateful to our partners at LOFT for their ongoing support for America’s public school classrooms!

Public schools are not created equal. If passing news headlines, ballot measures in your community, or conversations with friends and colleagues have left you wondering what’s going on with inequity in our nation’s school system, read on. Here’s your Equity in Education primer – and what you can do to make a difference.

What is Equity?

Let’s be sure we’re all starting with the same definition:

eq·​ui·​ty justice according to natural law or right; specifically: freedom from bias or favoritism

In other words, equity is an even playing field for everyone.

What Does Equity in Education Mean?

Equity in education means that all teachers and all students have access to the same school supplies that their peers do.

Where a kid lives shouldn’t affect how likely it is that their library has a full set of up-to-date history books, a working computer, and enough paper and pencils to last the school year.

Through extensive research, the team at DonorsChoose developed two criteria to identify schools most likely to have below-average access to resources (we call these Equity Focus Schools): 

1. At least 50% of students are Black, Latino, Native American, Pacific Islander, or multiracial and
2. At least 50% of students qualify for free or reduced price lunch, the standard measure for school economic need.

What Creates Inequity in Education?

Schools across the country vary greatly in their ability to provide adequate resources for teachers and students. Some of this is entrenched in decades of complicated legislation, some of this is due to deep-rooted economic disparity – and all of it is unfair to students and their teachers.

$23 Billion funding gap

Segregation (racial and economic) very much exists.

And segregation
+ gerrymandered school district boundaries
+ overallocation of resources to districts with fewer students
= major inequities in funding.

It’s because of these factors that school districts serving mostly students of color get $23 billion less in state and local funding each year — in other words, $2,266 less per student compared to school districts with mostly White students. When we translate that stat from dollars to supplies and experiences, we get a profound deficit in exposure, access, and empowerment that affects students far into their college and career paths.

Teacher out-of-pocket spending

For every $100 of their own money a teacher serving mostly White students spends, a teacher serving mostly students of color spends $131. This on-average 31% difference means teachers serving mostly students of color very likely get access to fewer resources from their schools. Out-of-pocket spending is one big reason teachers are leaving the profession at alarming rates, decreasing the number of qualified and experienced teachers in classrooms nationwide.

What Are the Effects of Inequity in Education?

Inequity in our educational system puts students at an unfair disadvantage for opportunities throughout the rest of their lives, at no fault of their own.

Insufficient Access to Resources‍

Right now, there are over 50,000 projects from teachers at Equity Focus schools, requesting not only basic supplies, but the educational experiences they dream of giving their students that their school cannot provide. The tablets and robotics kits and class sets of new books that come standard in well-funded schools are DonorsChoose-dependent dreams for teachers in Equity Focus Schools. 

Opportunity Gap‍

Race and economic opportunity are intrinsically linked. Insufficient funding for schools serving mostly students of color (and the resulting lack of exposure and experience from a young age) plays a major role in limiting opportunities and affecting outcomes. For example, studies show that in the U.S., Black and Native American children are less likely to rise above their family's economic status than white children.‍

The importance of students seeing themselves in their teachers‍

Girls who attend high schools with a higher number of female STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) teachers are 19% more likely to graduate from college with a science or math major. Yet women are three times less likely to teach math, and two-and-a-half times less likely to teach science. Female students need female STEM teachers!The dropout rate among black students decreases by 33% if they have just one

Black teacher between third and fifth grade. Black students need Black teachers! All students need teachers in whom they can see their own futures, successes, and identities. In fact, DonorsChoose has seen a 117% increase in classroom projects requesting resources for students to "see themselves."

How can you support racial equity in schools?

When the Time Comes — Vote!‍

Pay close attention to the legislative measures on your local, state, and federal ballots. You have a voice in these matters – use it to speak up for students and teachers!

‍Support an Equity Focus School on DonorsChoose

Make a donation to a classroom where it can make the biggest difference. Pick one (or two or ten) requests from Equity Focus Schools and help fund the supplies, experiences, and dream-big classroom enhancements that will begin to even out the playing field for all students.

‍Learn as much as you can‍

Organizations like Racial Equity Tools provide curated tools, tips, and ideas for people who want to increase their understanding and to help those working for racial justice at every level. If you’re a teacher or education leader looking to bring more diversity, empathy, and empathy to your school community, Learning for Justice has some great professional development resources.

Learn more about how our Equity Focus empowers our community to make a difference by going to donorschoose.org/equity-focus.

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‍What is a promo code?

