Teacher: Lola Pineda
School: McClave School
District Website: www.mcclaveschool.org
School Address: 308 Lincoln, McClave, CO
Grade Level: 4th Grade
Region: Southeast
Project Title: Literature Circles
Category: Literacy
Amount Requested: $700

Project Description:
I am requesting funds to expand our selection of chapter books to conduct literature circles. Literature circles focus on improving reading skills such as comprehension, vocabulary, fluency, and writing. McClave School, located in Southeast Colorado, serves about 250 students from preschool through 12th grade. This funding will enhance our literacy program by helping students engage with various genres and improve their reading skills.

Proposal:
With the requested funds, I will purchase chapter book sets to facilitate literature circles, which aim to improve students' comprehension, vocabulary, and critical thinking. By engaging with multiple genres, students will expand their literary experience and enhance their written responses to critical thinking questions. These funds will help create a more diverse and rich reading environment, promoting better academic outcomes for students.

Budget Breakdown:

Purchase 3 sets of 25 chapter books: $700

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Website: lajuntaschools.org

Address: 901 Smithland, La Junta, CO 81050

Grade Level: 6th grade reading

Region: Southeast

Project Title: Closing the Gaps

Category: Literacy

Funding Amount Requested: $1,000

Project Description:
This group of sixth graders was severely affected by the COVID pandemic, missing critical years for reading development in K-2. As a result, many students are unable to read or are reading below a 6th-grade level. I offer tutoring but lack the necessary resources to meet students at their level. My goal is to give these students the opportunities they missed during COVID, focusing on building foundational reading skills to help them succeed.

Impact:
Our school is 100% free and reduced lunch, with many students coming from broken homes or living with family members instead of parents. These students need all the support they can get. By providing resources to help teach foundational reading skills, I hope to give students a chance to catch up and feel successful in their learning. Fun, engaging resources will make learning enjoyable, and appropriate-level books will allow all students to experience success in reading.

Use of Funds:
- Foundational Reading Resources (Games, Digraph and Vowel Pair Practice Tools)
- Books at Different Reading Levels

Website: www.re-2.org

Address: 100 Illinois St., Penrose CO. 81240

Grade Level: Kindergarten

Region: Southeast

Project Title: Writing Our Way

Category: Literacy

Funding Amount Requested: $1,750

Project Description:
Here at Penrose Elementary in Penrose, Colorado, we love to see our youngest students grow as little authors! Writing is where students are able to express themselves through pictures, words, and stories. We are requesting funds to support all learners in their growth and development to be better writers, and to make writing easier for our kindergarten students. Funds will be spent to provide tools to differentiate learning and meet the needs of all students. New floor desks and stools will be used for flexible seating, and dry erase boards and slates will help support learners, particularly those who struggle with pencil and paper tasks. We thank you for your help in bringing the joy of writing to our little learners.

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Impact:
With your help, we will be able to reach a variety of learners to support them on their journey as writers. The addition of student floor desks and stools for our small group table will provide flexibility in seating and open up small and large group learning opportunities. The addition of chalk and dry erase boards will give learners the opportunity to use various tools to develop the fine motor skills necessary to become successful writers.

Use of Funds:
- The Surf Portable Lap Desk, Kids Floor Desk, One-Piece Writing Table, Flexible Seating, 10-Pack - Seafoam - $184.99 each (5 packs) - $924.95
- Daisy Stackable Stool Set, Flexible Seating, 8-Piece - Contemporary - $159.99 each (3 packs) - $479.97
- The Surf Storage Rack, Stores 30 Portable Lap Desks, Cart with Rolling and Locking Casters - $159.99 (1 unit) - $159.99
- 75Pcs Party Favors for Kids 3-5 4-8 Fidget Toys Bulk Mini Pop Keychain Sensory Toys - $11.99 (1 unit) - $11.99
- Dry Erase Lapboards with Lines - Pack of 25 Lined Whiteboard Set - 9x12 - Student Single Sided - $35.99 each (2 packs) - $71.98
- Small Chalkboard with Frame - Pack of 7 small chalkboard set - 7x5 - Student Double Sided - $13.99 each (6 units) - $97.93

Total cost with tax (free shipping): $1,747.24

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School Website: custercountyschools.org

Principal: Sydney Benesch
Principal Email: sydney.Benesch@ccbobcats.net

Project Description:
My name is Madi Kusturin, or as the students like to call me, Mrs. K. I am requesting funds to build literacy within my high school classes. I would like to purchase a class set of The Anthropocene Reviewed by John Green for my 11th graders. I hope to use this book as part of my curriculum, but first, I need funds to purchase copies. In addition to this class set, I would love to add more books to my classroom library for high school students. After graduating from Texas A&M University with a focus on middle school education, I collected many middle school novels. However, my classroom library is in need of high school novels. In our classroom, we participate in "First Chapter Thursday," where we read the first chapter of a novel. Afterward, students can decide if they want to check the book out of the classroom library.

