Pledge Cents

Everyone is always talking about Donor's Choose and I'm here to tell you about PledgeCents!

First of all, don't get me wrong.... I love Donor's Choose.  Over the past 5 years, I've had over 30 projects funded with Donor's Choose.  I'm extremely grateful for the wonderful site and all the donors who have helped my classroom over the years.   But, this post is not about Donor's Choose.

Let me start with a little story, because we all love stories.  Two years ago I was teaching 4th grade for the first time and was super bummed when I found out my school did not typically go on field trips to St. Augustine.  This is a very common field trip for many 4th graders in Florida, as the social studies curriculum in 4th is tied to Florida history.  The one field trip I remember the most in my K-12 education is St. Augustine.  I have so many vivid memories of this trip.  It is the one trip my parents chaperoned each year for my brothers and I - it's that much fun.   When I was asked to teach 4th grade again as team leader, I KNEW I was going to make this trip happen for my students.  I work at a very high poverty school in Orlando, so not only did I want to plan the trip, but I wanted to make sure all kids could afford it.

Planning a field trip on Donor's Choose was complicated, and I didn't want to deal with it (just being honest)  PledgeCents was (and still is) fairly new, but I decided to give them a try.  I was immediately impressed because one of the co-owners CALLED ME to verify my project and answer any questions I had.  How often does an owner of a business CALL YOU to offer support?  Never.

One reason I absolutely loved PledgeCents platform is you were able to obtain all funds raised, even if you did not raise the total amount you set out to.  This meant that I would be able to use any money raised for my field trip, even if I didn't raise the entire amount.  When you submit a project, they specifically ask you what you will do in this situation.

With PledgeCents, I was able to raise $235 for our field trip.  We didn't reach our goal, but I was able to completely pay for 5 students to attend and have some money to cut the cost of a few other students admission fees.   We had the BEST time on the trip.

If you have a classroom project idea, I highly suggest you post it on Pledge Cents.  But wait!  Don't sign up yet..... They have a pretty sweet referral program going on.  If you let me refer you, they will give you $10 toward your first project.  I'll also get $5 toward my current project for the referral.  Win win!  You get $10 toward your classroom and get to help support mine.  

If you are want the referral, e-mail me at teachruncreate@gmail.com with the subject line of PLEDGE CENTS.  I'll enter your e-mail with 24 hours and PledgeCents will send you the referral right away.   You can also leave your e-mail in the comments... but some people are weird about that.  Just make sure I get your e-mail, okkkkayyy? 

[Hey Pledge Cents!  Are you reading this?  If so, I think it would be WAY easier if you gave me a referral link.... I'm just sayin']

What classroom project ideas do you have?  My current project is for flexible seating!  I'm trying to get some standing desks for my school.  Leave a comment below with your ideas;  I'd love to hear them! 

Leave a Comment Featured, Teaching

Share:

Top Podcasts for Teacherpreneurs

About 7 months ago, I discovered podcasts.  Actually, that's not correct.  I first heard of podcasts years ago, but initially thought the whole concept was dumb.  Why would I want to listen to people talk?  I thought I would hate them and find them incredibly boring.  This misconception caused me to not even give them a try.

I can't remember what convinced me to try out a podcast.  Honestly, I wish I could remember.  It would probably make a good story.

Since the school year started, I have listened to podcasts every day on the way to work.  I have an hour commute, so this gives me a lot of listening time.  Typically, I do not listen to podcasts on the way home.  I've tried, but have realized my mind is too flustered with thoughts.

I'm always looking for new podcasts, and enjoy trying new ones out.  These are my top five favorites podcast for teacherpreneurs.  These podcasts are motivating, inspiring, and full of valuable information.  If you are looking to start an online business or simply monetize some of your teaching expertise, I highly suggest you check these out:

1.   Smart Passive Income : Pat Flynn

This is my absolute favorite podcast!  It's one of the first I started to listen to and the one I come to whenever I need inspiration or new ideas.  Pat is an all around family guy and I love how real he is on his show.  The majority of his episodes are interviews with other successful entrepreneurs.  The best part is majority of the people he interviews are regular people, like us.  Regular people who wanted more out of their life and were frustrated with the 9-5 workweek.  His shows have incredible information and tips about creating and succeeding in online business, and he does a great job of making it easy for beginners - like me - to understand the process.

2. Build Your Tribe : Chalene Johnson

If you're not familiar with Chalene Johnson, I'm not sure we can be friends.  Chalene is killing it all over social media and the online business world.  In 2013 I spent a few months as a Beachbody coach.  This is when I learned about Chalene.  It was a almost another year before I understood how much more she did outside of fitness.  Her podcasts make it feel like you are listening to a friend.  She focuses on "building your tribe."  You'll learn how to attract the right people, how to build an e-mail list, and create a community of people that are wanting YOUR content.  I just love Chalene.  