When entered during checkout, DonorsChoose promo codes instantly multiply donations. For example, sometimes a promo code unlocks doubled donations (a $20 gift becomes $40). Promo code funding comes from the DonorsChoose community, generous corporate and foundation partners, or superstar individual donors who want to support classrooms.

Keep in mind: ‍

💬 Promo codes give teachers a great reason to reach out to their communities for support.

⏰ Every promo code expires, so sharing and using a promo code is a time-sensitive thing!

✅ There’s a special spot for donors to enter codes at checkout. (A step-by-step tutorial is available here!)

What makes promo codes so great?

Donors love promo codes because it increases the impact of their gift (bonus money!). Teachers love promo codes because they help fund projects extra fast. Promo codes can be shared widely and make an immediate difference for teachers and students. 

Now that I have one, what do I do with it?

Share it!! Text or email the code to your friends and family, post it on your Instagram, do whatever you do to spread the word. Make sure to send the link to your project, too!

Here’s an easy message to send:

Fundraising for your project can feel overwhelming, but a promo code gives you a great reason to reach out to your supporters. We know from years of promo code experience that donors LOVE watching even their smallest gifts multiply instantly.

If you have a project live, right now keep an eye on your inbox and get ready to share! Promo codes drop throughout the year — you (and your donors!) won’t want to miss the chance for a boost.

‍Looking for more ways to share your project? Check out this blog post!

Teachers know: Students thrive when they can see themselves in their learning materials. Libraries come to life when the shelves are filled with diverse stories, characters, and authors. Black students especially deserve to see themselves in stories beyond those of suffering; stories by and about Black folks filled with joy, love, and magic are essential for every classroom.

We broke down the data and these are the most popular books by Black authors that teachers request on DonorsChoose. Plus, we added a couple of buzzy new releases to add to your list too. Check out these top picks and find your students’ (or your own!) next read.

Elementary Books by Black Authors

Stuntboy, in the Meantime, by Jason Reynolds

For fans of Jason Reynold’s 2017 Long Way Down, check out his 2021 release: Stuntboy, in the Meantime. This entertaining, action-packed graphic novel, introduces middle-grade readers to Portico Reeves (aka Stuntboy), a Black fourth-grader and superhero. This story follows Portico as he navigates bullying and family troubles, all while addressing big and important feelings of worry, anxiety, and fear in positive ways.

“The pages are filled with beautiful and engaging art, a plot line like they have never seen before and, no doubt, a story that will become a favorite for all of us. The story features a main character who lives in an apartment building full of intriguing characters and a boy who is truly a superhero!” —Mrs. Mannle, Class Set of Stuntboy, In The Meantime

Hair Love, by Matthew A. Cherry 

Hair Love tells the story of a Black father who jumps in to style his daughters hair when her mom is away. This heartwarming depiction of a father-daughter relationship was also turned into a 7 minute animated film.

Skin Like Mine, by Latisha M. Perry 

Skin Like Mine celebrates the beauty of diverse skin tones. Already love Skin Like Mine? Check out another Latisha M. Perry teacher fave from the Kids Like Mine series, Hair Like Mine.

Sulwe, by Lupita Nyong'o

Sulwe, written by actress Lupita Nyong'o, tells the story of a young girl who wishes her skin were lighter. The 2019 children’s book explores colorism and, ultimately, how to love yourself.

“Sulwe is a book that promotes self-love, and acceptance, while helping children to be proud of who they are and realize they're just as beautiful outside as they are within. This book is a sweet take on ways young children can be helped to confront colorism.” —Mr. Romelle, Self Love

Alvin Ailey, by Andrea Davis Pinkney

Alvin Ailey broke ground when he founded a Black modern dance company in 1958. This illustrated children’s book shows off Ailey’s childhood, choreography, and founding of the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater.

The Day You Begin, by Jacqueline Woodson

In her New York Times bestseller, Jacqueline Woodson explores difference and belonging in The Day You Begin. Lyrical and beautifully illustrated, the book speaks directly to young children and can help foster community within a class.

Life in Motion: Unlikely Ballerina Young Readers Edition, by Misty Copeland

Life in Motion: Unlikely Ballerina depicts the life of Misty Copeland, the first Black female principal ballerina in the American Ballet Theatre. This young readers edition is a great opportunity for students 3rd - 7th grade to learn about her journey to becoming a history making ballerina.

Middle School Books by Black Authors

Clean Getaway, by Nic Stone

Nic Stone’s first novel Dear Martin has already made her a staple in many high school classrooms. Her first middle grade novel, Clean Getaway, follows an 11-year-old on a road trip with his grandmother.