Proposal:
The opportunity for my classroom to acquire funds for new class sets of books and classroom library books will have a major impact on high school students in Custer County. Many students lack the financial means to purchase novels for the curriculum. Funds would allow us to obtain needed novels and provide access to culturally relevant and popular books, helping students connect with the broader reading community.

Budget Breakdown:

The Anthropocene Reviewed class set (15-16 novels at $15 each): $230
Additional classroom novels for high school students: $370
Total: $600

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Teacher: Sarah White
School: Clear Creek Middle/High School
District: Clear Creek RE-1
District Website: https://ccms.ccsdre1.org/
School Address: 185 Beaver Brook Canyon Rd, Evergreen, CO 80439
Grade Level: 7th and 8th Grade
Region: Central Mountains
Project Title: Short Books, Big Impact
Category: Literacy
Amount Requested: $300

Project Description:
I am requesting funds to buy children's books for elementary schools nearby. Clear Creek School District is a small, close-knit community. Through this project, my 8th-grade students will research the impact of early literacy, select children's books, and read them to preschool and kindergarten students at local schools. This project aims to build community, foster peer involvement, and promote the importance of literacy. My students will learn that reading can make a difference in the lives of others while developing skills in research, communication, and community service.

Proposal:
Clear Creek Middle School seeks to expand its engagement with the community through project-based learning. In this project, my advanced 8th-grade students will research how early literacy affects personal growth, select children's books, and analyze their themes. The class will visit a local elementary school to read to younger students and donate the selected books to the school's library. This project not only emphasizes the importance of literacy but also fosters a sense of responsibility and community connection for my students, empowering them to make a positive impact on others.

Budget Breakdown:

Transportation costs: $111.40
Books for 12 students ($15 each): $180
Total: $300

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Teacher: Marissa Grubb
School: Merit Academy
District: Woodland Park School District
District Website: Merit Academy
School Address: 600 E Kelly's Rd, Woodland Park, CO 80863
Grade Level: 1st Grade
Region: Central Mountains
Project Title: Tailored Learning 1st Grade
Category: Literacy
Amount Requested: $2,000

Project Description:
At Merit Academy, a classical charter school in Woodland Park, Colorado, we are committed to providing a rigorous education while fostering virtues such as responsibility, valor, goodness, perseverance, and friendship. Our diverse rural community includes students from Pre-K through 11th grade, and in my 1st grade classroom, we focus on creating an engaging and supportive learning environment.

For our 4th year, I am seeking funds to enhance our math and literacy centers with collaborative learning resources. These resources will include interactive materials and tools that promote group work and hands-on activities, making learning more dynamic and effective. By incorporating these educational tools, we will support diverse learning styles and encourage cooperative problem-solving and critical thinking.

Use of Funds:
These additional literacy tools will address different learning needs and provide fun, hands-on activities to strengthen reading skills. These resources and tools will improve both academic learning and character development.

With these resources, my goal is to enhance literacy, increase student interest, and inspire a lasting love of reading. Your support will make a big difference, giving students important skills and supporting their personal growth, while transforming our classroom into a more effective and engaging learning environment.

Budget Breakdown:

• Literacy Centers: Engaging kits and interactive tools to support reading skills development, including leveled reading books, phonics games, and sight word activities. Materials will cater to varying levels, with advanced kits for students who excel in reading and foundational sets for those needing extra support.
• Math Centers: Hands-on manipulatives and games to reinforce math concepts such as addition, subtraction, and place value. We will include both challenging materials for advanced learners and more accessible resources for students who require additional practice.
• Phonics Materials: Comprehensive phonics instruction kits, including letter tiles, blending boards, and decodable books. Resources will be tailored to different skill levels, ensuring that both advanced readers and those needing more practice can benefit.
• Science of Reading Resources: Evidence-based materials to support the science of reading approach, including interactive whiteboards, phonemic awareness activities, and vocabulary-building tools.
• Hands-On Activities: A variety of manipulatives and games designed to make learning engaging and effective, including math and literacy activity kits, and small group materials.
• Small Group Instruction Tools: Resources for differentiated instruction, such as individual whiteboards, mini-games, and customized learning kits to support small group work.

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Teacher: Arika Weller
School: Merit Academy
District: Woodland Park
District Website: merit.academy
School Address: 500 E Kelley's Rd, Woodland Park, CO 80863
Grade Level: 5th & 6th Geography & History
Region: Central Mountains
Project Title: Geography & History with Merit
Category: Literacy
Amount Requested: $1,140

Project Description:
Woodland Park, a small town located at an elevation over 8,400 feet is home to Merit Academy, a classical education charter school where as a Geography and History teacher, I am passionate about supporting the growth of my learners into responsible citizens! Using globes, atlases, and primary source documents are important in supporting real-life skills. I am requesting access to document-based questions from The DBQ Project, a set of atlases, and classroom globes.

