Tell us a little about you, your class and their needs

After eight years in third grade (fifteen years teaching in all), I am excited to move to first grade in August. I absolutely love teaching in my building, which is a diverse (over half of our learners are multilingual!), high poverty Title I building. While basic supplies like pencils and crayons are often supplied, more specific supplies and/or items to create a more inviting classroom space are typically not. I want to make my first grade classroom as welcoming and comfortable as I made my previous classrooms. I look forward to adding flexible seating options for the young learners, as well as continuing to add to my classroom library & additional items that are geared towards lower elementary. Any support would be amazing! Thank you for helping support my students!

I am going into my 16th year teaching! I teach all day Pre-k (4 year olds) and I am just looking for more organization and fun things for my classroom

mtrader@waukeeschools.org

I am moving to first grade after teaching 2nd grade for the past 6 years. I will have 25-27 students this year with a wide range of abilities. I am a teacher that believes in experiential learning and I strive to give my students experiences that differ from those they have had before. We hatch chicks, we plants produce in our aquaponics system, and we will travel the world on virtual field trips that have all been created to match our standards. I want my students to learn the content, but also how to be a kind humans whom are full of love and joy!

scrimmins315@gmail.com

Preschool- Special Education/General Ed combined room

This is a list that my co-teacher and I have created to help make our classroom more welcoming to all our students as we will be teaching 4 year olds with special needs as well as 4 year olds that do not have special needs. We will have 2 sections of students— 20 in each class, meeting for 3 hours each day. We are also implementing a new curriculum through Des Moines Schools, so some materials are to enhance that curriculum.

sarah.kelly@dmschools.org

My name is Sarah Kelly and I teach seventh and eighth grade science at Brody Middle School on the southside of Des Moines. Within our district we have a new curriculum rolling out that surfaces itself and inquiry-based science.My students are a wonderful group of seventh and eighth graders working in their inquiry-based science program. the needs on my list are for materials to help support our new science curriculum and help strengthen our students inquiry-based capabilities and make them strong scientist and learners.

nina.moser86@yahoo.com

I teach 6th, 7th, and 8th graders science and would love additional supplies to help keep science hands-on!

bdg011239@hotmail.com

Elementary special education

I teach special education and have a very low group of kindergartners coming in next fall! I love what I do every day & can't wait to meet my new friends!

mariah.button@dmschools.org

Community School Coordinator

I’m the Community School Coordinator for two schools within DMPS. While I run SEL groups, clubs, and after school programming, I’m also in charge of our donation based food and cloths pantry. Neither school qualify for assistance from the Iowa Food Bank, so I rely solely on donors to keep our food and clothing pantry up and running. Families can access it at any time without any questions.

bgoerend@waukeeschools.org

I teach middle school. I spend a lot out of my own pocket for things students can buy with their reward bucks.

I teach high school math: Algebra 1, Algebra 1 Lab (extra dose of math for students in need), and Trig/Algebra 2. I try to be as hands on as possible with students to keep class engaging. I have found using games and whiteboards are how I get students to engage, communicate, and find a joy of learning (especially math!).

aball@waukeeschools.org

I have taught kindergarten for 10 years and now moving to 3rd grade. I am excited for the change but there are several materials I am hoping for to help this new age group be successful.

bittnerfamily4@gmail.com

I have been teaching for 19 years. This coming year, I’m heading back to a classroom teach first grade after being out of the classroom a few years. I chose books to reflect diversity and social emotional topics, along with stem toys and other classroom needs to help our class be a safe, happy place to learn.

Many items on my list are books! I love to be able to introduce a variety of texts to my students, both as a class and individually.