“Clean Getaway by Nic Stone will be the foundation of our project, allowing us to build an understanding of civil rights history through a character that our students can see themselves in.” —Ms. Tuttell, The Pride of Southeast Raleigh

Freewater, by Amina Luqman-Dawson

The 2023 Newbery & Coretta Scott King Award Winner, Freewater tells the story of 12-year-old Homer and his little sister Ada as they flee their home on Southerland Plantation. An inspiring story of survival, love, bravery, and adventure, this text quickly earns its spot on your classroom’s beloved historical fiction shelf.

‍The Newberry Award-winning "Freewater" is a text that perfectly complements our curriculum. With a protagonist that faces and overcomes hardship, the text is another wonderful tale of the African Diaspora.” —Mr. Brunson, Award Winning Literature in the Classroom

Black Brother, Black Brother, by Jewell Parker Rhodes

Jewell Parker Rhodes’s book looks at the school-to-prison pipeline through the story of two biracial brothers — one who presents as Black, and the other who presents as White — and a world that doesn’t treat them equally.

“Providing my readers with the opportunity to read Black Brother, Black Brother as a whole class at home will enable them to view the world through different perspectives, research other connecting events, and have the tough but all-too-necessary conversations required to change the future.” —Mrs. Stegall, Black Brother, Black Brother: A Novel for Racial Equality

Class Act, by Jerry Craft

Class Act is a companion book to New Kid, winner of the 2020 Newbery Medal, the Coretta Scott King Author Award, and the Kirkus Prize. The graphic novel shows the lives of middle schoolers as they come to terms with the realities of privilege.

Before the Ever After, by Jacqueline Woodson

Jaqueline Woodson’s novel-in-verse and winner of the Coretta Scott King Author Award Before the Ever After tells the story of a family dealing with the impact professional sports — specifically football — has on Black bodies.

Long Way Down: The Graphic Novel, by Jason Reynolds

Long Way Down is a graphic novel in verse with illustrations by Danica Novgorodoff that centers the story of a boy who witnessed his brother die in a fatal shooting. As he weighs his options for revenge, he’s visited by people from his past.

“Jason Reynolds speaks to my students, especially my young men who struggle to engage with literature. His work offers a different perspective than the classics that we typically find on the shelves at school. Students deserve to read his books.” —Ms. Rausch, Long Way to Literacy

High School Books by Black Authors

Just Mercy (Adapted for Young Adults): A True Story of the Fight for Justice, Bryan Stevenson

Lawyer and activist Bryan Stevenson’s book Just Mercy depicts his experience as a young lawyer defending wrongfully incriminated clients in the south. This version, adapted for young adult audiences, shows students a glimpse into the broken US justice system.

Parable of the Sower, by Octavia Butler

Great literature, racial justice, and environmental science combine in this novel featuring a 15-year-old Black girl who builds a powerful cohort of young leaders to fight for survival and discover a new vision for humanity.

“This post-apocalyptic science fiction novel centers around a 15-year-old girl who can feel the pain of others and becomes removed from her California home. Through the character's journey, issues of climate change and social inequity are raised. [This book will allow us to] make cross-cultural connections related to historical and scientific topics. Butler's novel provides students with a real opportunity to discuss issues that are increasingly relevant and troubling.” —Ms. Gionti, Parable of the Sower: Sci-Fi Books Needed

Children of Blood and Bone, by Tomi Adeyemi

This 2018 fantasy novel and #1 New York Times Bestseller by Nigerian-American novelist Tomi Adeyemi has become a fast classic. First in the Legacy of Orisha series, Children of Blood and Bone incorpoerest Adeyemi’s West African heritage in a story of fighting injustice and discrimination.

“Children of Blood and Bone is an amazing read that explores powerful female characters and social issues that are relevant to the world we live in, as well as magic and adventure that keep readers on the edge of their seats.” —Mrs. Majeski-Turner, Help Amazing Young Women Read Children of Blood and Bone

Concrete Rose, by Angie Thomas

Looking for a book like The Hate U Give? Angie Thomas’s new novel Concrete Rose revisits the same neighborhood 17 years prior, exploring Black boyhood and manhood through the story of 17-year-old Maverick Carter.

Punching the Air, by Ibi Zoboi and Yusef Salaam

Co-written by award winning novelist Ibi Zoboi and prison reform activist Yusef Salaam of The Exonerated Five, Punching the Air is a YA novel written in verse about a wrongfully incarcerated boy.

“In my 13 years as a professional librarian, [Punching the Air] is one of the finest books I have ever read for young adults. All of us will read the book as a learning community, to discuss and explore.” —Mrs. May-Stein, Punch Out Illiteracy in the Time of COVID-19!

