Financing Classrooms: Crowdfunding

Since May, crowdfunding appeals using the keywords “wishlist,” “DonorsChoose” and #ClearTheList have increased by 74.44%.

 

Teachers continue to turn to sites like DonorsChoose to meet the material needs of their classrooms.

  • “Doing my first @DonorsChoose and so overwhelmed. This is like the 6th time I’ve tried to set one up. Do I have to make a project for each store? I can’t put all of it in one cart to check out?” —Middle School ELA Teacher
  • “Over the summer, I declutter my house and try to sell the things on FB Marketplace. I use this money to fund my classroom for the fall. Every penny counts because the needs for our students grow every year.” —Teacher in Oklahoma
  • “Anyone else on #teachertwitter just not feeling up to peddling their lists? I feel so fortunate to have received items in the past but it felt like a summer job. How are you creating boundaries and still helping your classroom?” —Early Childhood Teacher in Pennsylvania
  • “This poor teacher was bullied for ‘begging’ bc she shared her wishlist, so she can’t post it on her FB anymore… clearly people have no clue what it’s like to stock a classroom. Let’s help her out!” —Elementary School Teacher in Florida
  • “Have you seen teachers sharing stories of negative comments regarding their Amazon Wish List? Feeling like a  Mama Bear. Don’t mess with us!” —Teacher
  • “Even if schools were not just adequately but GENEROUSLY funded, donations would still be a thing. And I’d be okay with that! It’s the NEED for donations of BASIC SUPPLIES that is a problem.” —High School ELA Teacher in Tennessee
  • “Want proof that classrooms aren’t funded fully? Why is #clearthelist a thing? I appreciate those who help fulfill teachers’ wish lists BUT it shouldn’t be needed! Classrooms should be fully funded. Is there any other profession where this happens?” —Special Education Teacher in Iowa
  • “I don’t enjoy asking, but I also don’t enjoy spending money out of pocket (did today). I always do & just hope someone can help a little. It does bother me that it’s mostly teachers helping one another. I’m hopeful that those with more means than can pitch in for OUR kids.” —Elementary School Teacher in California