by Jen Donovan

Skype has partnered with DonorsChoose.org to provide teachers with the materials they need to enhance the learning experience beyond the classroom. DonorsChoose.org is an online charity community that provides donations to public schools in need across the US. Teachers are able to post their project or request and receive individual donations through the website. These donations provide resources like books, art supplies, and technology to schools in need. Through the partnership, Skype plans to donate $250,000 to teachers requesting the necessary materials to provide Skype video calling in their classrooms. 

The goal of the Skype Initiative is to break down the barriers of communication by connecting one million classrooms across the globe. Skype video calling gives students the opportunity to collaborate on projects and share ideas with other students from other cultures around the world. Currently 1,816 projects, 24,356 teachers, and 608 resources are involved in the initiative, and Skype has already funded several of the projects posted on DonorsChoose.org. 

Teachers can take advantage of this program by registering for Skype in the classroom today. For every new registered teacher, Skype will donate a $25 USD DonorsChoose.org Gift Card which can be applied to any classroom project posted on DonorsChoose.org, including any project they’ve created themselves.

To learn more and register with Skype in the classroom visit education.skype.com

To create an account and post your classroom project or request visit www.donorschoose.org.

Jen Donovan is the strategic communications intern at the International Reading Association.