The Weary Blues, by Langston Hughes

Truly no library is complete without Langston Hughes. Written in 1925, “The Weary Blues” is a seminal work of the Harlem Renaissance, and Hughes’s first collection of poetry still resonates today.

Between the World and Me, by Ta-Nehisi Coates

Ta-Nehisi Coates’s 2015 nonfiction bestseller weaves personal narrative and history, and is written as a letter to his teenage son. Inspired by the writing of James Baldwin, Coates interrogates the "racist violence that has been woven into American culture."

“Ta-Nehisi Coates makes these real world struggles personal and engaging. What started as a letter to his son, now has grown into a memoir and meditation for all teenagers and adults to understand what others go through.” —Mr. Steinman, Between the World and the Heights

The Nickel Boys, by Colson Whitehead

Winner of the 2020 Pulitzer Prize for Fiction, The Nickel Boys follows the story of two boys unjustly sent to a reform school in Jim Crow-era Florida.

“The Nickel Boys promises to be a novel which inspires engaged discussion, thoughtful reflection, and even some soul-searching in the high school classroom. To move forward as a diverse country requires us to examine some of the tragedies of our disparate paths. This book provides the opportunity for readers to do just that.” —Ms. Furlong, A New and Necessary Novel: Colson Whitehead in the Classroom

Do the Work : An Antiracist Activity Book, by W. Kamau Bell and  Kate Schatz 

Are you looking for new conversation starters and tools to discuss racial injustice in your classroom? This interactive workbook, co-written by DonorsChoose Board Member W. Kamau Bell, challenges readers to think critically and do the work. 

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Spot a book you’d love your students to read? Create a project today: www.donorschoose.org/teachers

In search of that extra special something for your students this holiday season? The DonorsChoose team has you covered. 

We pulled together the ultimate gift guide made just for you and your classroom — curated from our site’s most frequently teacher-requested items. Explore our list below and wrap up this season with a shiny new list of ideas for your next classroom project.

1. The Essentials: Office & Craft Supplies

When it comes to giving your students what they need to thrive, DonorsChoose teachers know no supply is too simple or small. Give your classroom the everyday essentials including our most popular office and craft supplies including crayons, cleaning wipes for learning spaces, and dry erase markers. 

Need inspiration for your request? Check out Ms. DeCastro’s “Classroom Supplies” project. 

2. Treat Your Shelves: Brand new books!

Got a classroom full of eager readers? Take a page out your fellow teachers’ book for gift ideas: Books by underrepresented authors for making your classroom as inclusive as can be, magazines for getting them started on their love of nonfiction, or full book sets so your kids can keep up with their favorite characters together.

Need inspiration for your request? Check out Dr. Pargas’ “Book Sets for Emerging Readers” project. 

3. Sitting Pretty: Classroom Furniture

As a teacher, you know the very best environment for learning is one that makes a student feel welcome. A few great gift items for doing exactly that? Try some fun and functional bean bag chairs, comfy rugs for learning, and simple classroom storage items sure to keep things in order.

Need inspiration for your request?  Check out Ms. Nolan’s “Cozy Comprehension Center” project.

4. Gifts That Rock: Music Supplies

For any aspiring musicians in your classroom, these gifts will hit the right notes: reeds for that jazzy woodwind sections, tuba mouthpieces for your big brass fans, and music tuners for the entire class. 

Need inspiration for your request? Check out Mr. Dojahn’s “We Will Succeed At Our Deeds With New Reeds” project.

5. Mindfulness Magic: Social-Emotional Learning

Social emotional learning (SEL) is a critical component to curriculums and, if you’re hoping to give the gift of some SEL lessons to your students this season, we have a few popular ideas, including mindful mazes, the Invisible String Picture Book,” as well as “180 days of Emotional Learning for Third Grade.”

Need inspiration for your request? Check out Mrs. Albrecht “A Healthy, Strong Classroom” project.

6. P.E. Perfection: Sports Equipment

Physical education is never to be overlooked. Helping students learn teamwork, health, and not to mention fun, here are a few of our most popular “P.E.” gift ideas: Everrich sportive physical education P.E. Fitness Dice Set, Homeroom Physical Education Pack, P.E. cart for carrying all matter of sports equipment and beyond. 

Need inspiration for your request? Check out Ms. Negrillo’s “Get 5th Grade Moving!” project.

