Hi, I’d like to introduce a local cause that is close to my heart and can help all of our futures. You may have heard about the budget cuts facing our public schools. Emily happens to be the principal in one of these schools. I have helped set up a program for folks to sponsor the kids in these classrooms in need. As a Mather Classroom Champion I am dedicated to help raise funds for Tamika Fluker's 4th grade class. Let me introduce you to the Mather and Ms. Fluker and I hope you’ll see why I have decided to get involved.

America’s first elementary school.

The Mather Elementary School, is the first public elementary school in North America, located in the historic Meeting House Hill neighborhood of Dorchester. The recession has taken a serious toll on the Mather and all Boston Public Schools. Over the past two years, budget cuts have left classrooms in need of materials and supplies – let alone Smartboards and other educational technology.

Meet Tamika Fluker, 4th grade teacher.

Tamika Fluker is in her 3rd year as a 4th grade teacher at the Mather, where she also did her training as a teaching resident.  According to Ms. Fluker,  “I enjoy the sense of community among the Mather School. Everyone is welcoming and teachers are truly invested in teaching their students and ensuring that that all students have everything they need for success”.  She is constantly impressed by the level of student participation and the type of “wonderful questions” her students ask. Her dream classroom would include 6 student computers, new book shelves, an abundance of rich library books and a listening center.  Ms. Fluker also hopes that with the Mather Champion funding, she could bring her students on cultural fieldtrips, such as the MFA and the JFK Museum. 

Here’s how you can help:

• Make a tax-deductible donation today.
• Encourage your friends and family to make a donation.
• Sign up to volunteer by contacting Principal Cox at ecox@boston.k12.ma.us.

I hope you can help me raise the funds to bridge the gap in funding in Ms. Fluker's class. Any contributions will help. See the list below for how your contribution can help. Thank you. Teresa Herd