bioephemera

The DonorsChoose challenge is over - and given the terrible economy and the distraction of the election, I feel very fortunate to have gotten over $2,000 in donations toward some incredibly creative science/art projects. Here's some of the feedback I've gotten from the teachers:

I am so excited about this project and am very grateful for your generosity. I really appreciate all that you have done to make learning interactive and a unique experience for my students. The chance to express themselves through art will hopefully open their eyes to new possibilities as well as enable them to begin understanding of others. This chance you have given them is truly priceless. Thank You. - "Artsy Smartsy"

I am grateful for your assistance and support. My students will also be grateful. Even high school students get excited when someone provides resources for them! I look forward to sharing these materials with them and informing them of your wonderful help. - "Memory for modeling"

It will give them a hands-on way to learn about art and science as well as seeing the connections between the two subjects. - "Learning About Insects with a Renaissance Artist"

This is very advanced work for 1st, 2nd and 3rd graders, the kind of work that requires deeper thinking and greater concentration than the typical lesson at this level. It's amazing to see what they can accomplish when they are motivated. Most of my students' families are too poor to buy these materials for home use but it is just the kind of thing students should be doing at home instead of playing video games. Your generous gift will replace hundreds of hours of TV watching and video game playing with a hands-on activity that will build neural connections and hopefully keep these kids interested in school. - "Don't Be Square"

These thanks are really for you, readers. And a big thank-you also goes to Seed for their matching funds, which made up about a third of our total.

Now it's my turn - I owe an original painting to our most generous donor. It was a close race, but my Scibling Physioprof ended up donating the most, and winning an original BioE painting of a cephalopod. Congrats and thank you! Your painting is in progress.

I promised to award three prints of the painting to three other donors, but I've decided to go ahead and award five - I'll send you an email if you are one of the recipients. Given how long it takes me to paint a full-size piece, and then make prints, it'll be a little while before you see your print. But never fear: it's coming! In fact, I worked on the painting today. Promise!