7. Sweet Science: STEM for Your Students

Critical thinking, problem solving, curiosity, innovation — we could go on about how beneficial STEM education is for students. Some sweet STEM gift ideas for enriching your classroom? Lab equipment like chemistry goggles, STEM kits, and even building block education disc sets for the younger learner.

Need inspiration for your request? Check out Mrs. Lee’s “STEM for Little Engineers” project.

8. Tech Time: Technology Supplies

Let’s talk tech. Headphones, laptops, and printers are practical tools that keep classrooms running. It’s no wonder they are the most-requested tech supplies on DonorsChoose right now.

Need inspiration for your request? Check out Ms. Emma’s “Multiple Learning Styles in Literacy!” project. 

9. Game on! Toys & Games

You heard it all the time: “Learning can and should be fun.” However, for a classroom teacher, this is easier said than done! Bringing some fresh, fun supplies into your room can definitely help. Some sure winners for your classroom include activities like board games, building toys, and fidget toys to help your lessons and students stay on track. 

Need inspiration for your request?  Check out Ms. Collins’ “Board Games: Bored No More!” project.

The best part about these gifts? Our community of supporters are all ready to help fund any of these items for you and your students right away when you post your next classroom project. Go shopping today and get the supplies your students need for a bright new year ahead. 

The magic of DonorsChoose is that teachers request the materials their students need most — and then boxes of supplies arrive at their classroom door!

Here’s what happens in between: When a teacher posts a request for their classroom, the DonorsChoose community and generous partners provide much of the funding needed. We encourage that teacher to reach out to 1-2 folks from their own community and — with these powers combined— the project gets all the donations it needs and we send the supplies directly to the classroom.

A few simple tweaks can help every classroom project be successful. Teachers at Equity Focus Schools around the country shared their best tips for how they get their projects funded — and how you can, too!

1. Keep your project total low

“My main tips for getting projects funded are [to] keep the project total low… and watch for matches that you qualify for!” – Ms. Mattox, kindergarten teacher

Smaller requests are likely to get funded quickly. In fact, projects under $200 have a 90% chance of being funded, while projects over $1000 are funded only about 43% of the time. 

Pro tip: Need more than $200 in supplies? Create a couple of projects under $200 — and watch as they’re fully-funded in a snap!

2. Pay attention to match offers

“Create a project when there are 2X matches and funding opportunities.! Advertise the match on social media, even in advance of the project getting approved.” – Dr. Ramos, second grade teacher

Generous people, companies, and foundations often offer matching gifts for projects meeting certain criteria. That means donations to your project can be multiplied instantly! Check out the current match offers to see what kinds of projects they’re funding and how you can qualify.

Pro trip: Bookmark that match offer page and check it frequently. It’s consistently updated with new offers.

3. Share, share, share!

“Share, share, share! It always makes a difference. Sometimes I ask friends and family to share rather than give.” – Ms. Douma, high school teacher

“Share, Share, Share, EVERYWHERE! Think outside the box! Is there a group or organization that supports your project’s cause? If so, share with them! When we had a project to help teach CPR to students, I found a senator in another state that supported the same mission and shared my project with him!” – Ms. Leanna, middle school health clinic educator

“Share on social media! Share! Share! Share!” – Ms. Wilson, fourth grade teacher

“Share with people outside of social media too! Print those flyers, and go to small local businesses, your doctor, etc. and ask for support. You would be surprised how many do not know about DonorsChoose, and how many are very happy to donate.”  – Ms. C., kindergarten teacher

People want to know about the great work you're doing! Even if they can’t donate, many will be happy to spread the word for you. 

Novice tip: Wherever you share your project, be sure to include a link to your DonorsChoose teacher page. It’s a one-stop shop for them to see (and support!) you and your students. Check out more sharing tips in this post.

4. Word choice matters

“I like to write my project in a way that is honest to my experience with my students. I describe what I think would help my students learn and succeed. [I try to] best express the sentiments I feel, and how I think my students would feel, about the potential of [receiving the items].” – Ms. Handler, elementary school teacher

Here are a few other tips for writing your project description: 

• Tell a story. Illustrate why and how the project will help your class. Here's a great example: "Flexible seating allows students to take charge of their learning and make the choices that work best for them. My students are noticeably more engaged in their work and less disruptive to their peers when they are given a choice of where to work."
  
• Beware of jargon. If you use acronyms like the name of a standardized test or "ELMO," make sure you explain them. (Most donors will picture the Sesame Street character, not a useful document camera!)
  
• Double check spelling and grammar. Donors love to see that you've put time and care into your project.
  
• Let your students shine. When writing about your students, focus on their interests, strengths, and aspirations — not just their struggles. Ask yourself if your students and their parents would feel proud of themselves after reading your essay.