Project Goals:
Through engaging historical questions, learners evaluate primary/first account sources, learn how to decide what they mean, and then take their evidence-based argument into the spoken and written word, creating high-level critical thinking skills. Acquiring access to the document-based questions and structured writing method through The DBQ Project develops learners' research skills and thesis/argumentative writing skills. Along with these analytical skills, providing hands-on learning with globes and atlases piques wonder for the world beyond their rural doorstep and supports our community's children through their journey to becoming life-long-learners.

Budget Breakdown:

• The DBQ Project: Mini-Qs in World History Volumes 1 & 2 - $400 each, Total = $800
• National Geographic Student World Atlases: 20 copies at approximately $11 each, Total = $220
• Classroom Globes: 2 Replogle Student Classic World Globes at approximately $60 each, Total = $120

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Teacher: Minerva Richardson
School: Merit Academy
District: RE-2 Woodland Park School District
District Website: www.merit.academy
School Address: 500 E. Kelly's Road, Woodland Park, CO 80863
Grade Level: 1st Grade
Region: Central Mountains
Project Title: READ for SUCCESS
Category: Literacy
Amount Requested: $2,000

Project Description:
I truly believe, and research shows, that students get better at reading with practice. My students need all the resources to help them practice reading daily, both in our classroom and at home. Like sports, musical instruments, and even exercise, the more we work at something, the more we improve. Students who are excited about reading and who have high-quality, engaging books at their fingertips daily will grow and develop as readers. Students with increased opportunities to read will build their stamina for reading and develop a daily habit and a lifelong love of reading. As with any task, the learner must be motivated in order to be successful. My request is for a classroom lending library that will motivate my students to read voraciously.

Project Goals:
Read for Success - Long term: to foster a love of reading within my students.
Short term:
1. To ensure that my students will take home a book to read at their reading level.
2. To increase the volume of reading they are doing (as suggested by CCSS).
3. To motivate my students to spend more time at home reading daily.
4. To inspire my students to talk about books with their peers first thing in the morning.
5. To get my students excited to read and ready to enter homes with a bag of good-fit books prepared to curl up and read.

This project is important for a number of reasons. First, students are motivated to read when their teacher is excited, book choices are presented to them, and they have the opportunity to make their own choices based on interest and ability. Secondly, many of my students are below average readers and have come from different backgrounds with few resources. They deserve a classroom lending library full of high-quality fiction and informational texts. Finally, this project will help build a community of readers who get excited about titles, genres, characters, and stories.

What may sound like a simple grant request (books, rolling bookshelves, and book bags to travel back and forth to home and school) will truly make a huge difference in the lives of my students. A portion of the funding will focus on informational texts so students can learn and build background knowledge for content areas and research projects. I will also have fiction titles, poetry, and songbooks to borrow a variety of genres.

Total Amount: $1,943.97

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Website: https://www.mcsd.org

Address: 13820 6700 Rd, Montrose, CO 81401

Grade Level: K-5 Reading Intervention

Region: Central Mountains

Project Title: iPad for K-5: Data & Learning

Category: Literacy

Funding Amount Requested: $1,700

Project Description:
I am requesting funds for an iPad Pro 11", Magic Keyboard, and Apple Pencil to assist me in my role as a reading interventionist working with K-5 students who have a Significant Reading Deficiency (SRD). In our school, 48% of the student population is identified as SRD, and we serve a diverse group of students, many of whom come from migrant worker families. This technology will allow me to efficiently track student progress, adapt lessons to meet individual learning needs, and provide targeted interventions to help struggling readers improve their literacy skills. By integrating this technology into my instruction, I will be able to deliver more personalized and data-driven support to students who face significant academic challenges.

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Impact:
This project will support literacy growth for students who face significant reading difficulties. With 73% of our students qualifying for free and reduced lunch and 23.1% receiving Special Education services, this technology will help close the achievement gap. It will enable me to efficiently conduct running records, adapt materials for English language learners and students with special needs, and provide targeted interventions to those who need the most support.

Use of Funds:

• Apple 11-inch iPad Pro (Wi-Fi, 512GB, Space Black): $1,099.00
• Apple Pencil Pro - White: $149.00
• Apple Magic Keyboard for iPad Pro 11-inch (M4) - Black: $299.00
• Sales Tax: $118.34

Total: $1,665.34

Website: Plattecanyonschools.org

Address: 1737 Co Rd 43, Bailey, CO 80421

Grade Level: K-5 Reading Intervention

Region: Central Mountains

Project Title: Reading Adventures!

Category: Literacy

Funding Amount Requested: $1,750

Project Description:
We would like to host a literacy night encouraging parents to join their students for a fun-filled evening of reading activities. The night will include dinner and engaging literacy activities for students and their families. At the end of the night, each student will have the opportunity to pick out a book at their reading level to take home, encouraging them to continue their reading adventures even when they are at home. Our goal is to show students that reading can take them to amazing places!

