My name is Teresa Totaro. I have been teaching elementary school in the Pasadena public school district for almost 30 years. My current school, Altadena Arts Magnet, is in an area devastated by the Eaton wildfires. Many of our students, staff, and even our Principal lost their homes. We have been displaced and have to rebuild from nothing in a new location. All we will have are desks, chairs, four walls, and each other.

My teaching is centered in mindfulness and the arts. Every morning, my students and I get grounded and present through yoga and sound meditation. This sets the foundation for our day, a foundation we return to throughout the day.

Our curriculum is fully integrated with the arts—visual and performing. I believe in teaching through the arts for so many reasons! We create an inviting, tranquil, and engaging environment in which to work and collaborate. All learning styles can be challenged and acknowledged through the arts. The arts can reinforce any skill being introduced across the subjects: math, language arts, social-emotional learning, social studies, and science!

We are being told to consider everything in our school a loss. Our Principal, Dr. Dana Hill, suggested we set up GoFundMe accounts. I am asking for your help to replenish supplies so that my third graders can still have the best school year ever. Specifically, I will be replacing some much-loved books to read aloud, books for the student library and for reading groups, art supplies, a speaker, pillows and bean bags for special spots, our singing bowls, and much more. I am grateful beyond words for any contribution.

In gratitude and service,

Ms. Totaro