Third Graders Making a Difference (TGMD), a service-based initiative founded by D-E Lower School (LS) Third Grade Teacher Michelle Sussmann in 2014 and co-led by Third Grade Teacher Rachel Brainin, culminated with a book sale this week, consisting of gently used children’s picture and chapter books donated by members of the D-E community. Proceeds from the book sale will benefit a charity selected by third graders.

Students participated in sorting and preparing the donated books for sale. The Lower School was then invited to attend the fundraiser, where each book could be purchased for $5 or less. “It was fun planning for it,” exclaimed Zein A. ’34 of the event. Classmate Shirl O. ’34 noted that any leftover books would be donated to needy families.

“They have learned so much about the power of giving… how good it makes us feel!”

“This TGMD project truly puts all aspects of making a difference into the third graders’ hands,” said Ms. Sussmann. “They have learned so much about the power of giving… how important it is and how good it makes us feel!”

When asked why it’s important to “make a difference,” Caleb C. ’34 remarked, “You’re helping people less fortunate than you.”

Ms. Sussmann explained that the project is tied to skills learned in students’ persuasive writing unit, for which they are asked to write a persuasive speech to convince their peers that a particular charity should receive the profits from the book sale. Students then vote on the cause that will receive the proceeds.

Students can choose one of the nonprofit organizations they learned about in class or choose another organization that is important to them, said Ms. Sussmann.

“You’re helping people less fortunate than you.”

Alanna M. ’34 said she discovered through TGMD that anyone of any age can make a difference in the world, sharing: “Why wait until you’re older when you can do something now.” Classmate Melinda J. ’34 added, “It may be a small difference, but it still helps anyway.”

We’re so proud of our third graders for paying it forward!