3. Flipped Lifestyle : Shane and Jocelyn Sams

I go back and forth with loving this podcast.  One of the reasons I really enjoy this show is because Shane and Jocelyn are so relatable.  Jocelyn used to be an elementary librarian and Shane is a former teacher and football coach.  They both took their past careers and made it into profitable online businesses.  I find myself not always agreeing with some of the suggestions they make, but that could just be my personal preference.  They are also awesome for beginners, as I feel their episodes don't often go into the complicated tactics involved with online business.

4. The Chalene Show : Chalene Johnson

Yes!  Chalene has TWO podcasts and they both made my top 5.  This podcast is less business related and more personal growth.  She talks about becoming more confident, getting healthy, and finding happiness.  Most of these episodes are shorter, usually less than 30 minutes, and they are always practical.  I listen to these when I need a mental break from business.

5. Social Media Marketing Podcast : Michael Stelzner

This podcast is all about social media.  I adore social media for so many reasons.  I love how it connects us to people all over the world and gives us a way to share our story.  This podcast discusses a variety of different social media platforms and how you can use them to build your business.  In every episode you will learn multiple tips and strategies you can begin to implement right away.  

There you have it!  My top 5 favorite podcasts for teachers turned entreprenuer.  While these are my favorite, there are many others I listen to on occasion.

Runner-Ups:
Online Marketing Made Easy with Amy Porterfield
Screw the Nine to Five with Jill and Josh Stanton

Ask Pat with Pat Flynn

What are some of your favorite podcasts?

Leave a Comment Business, Featured

Share:

Donor's Choose Tips

I will admit it:  I'm obsessed with Donor's Choose!

I published my first project on September 5, 2011 during my first year of teaching.  It was funded on February 2, 2012 by complete strangers.  I still remember getting the e-mail in the middle of the day at school, the e-mail that said my project was funded.  With a smile on my face, I told my students about the project.  They didn't understand.  They did not understand how and why strangers would donate money to help them!  Overjoyed and speechless, my students learned a valuable lesson of gratitude this day.  Since that project, I have had 33 projects funded.  

My projects have been for a variety of items, including books, a camera, literacy centers, science experiment kits, school supplies, flexible seating options, website subscriptions (Flocabulary - if you don't have it, you need it) and more.  I'm forever grateful for Donor's Choose for helping me find donors to support my creative and innovating project ideas for my classroom.

Over the years, many people have asked for tips on how to get their projects funded quickly.  I've decided to share some of my top tips for you.  Before I start, please remember one thing:  don't give up.  I've had 33 projects funded, but I've also had a handful of projects go un-funded. It happens.  Don't let an unfunded project stop you from tying again.

Tip #1: Make your projects less than $500
I'm not saying your project won't get funded if it's over $500; many large projects get funded.  In my experience, I have simply found that smaller projects get funded more quickly.  You need to remember Donor's Choose will add on some fees to the total cost of your items.  You can expect about $50-$60 extra added to your projects.  If you have a large project, try splitting into smaller projects.  For example, instead of posting a project for multiple iPads - post a project for 1 iPad.  Instead of posting a project for new books, book bins, and reading strategy games for your new literacy center - try turning this huge project into 3 smaller projects.  Donor's will be less intimated by a smaller project.  The smaller your project is, the faster it will get funded.

Tip #2: Be REAL.
When you post your project, be honest about your school's needs.  Explain your students and their struggles.  Tell your story.  Don't hesitate on getting a picture posted.  If you have permission to post students pictures on internet, I would recommend snapping a new picture of your students.  {Donor's Choose also provides a form for you to send home to parents to get permission for their child to be on the site.} Donor's want to know exactly why YOU deserve and need their money.  They want to know where their money is going and impact it is going to make.  This is not a time to be modest.

Tip #3: PROMOTE your project
Listen people.  Your project is not just going to fund itself.   I teach in a high poverty area, so sending letters home about my project never seemed practical.  Many teachers have found success with this though.   I read a story once where a teacher sent home letters about the Donor's Choose project, and one mom got her company to 100% fund the entire project.  Post on your various social media accounts and tell people what you are doing.  Just like tip #2, be honest and real people about your project.  Share with your friends.  Post on Facebook.  Tweet it out.  You would be surprised how many of your friends will donate.  The small amounts will add up.

Tip #4: Search Partner Funding Opportunities
There are many opportunities for you to get 50% of your project funded through various companies.  I like to check out the Partner Funding site often to see if there are any new opportunities in Florida.  You can check them out HERE.  These opportunities usually have very specific criteria for types of items you can offer.  They will also give you some ideas of projects you could post if you're looking for some new ideas.

Tip #5: Don't give up.
Sometimes projects take time to get funded, sometimes they get funded overnight. Do not get frustrated.  Last week Donor's Choose surprised the entire community by hosting an event called #BestSchoolDay. They partnered with celebrities and large companies to fund projects all over the county.  Celebrities adopted various cities, states, or districts and 100% funded their projects.  This was completely unexpected.  You never know when a donor will come across your project and want to help out, so it's important you have your projects posted with good descriptions for them to read when they find you.