5. Be patient

“In my experience, most projects get funded in time. If I am willing to wait (and even re-post on the rare occasion that it is not funded the first time), the project will eventually be funded. This is particularly true if the price of the project is not too high.” – Ms. Handler, elementary school teacher

Follow these teacher tips and give our community a chance to support you and your students!

So far in 2023, people across the country have come together to give millions of dollars in school supplies to public school classrooms through DonorsChoose. But for teachers and kids, the year isn’t wrapped up yet. They're still hard at work in classrooms that need your support. 

If you’re looking to donate to a classroom project this season, but aren’t sure where to give, you’re in the right place.  We crunched the giving numbers to bring you the projects, people, and places that need support before 2023 draws to a close.

The 5 most-needed school supplies

A few basics top the list this year by quite a wide margin. Here’s the countdown:

Mrs. Blincoe, in her project Do You Copy?, sheds some light on why paper in particular is such a crucial, recurring need:‍

“When asked, "What do I need the most in my classroom?" every year my answer is the same… copy paper. We need it for Reading Workshops, Math Workshops, tests, homework, parent reminders OH MY!”‍

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‍Never-before-funded teachers

Meet the teachers who are putting their faith in the DonorsChoose community for the first time ever. 

From first-year teachers stocking an empty classroom to veteran educators who want to stop spending their own hard-earned money on school supplies, these are the teachers who need a champion like you.‍

“Thank you all SO much, from the bottom of my heart, for helping me fully fund my very first project! I am so excited to tell the peanuts about it- I know they are going to love the new materials and their added impact to our classroom! Thank you for truly making an impact on the school days of some well-deserving, hard-working, and soon-to-be very grateful kiddos.” -Mrs. Hardy, A New Type of Classroom: A Home Away From Home

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This grade level could use a boost

Let’s hear it for third grade! Teachers from this grade level have the most projects waiting to be funded right now on DonorsChoose.‍

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Equity Focus Schools

For schools with a history of being underfunded, getting the right tools is an extra challenge. Your donation to an Equity Focus School helps level the playing field for students who deserve the same access and resources as their peers in other zip codes. (You can read more about Equity Focus Schools here.)

Says Mrs. Kurz in her project You Get Paper! and You Get Paper!: ‍

“I have the privilege of teaching three 7th-grade ELA classes in an urban setting school. If given the proper tools and guidance, my students are capable of amazing things. They are creative, intelligent problem solvers. There is no shortage when it comes to expressing themselves; they just need the tools to do that in a constructive way. My students are inquisitive risk-takers who, when given a challenge, will not back away. As a teacher, I want to give them that challenge and give them the world.”  ‍

Top 5 cities that could use a hand

We’ve crunched the 2023 donation numbers so far and mapped the places that could use an extra hand this month. Whether it’s your home community or a place 3,000 miles away, you can be a good neighbor to the awesome teachers and students in: Houston, Miami, Charlotte, St. Louis, and Washington, D.C.

Wherever you choose to give, your donation will make the final days of 2023 bright and merry for students and teachers.

When classrooms celebrate world cultures as part of an affirming and expansive learning environment for students, young children are more able to develop a positive sense of identity and build self-esteem. 

Lunar New Year is one of the world's most vibrant holidays centered around good fortune, lucky foods, and togetherness. This year, Lunar New Year falls on February 10, 2024. Celebrated by more than 1.5 billion people worldwide, this colorful and rich holiday provides a great opportunity for teachers looking to bring other cultures into the classroom. For the second year in a row, we’re partnering with Panda Express, the largest family-owned and operated Asian dining concept in the U.S., for our Lunar New Year partnership, doubling donations to related projects and sharing a free Lunar New Year curriculum.

Starting today, November 20, Panda invites you to create a project to help students learn about and celebrate Lunar New Year for doubled donations.

Create a project

Panda Express’ Let’s Explore! Lunar New Year Program

In addition to doubling donations, Panda Express is sharing its “Let’s Explore!: Lunar New Year” program, a fun, free and educational resource for teachers who are looking for ideas to bring Lunar New Year to life in their classrooms.

The curriculum includes eight interactive activities that explore the rich traditions of Lunar New Year, like the meaning behind lucky foods eaten during the 15-day long celebration, the symbolism of lucky red envelopes, the importance of zodiac animals, and more. 

In addition to the digital curriculum, you’ll be sent a physical activity booklet that includes matching games, coloring templates, trivia, and step-by-step directions on how to make a Chinese Lantern and more, while supplies last. We encourage you to sign up for this limited-time interactive program! 