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Impact:
This event will help foster a love of reading among students and give parents the tools to support their children's literacy development at home. By providing a fun, interactive night of reading activities and sending students home with a book, we aim to make reading a central part of their lives. Parents will also leave with strategies for helping their children improve reading comprehension across different genres.

Use of Funds:
- **Food for 300 attendees:** $750 (from Shamrock Food Distribution)
- **200 Books for students (Scholastic bundle packs):** $1,000

Website: https://ges.egsd.org/en-US

Address: 241 W Diamond Ave, B2240 Granby, CO 80446

Grade Level: K-3 Early Literacy Coach

Region: Central Mountains

Project Title: Secret Stories Phonics Support

Category: Literacy

Funding Amount Requested: $2000

Project Description:
Students at Granby Elementary School are working hard to learn their letters, sounds, and spelling rules. When learners are able to connect the skills they are learning to emotions and background knowledge, the learning sticks better. Secret Stories connects sounds and their spelling to experiences students bring, to create stronger learning pathways in the brain. This will help our students become better readers and writers so that they can go from 'learning to read' to 'reading to learn'.

From www.thesecretstories.com: Secret Stories is NOT a program, but embedded mnemonic tools that work seamlessly alongside any systematic and explicit reading or phonics curricula to "speed-up" access to more of the phonics code kids need to read!

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Impact:
Granby Elementary School is a Title I school nestled high in the Rockies. We are a resort community and many of the parents of our students work in the service industry, from cleaning to restaurant to retail and more. Last spring, 50% of our students performed at or above grade level on our Dibels 8 literacy benchmarking tool. 50% of students performed below or well below benchmark. This fall, 39% of our students are showing performance at or above grade level using Dibels and 61% performed below or well below benchmark. While our students are learning throughout the year, the learning is not as much as we need to see. A tool that will help increase that learning and provide it in a more memorable way so that it is maintained over the summer is critical for allowing classroom teachers to move into grade level instruction and spend less time reviewing skills students previously demonstrated. It is imperative that our students become strong readers so as they get older, they can have the skills they need to make the switch from "learning to read" to "reading to learn".

Use of Funds:
Receiving this grant would allow us to purchase Secret Stories materials for our K-2 classrooms as well as for our K-2 interventionists who meet with students one on one or in small groups. We have 3 teachers per grade level K-2. Receiving this grant would help 11 teachers provide instruction that has a greater impact on students.

School Website: moffatschools.org

Project Description:
Stephanie Abram is seeking funding to transform her high school English classroom into a more engaging and inclusive learning space. Located in one of the poorest counties in Colorado, Moffat School serves a diverse group of students with various learning needs. This project aims to introduce Manga Shakespeare graphic novels, gamified learning through platforms like Blooket, Kahoot, and Pixton, as well as providing an Audible subscription to support auditory learners. Additionally, a Watcom pen tablet will enhance interactive lessons, and funding for a reliable teacher computer is requested to improve classroom efficiency.

Project Proposal:

• Manga Shakespeare: Graphic novel versions of Shakespeare's works to make classic literature accessible and engaging for all students, particularly those who struggle with traditional texts.
• Online Subscriptions: Access to Blooket, Kahoot, Audible, and Pixton will gamify learning, catering to different learning styles and increasing student motivation.
• Watcom Pen Tablet: This tool will allow for interactive and hands-on lessons that accommodate diverse learning preferences.
• Teacher Computer: A reliable computer is essential for conducting lessons efficiently, as the current one is unreliable and no longer functional for classroom needs.

Budget Narrative:

• Manga Shakespeare (Romeo and Juliet, Hamlet, Much Ado About Nothing): $600
• Subscriptions (Pixton, Kahoot Premium, Blooket Premium, Audible): $450
• Watcom Pen Tablet: $100
• Computer: $850

Website: fortmorgank12.com

Address: 930 Sherman Street, Fort Morgan, CO 80723

Grade Level: 3rd Grade - General Education

Region: Northeast

Project Title: Make Learning Magical!

Category: Literacy

Funding Amount Requested: $1,200

Project Description:
As a teacher at a rural Title 1 school, many of my students are below grade level in math and reading. It is vital to provide hands-on, fun, and engaging learning opportunities to help them succeed. My classroom serves students who are part of both our ELL and special education communities, and having access to necessary tools and supplies is critical for teaching success. Unfortunately, as a small rural school, funds are limited, and I often use my own money to provide these resources. My classroom is in need of additional math manipulatives, personal whiteboards, and specialized writing tools to support student learning.

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Impact:
These materials will help students who need hands-on learning experiences to grasp basic math and literacy concepts. The new manipulatives, writing tools, and classroom supplies will enhance their learning experiences, improve engagement, and support students struggling with pencil grip and basic handwriting skills. By providing fun and engaging lessons with the proper tools, I hope to build my students' confidence and academic success.

