Gaining Resources with DonorsChoose.org

A few years ago, we posted about the crowdfunding site DonorsChoose.org. This is such a great resource that I wanted to revisit the topic. With budget cuts and a greater emphasis on using technology and STEM in the classroom, finding other avenues for funding is a necessity.

Since the previous post, we now have several teachers in each of our district's buildings who have created DonorsChoose.org accounts and many who have had projects successfully funded! Funded projects have included resources like robots, Chromebooks, iPads, green-screening equipment, 3D printing pens, and more! Many of these projects took advantage of match offers where companies, foundations, or anonymous donors fund 50% of the project. Creating projects with match offers is one of the best tips out there!

Botley the Robot

Little Bits R2-D2 Droid Inventor

In addition to match offers, there are also other ways to find funding besides individual donors.

Google has been offering some classroom rewards through DonorsChoose.org ($100-$300!!!) for completing their coding and applied digital skills activities. 

Check out this one if you teach grades 4-8: Classroom Rewards for Coding Activities with Google

and this one if you teach grades 6-12: Classroom Rewards for Google's Applied Digital Skills Activities

Angie and I are currently DonorsChoose.org Ambassadors and would be more than happy to help you get started with an account and/or posting your first project. DonorsChoose.org has even given us $5 starter donations to add to your first project! 

If you'd like to get started on your own, here's a quickstart guide! To learn more about how DonorsChoose.org works, the impact it's had, and more detailed steps to posting a project, check out the slideshow below!

I know there are many of you who have had projects funded! Please feel free to share the resources you've gained in the comments below!