Did you know a kid in your class that never seemed to get it right? They often would be "naughty" because they either didn't think they were smart enough, or just didn't know how to ask for what they needed in a positive way?
The poverty rate at my school has risen from 64% to 68% free and reduced lunch in just one year.
Our students are resilient, brave, and smart. Yet, many of their families struggle to provide their children the stability they need to thrive in a 21st century learning environment.
Our students have the capacity to not only achieve, but excel. I am often humbled when I see one of our little ones come in each day with a huge toothy smile and I know that they probably didn't get a full meal the night before, and they didn't get to see their mom because she came home from work after bedtime.
The children at our school have a desire to learn, but we have to work hard at supporting their academic and personal/social needs each day.
My Project
The Lego's I've requested will be part of a positive behavioral program called "Sports Success Group". Students who choose to participate will set personal goals for themselves. For example, students may decide they want to work on taking more risks in the classroom, or they want to become more responsible at remembering their tools for class.
Myself, the classroom teacher, the parents, and the students, work together to create strategies that will help the student navigate their academic careers more successfully.
When students in "SSG" achieve their goals, they then pass on what they've learned through mentoring younger students. That's where the LEGO'S come in. The students will use these items to play and create while guiding conversations around having a positive self-image, being responsible at school, and handling peer conflicts in a peaceful way.
The project is worthy because it will allow a child to feel like they are someone who is creative, smart, and full of potential.
It will provide the needed tool to facilitate important conversations about social skills. Finally, it will be a really fun and exciting way to reach my students with an activity they will look forward to each week!
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As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. This classroom request for funding was created by Ms. Barbour and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.