Learn more and sign up

Lunar New Year Project Inspiration

Looking for inspiration to take your classroom celebration to the next level? We want to share a few of our favorite Lunar New Year projects funded by Panda last year!

Ms. Huang requested calligraphy brushes, papers, inks, and more so that students could learn about Chinese culture during the Lunar New Year.

“Students will be practicing writing 8 basic strokes and Chinese characters with calligraphy brushes, ink, and rice paper. Students will learn patience and perseverance through Chinese calligraphy, which also help us to develop a broader vocabulary."

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Mr. Andy requested Lunar New Year decorations and supplies to host a family engagement event in his classroom.

"Many of our families celebrate the Lunar New Year and our classroom should represent what our students' homes look like. Our classroom should become both a window to look into others' cultures, and also a mirror as a reflection of their own."

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Ms. Stroy requested the art supplies her students needed to lead a Lunar New Year celebration in their school.

"Most of my students celebrate the Chinese New Year, and they would love to educate and involve the whole class in making festive lanterns, fireworks, and rabbit sculptures! My students eagerly provided me with a vision and a list of craft materials and colors to make their celebration a success."

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Want a few more ideas? Check out all the Lunar New Year projects funded by Panda Express last year!

We hope you’ll join us in deepening cultural education for today’s youth and acknowledging the cultural significance of one of the world’s most celebrated holidays! Create your project.

When students get hands-on with history, wonder and excitement fills the classroom — but finding and incorporating high quality immersive resources isn’t always easy! Last spring, we featured new resources from the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC) to help teachers do just that.

The North Star, a digital learning product of NMAAHC, allows students to explore history through the African American lens. Using objects, documents, imagery, and videos, students can enhance their content knowledge, hone historical thinking skills, and begin to see themselves as agents of change.

In Spring 2023, DonorsChoose invited teachers to submit a lesson plan using NMAAHC’s  North Star learning modules.

Teachers blew us away with their creativity and thoughtfulness! Check out three lesson plans from our winning teachers below!

North Star Curricula

Becoming a Historian: Historical Context

Ms. Van Weelden | Grades 9–12 

Students will learn how historical context enhances their understanding of past events and individuals, and the methods they can use to uncover and interpret this context effectively.

Lesson Plan

Unit Essential Question: How can we leverage primary sources and texts to educate students
about Black history?
Specific Essential Question: How does historical context enhance our understanding of past
events and individuals, and what methods can we use to uncover and interpret this context
effectively?
Amount of Time Needed to Complete: 1-2 days
Level of Students: 9-12th grade
Class Subject: English/History

Pre-Assessment to Understand “Context” | 10-15 minutes

• Divide the class into small groups of 4-5 students.
• Give each group a short paragraph or sentence open to interpretation without any context. For example: "He saw the bird flying and took aim."
• Ask each group to come up with as many possible meanings for the sentence as they can. Encourage them to think creatively and outside the box.
• After 5-10 minutes, bring the class back together and ask each group to share their
  interpretations.
• Discuss how the different meanings arose due to the lack of context and how context is
  important in understanding a sentence or paragraph's true meaning.
• Next, give each group a different paragraph or sentence with additional context, and ask
  them to interpret it again. For example: "He saw the bird flying and took aim with his
  camera, capturing a beautiful photograph."
• Once again, ask each group to share their interpretations and discuss how the added
  context changed their understanding of the sentence.

Direct Instruction | 15 minutes

Have students take notes on slides 4-6 of the Becoming a Historian slideshow. Explain
what context is and why it is important. Finish by describing the elements of historical
context:

• Definition: Historical context is the background information that informs a deeper
  understanding of a historical individual, group or event.
• Why it is important? Historical context is important because it allows historians
  to better understand history in the ways a historical individual or group
  understood the world around them, which leads historians to analyze the past
  more accurately.
• Elements of Historical Context: Politics - Government - Law; Economics; Socio-Cultural; Religion; Science and Technology; Community Histories; Health - Medicine - Diseases; Environmental; Military; Key Events in History

Formative Assessement | 20-30 minutes

• Divide the class into the same groups of 4-5 students. Depending on how many students are in the class, you can assign multiple elements to one group.
• Give each group one element of historical context to research. (Group 1: Politics - Government - Law; Group 2: Economics; and so on)
• Display the picture of The Poor People's Campaign of 1968 and the Fight Against Poverty on slide 14.
• Explain that each group needs to use Chromebooks (or their phones) to research their specific historical element in order to complete the picture. For example, the group with the “economic” aspect would research what was happening in the economy during the 1960s. They then would examine how these economic factors are depicted in the picture to gain a deeper understanding of the image's context.
• At the end of the allotted time, each group will present their findings to the class
  

(Optional) Summative Assessment: 10-15 minutes‍

Have the students complete the 4 question quis on slide 15 to demonstrate their understanding of the lesson.