For the past twelve years I taught third and second grade in Des Moines. This year I am making a switch closer to home and will be teaching fourth grade. I am excited to become more involved in my community and look forward to new opportunities. I will be working with a diverse group of fourth grade students. I hope to incorporate engaging activities and opportunities into our learning space to help bring their learning to life.

renita.darrah@dmschools.org

Hello I am a teacher at Lincoln High School and teaching Geometry for the first time. I am pretty excited. I am seeking a little extra motivation for my students to stay on task and off of their phones.

haley.wilcox@dmschools.org

https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/1VR6ZEQOZH2TI/?ref_=lol_ov_le&filter=unpurchased&sort=default&viewType=list#list-settings_1657058763333

I would love to get some more books that represent my students. Also more visual and hands on resources for my amazing scholars!

brittan.bell@dmschools.org

My classroom is full of amazing diverse learners each and every year. One thing that I do to empower learners is provide flexible seating to the students- each they get the power of CHOICE when they enter our classroom !

I teach a class of 4 & 5 year olds. Our school is going into it's 3rd year and still building our resources. I would greatly appreciate any help for my classroom. Thank you for your generosity and for investing in our children!

I teach 6th grade in a project-based learning school in Clive, Iowa. We focus our learning on solving real world problems that impact the world around us through problem solving, collaboration, and fun! A large portion of our student population speak other languages and come from all over the world. Bilingual materials are always useful in my room. I'm entering year nine of teaching, and many of my materials and books could use a refresh after many years of use. Thank you for your support!!!

We are the preschool extended daycare program that relies on UPK funding. Our classroom is in need of some supplies to complete our play zones and learning.

rahfeldttriolove@gmail.com

I work with young kindergartners. We learn through hands on activities, which requires many manipulative. We also have a positive behavior program. When students make great choices they can earn treasure box. I collect little items to put in the class treasure box. Any help with be greatly appreciated.

kaitlynscott01@gmail.com

I am headed in to my 9th year of teaching with Des Moines Public Schools, this will be my 5th year teaching 1st grade. I have many students that need a lot of social emotional support and crave routine. Each year many of our materials enter that "gently used" status and it would be great being able to replace many items and materials within our classroom.

chelsea.adams@molcs.org

Hello! I’m Chelsea, a kindergarten teacher at a private, parochial school in Des Moines. Our enrollment is increasing and so will have more students than ever before this fall. A lot of times people think that being at a private school means lots of money and resources, but it’s actually the opposite. We have to be more careful with our funds because they’re extremely limited. At my school over 75% of students receive financial aid. Parents paying tuition are less likely to make classroom donations because they are already paying tuition. I’d really appreciate any help I can receive for my classroom. My students deserve the world and the best resources to make their kindergarten experience the best it can be!

abigail.haigh@southeastpolk.org

6th grade-English as a Second Language

I teach students who are learning English as their second language. I often have families that are low income, new to the country and just finding their way. The needs vary from needing a little support to some families having not much of anything at all. Thank you for looking at my list and for supporting teachers. It helps immensely!

I teach at a title school where most of our students are below the poverty line. All students receive free lunch. Our school has a high population of students who come from families who do not speak English. I just want to be able to provide them with the supplies necessary to make it a great year.

awebb@waukeeschools.org

It’s my second year teaching in a great school district. Although it is waukee, we are a title 9 school so any bit helps. I like to give to my students as much as I can!!

Preschool/Preschool Special Education

I teach in a state funded preschool classroom for children ages 3-5 in Madrid, Iowa. My students all learn differently, and preschoolers learn best through hands on learning experiences.

The majority of my students live below the poverty line and cannot afford supplies. I want to get them everything they need for success

lhartwig@spirit-lake.k12.ia.us

Hello! My name is Lauren, and this is my eighth year teaching. I currently teach fourth graders in Spirit Lake, IA, a town of 5,000 residents in the Iowa Great Lakes. After being beach bums all summer while also sustaining friendships and making memories at historic Arnold’s Park, I would love to welcome these kids back to school with a classroom full of tools that allow them to be successful, curious, creative, and their best selves. Thank you so much for starting this campaign. I hope you clear the lists of every fellow teacher in need. We have big hearts, but I think yours may be bigger!

melissa.beck@northpolk.org

My classroom consists of 26 third graders in a rural district. I strive to provide needs beyond learning in a safe and inclusive learning environment as well as numerous opportunities to collaborate and learn from each other. These materials will benefit students for years to come.