Use of Funds:
- ELL Classroom Labels
- Pocket Chart
- Class set of dry erase markers
- Construction paper
- Sight word game
- Place value disks
- Multiplication dominos
- Reading comprehension dice
- Multiplication boards
- Fraction measuring cups
- Twist and write pencils for grip assistance
- Rubber pencil grips
- Chart paper
- Number line boards
- Class set of pre-sharpened pencils
- Class set of markers
- Personal dry erase boards
- National Geographic books and reference materials for the classroom

Website: eaton.k12.co.us

Address: 225 Juniper, Eaton, CO 80615

Grade Level: Literacy K - 5

Region: Northeast

Project Title: Dynamite Decoding

Category: Literacy

Funding Amount Requested: $2,000

Project Description:
Eaton Elementary School is located in Eaton, Colorado, about 10 miles north of Greeley. Our school services students who need language acquisition skills, support for special needs, and low-income families. This project will impact and empower our students by providing decodable books-books with controlled text designed to help students become more fluent readers-into their hands. These books extend lessons and give students direct application and practice of the phonics skills they are learning.

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Impact:
We are a Title 1 school, and 25% of our population is on a READ plan, which means these students have a significant reading deficiency and require intensive interventions. Receiving this grant would allow us to put actual decodable books in students' hands, reinforcing their phonics, reading, and comprehension skills. Students see themselves as readers when they have a physical book, and these books will target their specific learning needs while offering ample decoding practice.

Use of Funds:
This grant would allow us to purchase 6 different levels with 6 different titles, 10 books each. Each level costs $286.55, and shipping is 15% of the total. This would total 360 books. The total cost is $1,977.20.

Website: www.weld8.org

Address: 200 S. Fulton Ave. Ft. Lupton, CO 80621

Grade Level: PreK - Post Secondary (Vision)

Region: Northeast

Project Title: Reading Intervention Support

Category: Literacy

Funding Amount Requested: $2,000

Project Description:
I work as the Teacher of the Visually Impaired in Ft. Lupton, Dacono, Hudson, and Keenesburg in northern Colorado. We have a diverse population of students, with very few who have a visual impairment. Since July 2023, TVIs have been provided an opportunity to serve students who don't have a typical "visual impairment" but instead might still be impacted by a visual condition. One such condition has been identified by a team of researchers, showing that those who do not have a dominant eye are likely to develop reading challenges. There is possibly a way to identify these students, using techniques that are approved by the Colorado Department of Education for nurses to use during their traditional vision screening. This grant would help fund the statistical analysis of the results we are gathering.

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Impact:
When students are screened by the school nurse using a photoscreener, a portion of the assessment results can be used to potentially identify students who will likely flip letters, such as b and d, p and q, or E and 3. Rather than participating in traditional vision therapy, reading intervention strategies could be used to help train the brain and the eyes to read in the proper direction. Early results with students who have completed this program have been very promising. There is potential to use this technique with more students, but it would require a study. This grant would provide the funds necessary to complete the statistical analysis of the results gathered by local nurses.

Use of Funds:
The cost to complete the statistical analysis would range from $1,000 to $2,000. I have made inquiries at the local teaching college and hope to have a definite price by the time the grant would be provided.

School Website: deltaschools.com

Project Description:
Tessa Arnett, a 6th and 7th-grade teacher at Delta Middle School in Delta, CO, is seeking funding to enhance her classroom's non-fiction book collection with captivating STEM-themed books. In today's world, sparking a passion for STEM subjects at a young age is critical to developing future innovators and problem solvers. With additional funding, Tessa aims to provide her students with high-quality, engaging non-fiction books that will inspire curiosity and build essential literacy skills. These books will cover a wide range of science and technology topics, preparing students for a future filled with opportunities in STEM fields.

Project Proposal:
The "Imagination Ignited!" project seeks to purchase a diverse selection of non-fiction STEM books for the classroom, promoting a love of science and technology through high-interest literature. By incorporating these books into the curriculum, students will explore complex scientific concepts in an accessible and engaging way. The collection will feature diverse voices and perspectives, ensuring all students see themselves reflected in the content and are inspired by a variety of role models. These books will not only support classroom instruction but also help students connect theoretical knowledge with real-world applications, fostering a lifelong love for learning.

Budget Narrative:

Books for Classroom Collection:
The funds will be used to purchase non-fiction STEM books from the teacher's selected Amazon cart, which includes titles such as Steve Spangler's Super-Cool Science Experiments for Kids, Math Riddles For Smart Kids, and National Geographic Kids Almanac 2025. The total amount requested is $560 to cover a variety of books that will spark student interest and enhance their learning experience.

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Amazon Cart Link:
Link to Amazon Cart

School Website: dms.deltaschools.com

Project Description:
Kendra Urich, an English Language Arts teacher at Delta Middle School in Delta, CO, is seeking funding to provide her students with access to a diverse range of novels through a classroom set of Kindle Paperwhites. Delta Middle School serves over 500 students each year, and access to current, diverse literature is often limited. By integrating Kindle Paperwhites into the classroom, students will have access to thousands of books, promoting literacy, enhancing learning experiences, and supporting differentiated instruction. This initiative will empower students to develop critical thinking skills, improve comprehension, and cultivate a lifelong passion for reading.

