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Goal

The goal of this project is to increase student awareness and exposure to a diverse variety of characters in literature. Children’s books that teach and model diversity through race, gender, culture, disabilities, and family dynamics are more important than ever. This project will support the national “We Need Diverse Books” movement and promote literature that reflects and honors the lives of all young people.  

What will be done with my students

The thirty-six books included in this project were specifically and strategically selected to act like both mirrors and windows on the world. Through read alouds, children will be able to reflect on their own lives as well as gain new insight about the lives of “others”. The second grade curriculum focuses on character education traits including kindness, respect, perseverance, justice, and cooperation. Reading these books to students will lead to powerful discussions about inclusion, equity, and empathy in a non-threatening environment. The goal would be to expand the impact of this project by not just limiting the books to one classroom, but to all of the second grade classrooms. Teachers will share access to the books, incorporate them into read aloud time, and display them to continue fostering positive student conversation and development. 

Benefits to my students

Research shows that when children see others who initially seem different, they learn about them and get closer to them through their story; reducing both stereotypes and the negative connotation associated with being different. Books should not just be about “others” though; simultaneously, they should provide a glimpse of who a child might become- thus creating a sense of validation. Having this diverse collection of children’s books will benefit all children through either representation or exposure to different backgrounds that they would not have the opportunity to so easily encounter. I believe that when children feel empowered through literature, they grow up with the mindset that anything is possible; and, they would look at all of their friends and think the same for them. Using these books year after year will lead to more inclusive classrooms, grade levels, and eventually a more inclusive school-body.  

Budget Narrative

The budget to successfully implement this project is reflective of thirty-six books, stands to display the books in the classroom, and storage bins to ensure the books are well taken care of and can be continually used in the coming school years. All prices are based off of Amazon-sold products.  

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