By Ebony Bellamy
“Teachers put the needs of their students in front of their own in order to improve the value of their education,” says Andrew, a 14-year-old member of DoSomething.org. “They make so many sacrifices each year, and it is time us students let them know how much we appreciate everything they do for us.”
We all know at least one teacher who has gone above and beyond to make their classroom a fun, exhilarating environment and has opened their heart to their students. Along with everything else they do, American teachers spend over $1.6 BILLION a year of their own money on classroom supplies. For science teachers, new lab equipment is especially important for learning and especially expensive to buy.
That’s why DoSomething.org has launched the Thanks a Billon campaign, which is powered by 3M, to show science teachers just how appreciated they are. Through the campaign, thousands of students are using this holiday season to give thanks and give back to their favorite science teacher.
Andrew, 14
Thanks a Billion activates young people to write thank-you cards for their favorite science teachers. On the inside, they include the link to DonorsChoose.org, where teachers can crowdfund important supplies for new projects to make their classroom even better.
Shelby, 18
“My teacher, Mr. Cunningham, is so generous and dedicated to his job. He spends so much time planning lessons and activities for a full understanding of the material from his students,” said DoSomething member Shelby, 18. “I just believe that all of his hard work deserves a big thanks in return because he is a great role model and provider for the students at my school.”
As a bonus, students can nominate their teacher for a DonorsChoose.org grant. 90 teachers nominated by DoSomething members will receive $500 grants for their favorite science teacher, and one lucky teacher will be selected to win a $5,000 DonorsChoose.org gift card.
Analisa, 17
DoSomething members like Analisa are not only appreciative but understand the selfless acts their science teachers do for them.
“The woman right next me is no ordinary woman. Claudia Garza is a selfless and loving teacher who stops at no boundaries for the success of her students,” says the 17-year-old. “From buying our AP Chemistry 5 Steps to a Five books and other supplies, to coming up with innovative and mind-blowing experiments, she embodies what a true science teacher is. She's the reason for planting a love for science in me, and I am forever grateful for what she's done for me and the many others.”
John-Miller, 19, understands why teachers need to know how appreciated they are and was eager to participate in the campaign.
“This matters to me, because teachers work hard every day to get me to college and out into the real world,” he says. “I would like to help them in any way even if it is just a simple thank you card or nominating them to receive a gift card for classroom supplies.”
John-Miller, 19
This holiday season, do something for your favorite science teacher like these DoSomething members have. Your teachers work hard everyday to provide you with the most fun and eye-opening learning environment, so let’s show them how appreciative we are.
Sign up to learn how to recognize your teacher, see other members’ cards, and find out how you could win a $5,000 scholarship from DoSomething.org. PLUS, DoSomething is awarding teachers $50,000 in DonorsChoose.org gift cards for classroom projects and supplies, and you can nominate your teacher to win!
Ebony Bellamy is the writing intern at DoSomething.org. She graduated with a bachelor’s degree in magazine journalism and hopes to get her master’s degree in social or environmental journalism next year.