Project Proposal:
The "Kindles in the Classroom" project aims to bridge the gap in access to literature for students in rural areas where resources are limited. By providing students with Kindle Paperwhites, we can create a dynamic and engaging learning environment that promotes literacy. Each Kindle can store a vast library of books, allowing students to explore different genres and authors, which will improve their reading comprehension, vocabulary, and critical thinking skills. This project is inspired by the book The Book Whisperer by Donalyn Miller, which encourages students to read 40 books per year-an aspiration made possible with the right tools.

Budget Narrative:

The project will fund 18 Kindle Paperwhites for classroom use, priced at $99 each (excluding tax). These Kindles will be utilized in each class period to ensure all students have access to a variety of books and reading opportunities.

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Teacher: Mark Liebenthal
School: Olathe Middle High School
District: Montrose County School District
District Website: https://www.mcsd.org/olathemiddlehighschool_home.aspx
School Address: Olathe Middle and High School, 410 Highway 50, PO Box 546, Olathe, Colorado 81425
Grade Level: AVID elective grades 6-10
Region: Southwest
Project Title: New Chairs of Excellence!
Category: Literacy
Amount Requested: $1,500

Project Description:
This project is to replace the chairs in my AVID classroom with chairs that are safe for students to sit in! Our school is a small, rural school with wonderful students, but few opportunities. The chairs in our classroom are old and cracked-when chair backs are cracked, they pull girls' hair and pinch students. Good chairs make a class worth coming to!

Proposal:
Although we are grateful for the chairs we have, it is time to replace these chairs with new, safe chairs. My students are teachable, receptive, and invested. New chairs-comfortable chairs-will be a greater encouragement to our Olathe AVID students!

Budget Breakdown:
The grant provided will be used for the purchase and shipping of 20 brand new chairs.

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Teacher: Kerry Scales
School: Children's Kiva Montessori
District: Montezuma-Cortez
District Website: childrenskiva.org
School Address: 601 Mildred St, Cortez, CO 81321
Grade Level: Librarian/ESS
Region: Southwest
Project Title: Small Library with no Budget
Category: Literacy
Amount Requested: $2,000

Project Description:
I started the first library at Children's Kiva with a federal grant. My budget depends on book fairs, that only return 30% of our profit. My passion is to get all kids to love books and reading, but especially reluctant readers. It is imperative to keep their love of books alive during these formative years. Our school is K-8, but I am targeting 4th-8th grade, which is my challenging reading group. I would love to have the money to buy the books they request, to keep them coming back.

Project Goals:
My goal is to increase our ALA test scores of all of our students by giving them non-required reading material. I find that vocabulary increases immensely by reading for pleasure. I need funding to keep my library collection up-to-date with current reading material for all the students. Currently, I have no budget, and therefore cannot expand my library collection from the last two years. $2,000 would cover all of our needs for this year.

Budget Breakdown:

• Books for 4th-8th grade: Majority of the funds will go towards enriching the collection for this group
• Library Supplies: Labels, tape, book ends, book covers, etc.

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School Website: bes.rfsd.k12.co.us

Project Description:
Megan Talbott, a 2nd-grade teacher at Basalt Elementary School in Basalt, CO, is seeking funding to provide decodable readers for take-home book bags to help her students practice phonics skills at home. Decodable readers are a critical resource for students learning to read by helping them systematically develop phonics and reading fluency. With 63% of her students being Hispanic/Latino and 42% being emerging bilinguals, these resources will be invaluable in supporting their literacy development. However, the current curriculum does not provide take-home resources, and many students lack the necessary practice at home. This project will supply decodable books for Megan's classroom, ensuring that students can continue building their reading skills outside of school.

Project Proposal:
The "Decodables for Take-Home Bags" project will allow Megan to purchase a variety of high-interest decodable books that align with the phonics skills her students are learning in school. These books will be sent home in take-home bags for daily reading practice, promoting fluency and comprehension. This initiative will benefit 84 students across five 2nd-grade classrooms at Basalt Elementary, helping all students, especially emerging bilinguals, to grow as readers. With access to engaging, level-appropriate books at home, students will develop strong reading foundations necessary for future academic success.

Budget Narrative:

• Flyleaf Publishing: $525.26 (4 book sets) + $25.22 shipping = $550.48
• High Noon Books: $432 (9 book sets)
• Heggerty: $343 (6 book sets) + $27.44 shipping = $370.44
• Total: $1,352.92

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School Website: steamboatschools.net

Project Description:
Heather Overstake, a dedicated educator at Strawberry Park Elementary in Steamboat Springs, CO, is seeking funding for the "Little Learners Books & Games" project. These decodable fiction and nonfiction books, along with interactive games, are designed to help children apply their phonics knowledge, supporting fluency, vocabulary development, and oral language skills. Aligned with the Science of Reading, these materials offer engaging stories and activities that reinforce the Five Pillars of Reading-essential skills that form the foundation for early literacy and academic success.