• What is Historical Context?
• Why is Historical Context important?
• Identify Elements of Historical Context.
• True or false: A historical research project is stronger when a student or historian does not research the historical context.

The format of this quiz can be given on paper, in Google Forms, or on the website itself.

Becoming a Historian: Cause and Effect

Mr. Bernstein | Grades 10–12 ‍

Students will learn to use historical thinking skills and define cause and effect by comparing and contrasting history with the impacts of computing on society.

Lesson Plan

Subject: AP Computer Science Principles
Grade Level: 10–12
Time: 1 Class Period‍

Objective:
Each student will be able to

• Use historical thinking skills - allow historians to better practice and interpret history
• Define cause and effect and practive employing strategies

Overview
Bell Ringer: Historians ask how an individual, group, event or idea was caused or influenced by events that came before it, as well as what short-term and long-term effects that an individual, group, event, or idea had on what came after. How can we compare and contract history with Computer Sciences Intended Purpose, Functionality, Beneficial, and Harmful Effect?

Agenda‍

Students visit Becoming a Historian: Cause and Effect.

Review Slides and answer questions with your group. Students will share a Google Docs to collaborate and answer the questions as they move throughout the course.

Key Definition:

• Cause and Effect
• Primary and Secondary Sources
• Impact on Society?

Once Students have completed Becoming a Historian: Cause and Effect, students will use their new knowledge to connect these key concepts to Computer Science and Computational innovations focusing on Beneficial and Harmful Effects, Impact on Society, Culture, Economy, Data Privacy, and how computational innovations have a cause and effect within the innovation for society.

Extra ticket: Complete the 3,2,1

• 3 things I learned
• 2 things I found interesting
• 1 question I still have

CTE Standards and Benchmarks

CSP Conceptual Framework

• CRD-1 - Incorporating multiple perspectives through collaboration improves the computing innovations being developed.
• IOC-1 - While computing innovations are typically designed to achieve a specific purpose, they may have unintended consequences.
• IOC-2 - The use of computing innovations may involve risks to your personal safety and identity.

CSTA K-12 Computer Science Standards (2017)

• IC - Impacts of Computing
• 3A-IC-24 - Evaluate the ways computing impacts personal, ethical, social, economic, and cultural practices.
• 3A-IC-27 - Use tools and methods for collaboration on a project to increase connectivity of people in different cultures and career fields.
• 3B-IC-25 - Evaluate computational artifacts to maximize their beneficial effects and minimize harmful effects on society.

Grades: Use Canva to create an infographic based on what is Cause and Effect and compare and contract how it is in History and Computer Science.

Becoming a Historian: Comparison

Ms. Bavuso | Grade 6 

Students will develop their comparison skills by analyzing primary documents, comparing life today to other periods of history, and drawing conclusions about history through those comparisons.

Lesson Plan

Learning Target: I can develop my comparison skills to become a better historian.

Success Criteria

• I can compare life during other periods of history to today.
• I can analyze primary documents.
• I can draw conclusions about hisrory based on my comparisons.

Introduction

Historical thinking skills allow historians to better practice and interpret history.

This Learning Lab will guide us through the process of defining historical comparison and practicing employing strategies from an example dealing with four personalities living through Jim Crow in the late nineteenth century.

Comparison is when historians note the similarities and differences of individuals, events, and groups. They question how and why these similarities or differences impacted history or even the modern day.

Instructions: You will have 7 minutes to, with your group/partner, review the slides entitled “How to Find Comparison?” to develop your knowledge about finding comparisons.

Mid Lesson Assessment: Independently complete the “Test Your Knowledge” Quiz to ensure that you are ready to move on!

Research Project: Each group has been assigned a civil rights activist. Using your assigned activist and the resources provided, complete your chart about your activist.

Resources:

• Secondary source videos
• Internet research

Group Presentations: Each group will present the information they found on their chosen activist. You must take notes on the activists you did NOT research in order to help you develop your comparison.

Independent Practice: Independently, complete the practicing comparison slides and develop your comparison statements based on research completed by you and your classmates. In short response form, independently respond to the following question: Who do you think had the most effective response to Jim Crow and securing civil rights?

Inspired to bring these lessons to your students? Create a project to request all the resources you need to bring them to life.