Hello! I am a brand new teacher this year to a 4th grade classroom. I would love and appreciate anything to help me make this year the best! Thank you.

amanda.carnes@indianola.k12.ia.us

Being an early childhood teacher for 13 years, I truly LOVE guiding and learning from young children!! I am constantly searching for ways to make learning fun and meaningful. My students learn best with hands on materials and through play. We are very wiggly and need flexible seating to help do our best learning. I appreciate your consideration in supporting my students!

I am a full day Headstart classroom that serves 20 students each day for 6.5 hours. I work with the most vulnerable students that may have lots of trauma.
The items on my wish list will help to better prepare my classroom for the unique needs of my new students as well as helping to implement Conscious Discipline in our classroom.

ashley.bartlett2013@gmail.com

8th Grade Language Arts and Social Studies

I teach 8th grade at Urbandale Middle School. This year I will be teaching both Language Arts and Social Studies to general education students, gifted students, English Language Learners, Special Education students, At-Risk students and students with behavior issues. I'm looking forward to the year. I say I am a teacher by day, coach by night and awesome all the time.

I am a 6th year teacher who is going in to a new 5th grade position after 5 years in lower elementary. I could use the support to get some items that I can utilize in the upper grade classroom for my students! Thank you so much for your consideration! God Bless!

sara.clubb@ankenyschools.org

This year I really want to focus on my kids reading comprehension. I have found a great resource to teach this but it uses picture books read aloud to teach these skills. The resource alone is $100 without the books. Unfortunately I do not have the financial resources to purchase the books as well. Because of this, I have put together an Amazon wishlist of the books needed. If you would like to donate a book to our classroom, it would be greatly appreciated. Thank you for considering!

haley.coxbenson@dmschools.org

Hello! My name is Ms. Benson and I am a fourth grade teacher in Des Moines. I am 24 years old, and have been at the same school since I graduated! My school is in a high needs area, so I try to provide things for my students learning and wellbeing.

My classroom is located in the heart of Beaverdale and is grades 6-8th social studies and 8th grade religion. Middle school can be one of the most challenging times for students. I try to create a classroom culture that is inviting, accepting, cultivates growth and service. Please feel free to contribute to my wish list, send good vibes, or prayers! Thank you!

Hi! I’m in my 16th year of teaching 3rd grade to many ELL and lower income students. Our population has an array of different students with various needs. I’m a 2 year breast cancer survivor with a little boy of my own at home. Thanks for any and all help !

denise.baird@ankenyschools.org

I am a Kindergarten teacher, and love helping and watching my students learn! I work at a wonderful school that has great families, teachers and staff! I would love to have materials to promote social emotional learning, STEAM activities and to make learning fun!

kristin.lampkin@dmschools.org

I'm a teacher in a low socioeconomic building. My class size is typically mid 20s with very little parent involvement. I hope to provide everything my students need to have the best education I can give them.

I am starting my next 4th grade adventure with Des Moines Public Schools. I am looking to build my options for indoor recess, math manipulatives to build math skills, and other classroom supplies. I am new to this district, and do not yet know my full needs.

I have an amazing group of students working through social emotional/behavioral needs. We love to learn through books and play. We love sensory items to help process through what we are feeling.

kaitlyn.heitmeier@ankenyschools.org

I teach 1st Grade at Westwood Elementary in Ankeny, Iowa. My classroom is filled with wonderful 6 and 7 year olds that love to learn. The books on our wish list will help us to build our background knowledge as scientists! :)

I teach 4th Grade in a low income school with a small budget to purchase things to make our classroom feel like home. Please help me provide the warm, team-based environment for my kiddos.

jennaknudtson2@gmail.com

8th Grade Algebra/Geometry

I willing be teaching 8th grade Algebra and Geometry next year. Just looking for some things that will help with a few projects and activities in the classroom, as well as a few classroom supplies. Thanks so much!!!!