Project Proposal:
The Little Learners decodable books and games will help students grow as readers by providing engaging, systematic phonics practice. These resources are designed to make reading fun while reinforcing critical reading skills, such as fluency, vocabulary, and oral language. The games included in this project will offer students the opportunity to practice what they learn in a hands-on, interactive way, helping them to become proficient readers. By supporting this project, you will give young learners at Strawberry Park Elementary the tools they need to succeed in their literacy journey.

Budget Narrative:

• Stages 1-7: Set of 1 (Total of 61 books): $450.00
• Sound Swap Word Game and Word Chaining Guide: $65.00
• Tim's Quiz: $65.00
• Read, Write, and Draw: $95.00

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School Website: ssms.steamboatschools.net

Project Description:
Meghan Alexander, a Literacy Intervention Specialist at Steamboat Springs Middle School in Steamboat Springs, CO, is seeking funding to enhance literacy instruction for her students, many of whom have IEPs or reading deficits. The project aims to provide headphones with microphones for students to record their reading, track vocabulary development using the Morpheme Magic assessment book, and subscribe to WordWall, a platform for creating interactive learning activities. These tools will improve reading fluency and vocabulary development, empowering students to become more confident readers and learners.

Project Proposal:
The project focuses on improving literacy outcomes for students with diverse needs through a multi-faceted approach:

Reading Fluency: Headphones with microphones will allow students to record and listen to their reading, helping them improve fluency, phrasing, and prosody.
Vocabulary Development: The Morpheme Magic assessment book will help track progress in understanding word origins and meanings, reinforcing key vocabulary skills.
Interactive Learning: A WordWall subscription will offer access to engaging and interactive learning games, enhancing vocabulary and comprehension skills in a fun, interactive format.

Budget Narrative:
The funding will be used to purchase the following items:

• 10 Headphones with Microphones: $186.99
• Morpheme Magic Assessment Book: $37.00
• WordWall Subscription: $129.60 (for one year)
• Total: $353.59

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School Website: southroutt.k12.co.us

Project Description:
This year, South Routt Elementary in Northwest Colorado has expanded to two 4th-grade classes instead of one, but there is only one set of textbooks to share between them. Both teachers are new to the district, with one being a first-year teacher. This grant will ensure that all students have equal access to critical math and history resources, particularly for the school's large number of low-income and English Language Learner (ELL) students. Without these textbooks, teachers would need to rely on piecemeal lesson plans and excessive photocopying, impacting students' learning experiences.

Project Proposal:
The requested funds will be used to purchase consumable math workbooks for every student, along with history textbooks. The math books are part of the Bridges curriculum and consist of three components: one for math fluency, one for independent problem-solving practice, and one for homework. The history book, titled Colorado Story, will provide students with a comprehensive understanding of state history, which is crucial to their academic growth.

Budget Narrative:
The project aims to purchase 17 main texts, 6 math fluency books, and 9 homework books for a total of $272.16. In addition, 15 Colorado Story history books will be purchased for $255. This brings the total cost to $530, plus shipping costs.

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School Website: sgs.steamboatschools.net

Principal: Joe Laliberte
Principal Email: jlaliberte@ssk12.org

Project Description:
I would like to have a library of bilingual books for my world language classroom. I currently only have about 10 books in my library, which is not sufficient as I want to implement a new routine of reading for the first 5 to 10 minutes of class using books from the bilingual library. Exposure to languages and literature from around the world is essential to establishing global citizenship and fostering learners who are interested in other cultures and languages.

Proposal:
I have 120 students every day in my world language classroom. I would like to start each class with silent reading time, where students can pick out a book to read. Reading provides exposure to new words, concepts, themes, and cultures, and I hope it will spark vibrant discussions during class.

Budget Breakdown:

$1,500 will be used to buy a mix of bilingual books with different themes, SEL (Social-Emotional Learning) bilingual books, and a diverse cultural representation of bilingual books.

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School Website: Plateau Valley Elementary

Project Description:
I would love to create a calming space where my students can feel a sense of belonging and acceptance! A place where they can come in, make themselves comfortable, and curl up with a good book! Several of our students come from home lives that are not conducive to their personal best, so I want to provide that within my classroom.

Proposal:
I want to create a space that welcomes all students and encourages them to become "readers." By adding flexible seating, lighting, newer books, and creating a sense of family and belonging, I hope to foster an environment where students can thrive academically and emotionally. This classroom will also serve as a "safe place" for students, complete with a hygiene area and snacks, making it a space they feel comfortable in.

