This project is part of the Black History Month celebration because it supports a Black teacher or a school where the majority of the students are Black.
My Students
Although the look and feel of a Kindergarten classroom has changed over time, Kindergarten students haven't! My kiddos are more curious, inquisitive, and more eager to learn than ever. Our goal is to promote independent 21st Century learning aligned to Common Core Standards.
The students that share my classroom live in low-income communities where the majority are eligible for free or reduced rate lunch.
Despite the challenges that accompany many of my students to school, every single one of them is bright-eyed and eager to be an active member of our classroom community. Over the course of the year, students gradually take on more and more responsibility until they are the ones "in charge" of the classroom. Our school is located in one of the most historically rich sections of the city, and has been written about by famous authors and poets. Our teaching team is made up of eager teachers that work above and beyond the call of duty to provide unique and meaningful learning opportunities for our students.
My Project
My students need 5 iPad Minis with headphones and protective cases to load with interactive literacy and math based learning activities. Over the course of the year, the students engage with many different technologies to enhance Common Core aligned curriculum. Unfortunately, none of these technologies are geared toward giving the individual student time to experience learning activities. By having an iPad center, the students will learn how to use interactive storybooks, phonics and sight word games, math games, and different Google tools (maps, etc.), to enhance their learning experience. This is the first part in a two-part instructional goal for my students, where the second part will be researching and fundraising for a program that tracks student progress and provides them with games and activities based on authentic e-texts to support learning at their individual levels. Most Kindergarteners come to school with general computer and iPad knowledge already! By providing rich learning experiences using technology they know and love in school, they will become the masters of their own learning!
Donations from this project will provide students with invaluable experiences with technology and independence that are becoming increasingly important in the educational field.
With the implementation of PARCC testing around the corner, preparing students to effectively use, manipulate, and be independent with technology will help ensure their success come assessment time. Also, learning with technology is FUN. Kids LOVE using iPads so much, they don't even know they're learning!
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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 Mr. O'Connor and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.