Need a break to stimulate? After several hours of intense work, it is now time for a well deserved outdoor break. Today's choices: running in red dirt, rolling in a tiny patch of grass,
throwing a ball into a home-made hoop, or waiting in line for your one chance at tether ball. Sounds rewarding?
We are a Hawaiian culture-focused public charter school in Hawaii.
The school is in a low income area and is a Title I school. Although our student population is very diverse, the students all have one thing in common - they would love a "real" playground. From letters to the principal to pleading with the teacher, these students would like nothing more than a playground (and maybe some grass too). Knowing these students and how hard some of their home lives are, it is a common goal of our staff to help these students succeed in and out of the classroom. Although their resiliency is unbelievable, my belief is that having a more stimulating experience out of the classroom will result in even greater academic achievement in the classroom.
My Project
This playground would not only impact my students, but would also be a gift to the entire elementary school. As a charter school, our biggest need is always facilities and we are finally into our first permanent facilities. The school's play structure is adjacent to our classroom and is the same play structure that they were using four years ago when I started at the school. The play structure was purchased at Costco and was intended for home use. As these students face many challenges in the classroom and at home, I would love to give them an opportunity to play freely, be kids, interact with their peers, and most importantly, learn the importance of healthy living and exercise. If only for the time within the school day, I want to see the students being carefree and not waiting in line for the lone tether ball game. I would like to see them exerting their energy in a positive manner that will ultimately help their performance in the classroom.
My students are a wonderful group who always put forth their best effort and strive for their personal best.
They know my expectations and are excited to come to school everyday. With your help, I would love to be able to provide this outlet to the students and cannot wait to see what they can do in the classroom when they are more engaged and stimulated out of the classroom! Mahalo for your support!
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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 Mrs. Dabin and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.