Budget Breakdown:
With $2,000, I will purchase the following:

• Couch and alternative seating options
• New classroom lighting
• New books for the library
• Hygiene area for students
• Snacks
• New classroom decor with calming colors

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Teacher: Sarah Beurskens
School: Steamboat Springs Middle School
District: Routt RE-2
District Website: https://ssms.steamboatschools.net/
School Address: 39610 AMETHYST DR, Steamboat Springs, CO 80487
Grade Level: 6th Lang Arts/Social Studies
Region: Northwest
Project Title: Bring LIFE to History & Stories!
Category: Literacy
Amount Requested: $900

Project Description:
I want to bring history and literature to life through drama. I've done this in the past, and I can't tell you how excited the kids are to don a beard and be Magellan spanning the treacherous waters of the horn of South America or to wear a feather headdress as Montezuma getting stoned (wadded up paper balls) by his people. This type of "play" learning helps with so many aspects of education. SSMS is situated in the Rocky Mountains and our students have so many social emotional needs. We also have a large population of EB and ELL students. Drama benefits both of these populations by helping the kids bond and have fun and by making the words come to life. My other purpose is to get students' heads out of their electronic devices and to engage with people, movement, learning, and laughter! It's silly and fun and oh, so engaging!

Project Justification:
I'm requesting funding for a wardrobe of costumes. These costumes will help history and literature come to life while kids become actual people from the past. Having costumes unique to the period will help us to think more deeply about the colors and materials they chose, the relationship between the environment and the humans, and the economic impacts of the clothing and styles they wore. So much of these decisions had impacts on history. For example, Marco Polo traveled across Asia to China for, among other things, their beautiful silks. Europeans wanted more of these beautiful materials, but when Muslims gained control of the trade routes and raised the prices, the Pope ordered the Crusades to take back the trade routes.

Demographics:
I teach at Steamboat Springs Middle School. We have 440 students in 6th-8th grade. I teach 50 students out of 140 in language arts and social studies in the sixth grade. These costumes would be for all of the students to use.

Outcomes and Impact:
I could list several standards here, but my main hope is that kids will be inspired to study history and literature and that they will remember participating in and acting out these different stories and historical events.

Total: $900

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Website: www.egsd.org

Address: 241 W Diamond Ave. Granby, CO 80446

Grade Level: 5th Grade Reading, Writing, Math

Region: Northwest

Project Title: Student Engagement

Category: Literacy

Funding Amount Requested: $760

Project Description:
I am asking for funds to help engage students in learning. When students are engaged, their ability to learn increases. Sensory stress balls and stickers enable kids to touch and feel while keeping their focus on lessons. Using dry erase boards helps kids stay on task and participate. By providing students with their own copy of *The Lightning Thief*, they can become more involved during read-aloud time. The book is the first in a series of five, which will hook students to continue reading. Our school serves kids from various socioeconomic backgrounds and family situations in Granby, Grand Lake, Tabernash, and Winter Park, Colorado.

Impact:
My students are diverse in reading and math abilities, motivation, and family dynamics. Many face obstacles such as anxiety, depression, and social-emotional struggles. Sensory tools like seating, fidgets, and engagement items enable students to focus more and be involved in their learning. Reading *The Lightning Thief* last year excited students, especially after watching the Disney series adaptation. Putting this novel in their hands will enhance their reading experience and motivate them to read more independently.

Use of Funds:
I am requesting $760 to purchase sensory devices, novels, and classroom supplies. This includes: - **Novels**: *The Lightning Thief* books to increase excitement for reading
- **Sensory tools**: Stress balls, fidgets, and other items to help with focus and reduce anxiety
- **Classroom supplies**: Dry erase markers, pencil sharpener

Website: NorthRouttCharter.org

Address: 26990 Eagle Lane, Clark, CO 80428

Grade Level: 4th and 5th

Region: Northwest

Project Title: 40 Books: Our Goal this Year!

Category: Literacy

Funding Amount Requested: $948

Project Description:
Dan Kohler is requesting funds to enrich the classroom library at North Routt Community Charter School, located in a rural area where access to books is limited. His goal is for each student to read at least 40 books this year across a variety of genres. However, the current library collection does not offer enough engaging books to foster a love of reading. With a diverse group of students, ranging from early readers to those at an 8th-grade reading level, Dan hopes to provide a wide selection of "just right" books that will rekindle the students' love for reading. This project aims to introduce popular authors like Paulsen, DiCamillo, Creech, and Spinelli to inspire and excite students about books.

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Impact:
This project will directly impact the 4th and 5th-grade students at North Routt Community Charter School by providing them with a variety of engaging books. The expanded collection will cater to different reading levels and interests, helping students reach their goal of reading 40 books this year. By offering more diverse genres and topics, Dan hopes to reignite the students' passion for reading and foster a lifelong love for literature. The progress of the students will be tracked, and books that resonate with the class will be shared and recommended by students to their peers, building a reading community within the classroom.

Use of Funds:
Dan has carefully selected books from websites like "Books that Don't Bore 'Em," ThriftBooks, and others that offer discounts to maximize the number of titles available. The funds will be used to purchase a wide range of books that accommodate early readers as well as more advanced students, ensuring that every student has access to books that excite and challenge them.