This is my first year as an elementary teacher, and I’m so excited! Because I’m a new section in our school, I have to start my classroom library from scratch. The students that I am serving come from a variety of cultures and the school that I am teaching at is 100% Free and Reduced Lunch. I am hoping to provide a great selection of books that include diverse characters for my students to see themselves in, since most picture books don’t include that diversity. Any help would be greatly appreciated and I am so grateful that movements like these even exist!

williamsr@urbandaleschools.com

15th year teaching. Always need more paper/notebooks, pencils, and expo markers for my class.

johnna.rinken@gmail.com

I have been teaching first grade for 11 years and I love it! First grade is a big year for reading. My kids need all of the resources they can get. Thanks in advanced.

brookelayton89@gmail.com

I teach second grade in a very rural school district. This is my 10th year teaching and on my list I have more storage and lower level reading books. I want to focus more on emotional social learning.

taylor.smith@dmschools.org

I am working towards flexible seating in my first grade classroom so that students can focus in ways that work for them while also getting their wiggles out. I want to implement more hands on and inquiry based activities to increase engagement. Thank you for your kindness and supporting my class!

teresa.steines@hotmail.com

I will have a class of 26 students this fall. This group of kiddos has been struggling with group work and kindness from Kindergarten on. My goal is to build our classroom community the first month of school by using a soft start (hands on collaborative items) and books on kindness. I want our classroom to be a family.

julie.wamsher@gmail.com

This will be my 9th year teaching 4th grade in Ames. I have 3 boys of my own, ages 14, almost 5, and 6 months. Right now, I am anticipating needs for my students based on past years, including more books, snacks, items for the beginning of the year that I usually purchase, and many other things. Thank you for considering helping out my fourth grade class!

emily.goode5305@gmail.com

I am about to go into my second year teaching. My first year went amazing but I learned a ton about new wants/needs. My goal is to make my classroom an environment that is safe and welcoming for every single one of my students. I want it to be their home away from home. I want them to be access to items to boost their learning and most of all, help them to continue to LOVE learning.

lindsey.carlson@kcsd.k12.ia.us

I work with amazing, funny high school kids who enjoy reading books from my classroom library. Our school library has been a little neglected over the years, so kids turn to me for recommendations for great reads. Thanks for considering my list!

The students that I work with rarely have access to learning outside of school so I want to make sure they are getting everything they can out of their time at school and have things they can take home with them to help further their learning!

tara.stemsrud@ames.k12.ia.us

I teach in Ames at the high school. The previous Move PE teachers didn’t teach a variety of activities. We have revamped the program to reflect lifelong movement and opportunities for all students. This way upon graduation they know a variety of ways to stay active that goes beyond just walking a track or doing fitness tests. But we don’t have the things! We need stuff to teach. Thanks for any and all help!

trisha.kempton@ankenyschools.org

I am moving up to 2nd grade this year, and am hoping to expand my library with more early chapter books!

English as a Second Language/English Language Learners

I am a first year teacher working in a Des Moines elementary school so I am starting from scratch and every little item or donation is greatly appreciated. I will be working with K-5 so I need supplies that range for all grade levels.

hayley.rankin@dmschools.org

I will be heading into this year as a 5th year teacher (2nd in 4th grade). This will also be my second year teaching at this school. I’m looking forward to continuing to getting to know more kids at my school to make and to make a difference with the community and families! Teaching truly is one of my favorite things. Each year I try to add things that I feel will benefit and nourish my incoming students. My goal is to create a space that is inviting, fun, engaging, and where students can feel they belong and they have a purpose.

amanda.nikkel@gmail.com

Kindergarten is my passion and brings me so much JOY! These kiddos are pushed so hard academically with such high standards, that I do everything in my power to make it the most fun year of their schooling experience. Lots of books and open-ended toys they can play with, build relationships from, and problem-solve help them become the best little learners and classroom community!

lexie.stevens50@gmail.com

I am starting at a new school this year and want to create an environment where my students can learn with hands on activities in a safe, calming space.

molly.sorenson@dcgschools.com

I am a 2nd grade teacher at Dallas Center-Grimes. I am going into my 11th year of teaching. I have 23 students in my classroom that focus on learning in all areas including math, reading, science, social studies, and social emotional learning.