Tip #6:  Be genuine when you say thank-you
After a project is funded, Donor's Choose will require you to do some sort of thank-you package.  Before your materials are ordered, you will be required to verify your project online and write a short thank-you message to your donors.  Do not take this lightly.  Real people, you likely do not know, donated their hard earned money to YOU.   It is essential you take the time to thank them properly.  After your materials arrive, you will have a deadline for posting pictures and writing an impact letter online.  Donors who give over a certain amount have the option of requesting hand-written letters. Once again, take this seriously.  I have a couple donors who I have never met that continuously donate to my projects.  Once someone is donated to you, they will frequently get e-mails about your new projects.   You need (and should want) to make a good impression to prompt them to continue supporting you.

I hope you found this post useful and have some new ideas for getting your project funded quickly.  Please comment below if you use Donor's Choose and what types of items you have received funding for.  I love hearing other project ideas! 

Leave a Comment Teaching

Share:

Color Run

I tried taking my son to a Color Run last year, and he was not having it.  I showed him a video and his response was along the lines of "YUCK. I don't want to get messy."  I have no explanation for that behavior.

This year I signed him up and kept my fingers crossed he would be into it.  I showed him some YouTube videos a few days prior, and HE LOVED IT.  He couldn't wait to get all messy.

He woke up bright and early on the day of the run and Tanner couldn't wait to get his color gear on!

My youngest brother, Kevin, signed up with this.  This made the race that much cooler;  Tanner loves his Uncle Kevin!

I've done The Color Run in the past, so I already knew the starting line would be crowded.  We tried to get there a little early so we could be in one of the first waves.  We met some nice people in line who offered to get a picture of all of us.  I always love when people offer to take pictures and I don't have to ask.  Haha.

Tanner can pretty consistently run 1/4 - 1/2 mile without stopping, depending on his mood.  It doesn't matter how much he has actually run though, he is all about those water stops!

He always has to take his leisurely time when drinking too;  he can't miss a drop!  At the next color, I decided to run ahead to try to get video and pictures of them running through.  It didn't work out so well.  It was very cloudy and I didn't even see them come through! After they found ME, I made them pose for a photo.

I tried a few more times, and was able to get a somewhat decent video of them running through the last color stop, which also had bubbles.  I'll try to upload it when I finish editing it.

It wasn't long before we were all sprinting through that finish line.  At the finish line, they had medals and packets of color for everyone.  We quickly grabbed our items and hurried to a clear spot in the massive swarms of people.   I took a pretty incredible video of Tanner and Uncle Kevin attacking each other with the color packets.  These are some of the still shots from the video:

Then Tanner got a great idea to attack ME.  I had absolutely no idea he was going to do this, but look at that cute face.... can't get upset about that!

All in all, it was a great day!  Tanner has already been asking when we can do another one.  He doesn't understand why we can't do one every weekend.  Life is tough, kid.  

I hope everyone has a good weekend!  Toodles!

1 comment Mom life, Running

Share:

My first post :)

Hello world!  I'm excited to be back to blogging and I already know this particular blog will last.  I've had various blogs over the years, but I have never been able to find something that stuck.  Everyone tells you to "pick a niche" and don't get me wrong... I completely understand the logic behind it.  The thing is, blogging is more than just me trying to build my business.  I want a place to share my daily ramblings and small moments of my life. My son is growing fast and blogging is a way I can document our crazy life.  Let me start by telling you a little bit about myself:

My name is Katie and I'm a single mom living in Orlando.  My son, Tanner, is my entire world.  All moms say that, but Tanner really has given me a whole new life.  Everything happens for a reason, and I truly believe my son was placed in my life to make me a better person.

Now I don't want to get into all the itty bitty details of my life, because - let's be honest... no one came here to read my autobiography.   I will tell you I have been a single mom since my son was a couple days old.  It is the only type of #momlife I know.  I started my masters when I was pregnant with my miracle baby and finished when he was 2.  For the past 5 years, I have worked in a very high poverty school in Orlando.  The kids I work with every day are absolutely incredible and I'm blessed to be a small part of their lives.

When I started teaching 5 years ago, I came across this innovative site called TeachersPayTeachers.  It was full of creative teaching resources and I soon realized teachers were getting paid to share their ideas.  Being a new teacher, I was full of ideas!  When I told my dad about this site AND told him I was going to make some money by selling some of my own resources, he laughed at me.  I'm not kidding.  He didn't laugh to be mean, he just didn't think it would be a good use of my time.  I showed him.  In 7 months I made $20k and saved up for a down payment on a house.  I closed on my house a little after a year of selling resources on TeachersPayTeachers (TpT).

Over the years, I stopped investing my time in creating resources for TpT and the amount of passive income I was making declined.  During this time I had begun to spend my "free hours" running.  Running quickly became a passion for me.  It was a form of exercise I could do with my son by pushing the stroller - which he didn't always love.  I've been running regularly for about 2 years now. I have completed tons of 5ks, about 14 half marathons, 4 marathons, and 1 50k ultra.  I think running will always be a part of my life.  My son has started to find a love for running and I've realized it is much more fun to watch him run, than to actually run myself.

Then again, I would choose watching him enjoy life over anything, any day.   Welcome to my world.

Leave a Comment

Share: