I want to share with you an important project my students are participating in this holiday season. This year, my eighth-grade classes are connecting with two local families in need for the holiday season. Through this student-led project, students are communicating in Spanish with the families by email and postal-service letters to learn more about their culture, what brought them to Steamboat, and their needs.
My students have been problem-solvers and innovators in their efforts to figure out how to truly make this holiday season special for both families. Their goal is to show the holiday spirit of giving as well as alleviate financial stress for the families. They are meeting with over a dozen businesses in town, making fundraising presentations to managers and business owners.
Through this project, they are learning skills like professionalism, preparation, and empathy—skills that will serve them well in the future. Their fundraising pitches have resulted in donated items and gift cards.They are also earning money through GoFundMe campaigns as well as bake sales at Natural Grocers, which have generated over $1400 between the two classes.
The motivation and drive of these kids to make a difference is incredible! They come up with new ideas every day and take the initiative to make them happen. I am beyond inspired and excited for what has taken place in my classroom this month.