This is my tenth year of teaching and my supplies are really beginning to wear out and break. I’d love to refresh my classroom organizational supplies!
I am also always on the hunt for the latest and greatest in children's literature so that my students are exposed to current books as well as diversity. Thank you!!

maddison.maddock@dcgschools.com

I am an elementary art teacher and have been teaching for twelve years. I hold a master's degree in art education and am focused on empowering students through the arts to create independently and grow as leaders. I have been working to slowly transform my classroom and teaching strategies to build a space that encourages strong studio habits. I care about helping students discover what motivates to create and would love your support in stocking my classroom centers!

Kelsey.j.hoeksema@gmail.com

I am a 5th grade teacher in Des Moines Public Schools. I am moving classrooms this year and need new decorations, school supplies, and snacks for the school year. Please help me!

sandkalmeida@gmail.com

A space for EVERYONE to feel safe and acquire language!

This is my first year teaching first grade! I serve a diverse group of students who come from varying socio-economic backgrounds. I aspire to have a classroom that is welcoming, calming, and predictable for all of my students. The basis of all student learning is through relationships, which is a priority in my classroom setting.

I’m a 4th grade teacher in Davenport, IA. This will be my 10th year teaching and I am needing to refresh some of my supplies to make sure all kids have what they need. My building has become a title 1 building for the upcoming school year! I want all students to have what they need to be successful!

K-5 Self Contained Special Education

I teach a self contained special education classroom, with grades that range from Kindergarten through fifth. Just about all of my students are diagnosed with Autism or some other intellectual disability. I just started in this position in January and wasn’t given much to start with. I have spent so much money to help provide my students with some learning materials, break materials, sensory toys, and just making sure I have everything I need for my classroom. My students are truly the best and never fail to make anyone laugh! Thank you so much for looking at my list and for putting this together for Iowa teachers!

Group of great kids that need indoor recess supplies!

7th grade Language Arts & Special Education

I’m starting my 10th year with DMPS. Many of students come from low income households so many of my student’s families can not afford basic school supplies. My students enjoy fidgets and are highly motivated by food and candy! Any and all donations are greatly appreciated by my students and myself! Thank you!

nicole.terrell@dmschools.org

This is my 7th year as a special education teacher for DMPS. I would love a few materials & books where my students can see themselves and the world in literature! Thank you so much!

hannah.krischel@dmschools.org

I work with students grades 3-5 who need academic and behavioral supports.

awestfall@dunkertonschools.org

Elementary Special Education

I am going into my 10th year as an elementary special education teacher. I do a lot of co-teaching and small group teaching. That means I am helping a lot of students along with the ones on my roster. I love what I do and where I teach!

High School Business Classes

I am a 5th year teacher looking to build my classroom library for my High School Business students. I try to be hands on in my class and use various games to help make class engaging for students.

burnham.barbara@yahoo.com

I am needing additional materials for a sensory room

2nd grade (first year teacher!)

This will be my first year teaching (& wow I’m excited!!) my classroom had to be totally overhauled from the beginning. I loved making my own but hard on the wallet on a freshly graduated student. I am really looking to have an extensive classroom library to help engage my students in the world of books! I’m also needing classroom decor and organization! Anything will help and be SO appreciated! My future students and I thank you already.

thewarthewarmans1999@gmail.com

My class has a lot of needs and I’m working to create a positive community.

I’m moving towns/districts in Iowa to teach 2nd grade in Carroll. Any help with items is greatly appreciated

Switching to an all new district and starting over!

nacole.lamoureux@gmail.com

I’ve taught for many years and am starting in a. district where I live. I’m so excited and can’t wait to meet my 25 students. I am hoping to provide new engaging activities for the little ones and need organization materials to help our class run smoothly. Thank you !!

bianca.zylstra@gmail.com

I teach students of all backgrounds and academic levels. Covid has changed the dynamic of classrooms completely. I’d love to bring back flexible seating options and items in the classroom to allow students a safe, positive learning environment

sarah.hanrahan13@gmail.com

K-5 social emotional learning

I teach kindergarten through fifth graders the appropriate way to manage their emotions. I work in an urban low social economic school

lauren.l.hayes17@gmail.com

https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/KESEHFUHYX2U?ref_=wl_dp_view_your_list

My class is unique with students spanning several years. We have small class sizes and very individualized learning which can lead to a lot of needs.

My classroom was a catch all room with many supplies meant for first grade. I have adjusted over the last two years and have tried to make it as welcoming as possible for all students that walk through my door.

I have 26 amazing first graders each year, I have been teaching for awhile and have a lot of physical materials; however, I do like to keep current with literature and expose them to as many picture books as possible. I am also in need of some updated indoor recess fun.

I am beginning the position of Math Interventionist after 23 years at the same school. Work with math strategies is one of my favorite things! Helping students open their eyes to math and finding joy in it is my goal! Many of these students will need manipulative stuff. I’m starting up fresh and will need to build the program. Math rocks!

3 and 4th grade Special Education

I am on year 5 of teaching the best kids in the world! I love to incorporate games into their learning, read books, and have them do hands on, real life activities daily!

chelseaarthur23@gmail.com

Hello! I’m going into my 6th year of teaching 4th grade and I absolutely love this age. I center my classroom climate on inclusion and family. My students every year grow academically and socially and it’s amazing to see this growth. Currently, my students are in need of some updated indoor recess games. They have had a lot of love the past 5 years and many more since they have been passed down. For me, I am in need of some basic items to get me through the year to help save on some money where I can. Thank you all so incredibly much for your donations!

gabrielle.smithman@gmail.com

Middle School Special Education

I teach middle school special education, and am switching to a new room next year, after spending years making my previous room feel welcoming and relaxing. Many middle school students struggle with self-esteem, and especially those with special education services. I am starting from scratch to create a space that is inviting for them

maggie.goeppinger@gmail.com

I’m a new teacher who has a self contained special education classroom with kids who have high academic and behavioural needs!

myahsteward@gmail.com

As all teachers we just need help with basic supplies plus a few things to make our classroom more comfortable. Thanks in advance for everything!

katelynm.martin7@gmail.com

https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/3O6BF521FXM2E?ref=cm_sw_em_r_un_un_GYM66bJ2afJe3

This will be my fourth year teaching kindergarten at Valerius. Each class at my school is filled with students of diverse backgrounds and life experiences. I embrace individuality and meeting kids “where they are” while instilling a love of learning in each of my students! Thank you for your consideration in providing some of these materials for my classroom.

saradschumaker@gmail.com

I will be teaching 8th grade math and algebra this year at Urbandale Middle School.

I am beginning my 19th year of teaching. This will be my 14th year teaching 5th grade. Teaching is something I have wanted to do since I was a little girl playing school at home, and I can tell you it is one of the most rewarding careers there is. This year I am moving to a new within my district. It is a brand new elementary school, so I am not going to have all the materials and supplies that I had previously because I had to leave items that were purchased with school funds. I will be given a smaller amount of money to buy some items from my classroom, but most of the items I will need I will purchase, or rely on the generosity of others. Thank you so much for doing this wonderful act of kindness!

anna.brousard@dmschools.org

I will be starting a new position this coming school year as a Library/Media specialist. I am looking for basic supplies and a few books for my new students.

mandy.demaray@dmschools.org

I am in my fifth year of teaching at my wonderful, diverse school that provides students with the opportunity to be life longer learners with an open-minded philosophy. My students will have the opportunity to explore centers this year that connect to our academic rigour. My students and I would appreciate any and all support to start this new opportunity. ❤️