Hello generous donors!

Since graduating from the University of Pittsburgh in April, I have jumped headfirst into the world of public school teaching. As I navigate copious acronyms and seemingly never-ending professional development sessions, the reason I came into this work is confirmed time and time again. Teacher jargon and long days are undoubtedly worth it when, at the end of the day, I know I will be in front of students in a few short weeks teaching the three things I'm most passionate about: literature, writing, and social justice.

When I decided to shift my career path from writing — journalism, magazine editing, and fiction — to education, I made a commitment. If I am the purported lover of writing/reading I claim to be, I must pursue the humbling work of helping others love writing/reading, too.

As I settle into my new home in Baltimore, my commitment takes the form of becoming a middle school English teacher at Dr. Carter G. Woodson Elementary/Middle School. Here, I will elevate students' reading and writing levels to help them gain access to more and greater opportunities, including the opportunity to read and write for pleasure, for work, and for academic, social, or justice reasons. I care deeply about my students, who I have yet to meet, because I care deeply about the importance of equitable access to words.

As you consider donating to my classroom, please consider the ways in which your life would be different if you had graduated high school with a much lower reading level. Consider the ways in which your life would be different if you didn't have the reading skills to analyze your first contract, or the writing skills to advance to a leadership position at your job. Consider what your life might look like if you hadn't graduated high school at all.

I thank you all for considering donating to my classroom. Your money will be used for instrumental classroom items like pencils, notebooks, name tags, books, furniture, and more. Please feel free to reach out to me if you have any questions about my work or how to donate.

Love,
Ms. Hannah