Would you build a house without a foundation? Or a garden without soil? What about go to school without pencils, paper, a ruler or other basic supplies that enable you to complete your work? Of course not! My students agree - without the necessary tools, learning cannot take place.
My students are an energetic group of boys who are excited to learn.
They are ages 5-7 and are all diagnosed with Autism. They are a dynamic group who enjoy "active" learning by getting their hands dirty (figuratively and literally in our garden!) and exploring their environment. We work hard on their ability to perform academic and social skills independently. My main goal in class is to teach them what they need to enjoy life, whether this be addition and subtraction for buying what they need or reading signs to know where they are going.
Most families are not able to send in all of the supplies needed for the school year so I am seeking help to provide these supplies. Last year I would refer to each specific item that was to be used: "Take out your pencil. Find your ruler." Soon after, however, one student came up with a name that stuck: their toolbox.
My Project
These supplies will be used on a daily basis during all periods. My students keep their toolboxes in theirs desks so they have constant access and learn responsibility for their belongings. I believe that each student should have an investment in their education and providing them with their own personal tools will not only give them ownership over the physical materials of learning, but will demonstrate caring that builds confidence and self-esteem.
I plan on using the Scholastic magazines as part of group work throughout the week. Having both Kindergarten and 1st grade content will allow me to better differentiate for each student's needs.
My students are successful and engaged with arts projects and so many of these supplies will be used for arts integration. There are also supplies like chart paper and dry erase markers which will be used during whole group lessons. The puzzles are a great way to reinforce skills and promote independence, success and self-confidence.
All donations to this project will greatly benefit my students.
They will have the supplies needed to not only learn, but have fun while doing so. If students are not having fun or interested in what I am teaching, they will not learn the material. Having their own tools gives them power to really engage in their education and get the most from it.
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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. Skalski and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
