The Sustainability Classroom: Learning from Living Systems
My students need science and environmental books, supplies to build four aquaponic systems, cooking supplies, composting equipment, and containers for the indoor gardens.
My students have a natural curiosity and wonder for living things. We see them going on “nature hikes” and building fairy gardens. All of these activities take place on our urban blacktop playground. Imagine what students could do if they had a place to unleash their creativity and joy for nature.
At our school, I have the unique opportunity to "Teach for the Planet" everyday to every student in our school.
Even though my students are young they have an innate sense of Earth stewardship. We see students accepting responsibility as consumers, educating and inspiring one another. Many are passionate about learning how to take care of the Earth. They have thoughtful discussions about what we can do as a school to help people and nature. The richness of diversity we desire in an ecosystem we also seek in our own community. My students are from very diverse socioeconomic backgrounds. Our school is located in one of the most racially and culturally diverse communities in New York City. Our student make-up is 44% African American, 37% European, 12% Asian American, 6% Latin American, and 1% Indian American. We educate children with special needs and provide an Integrated Co-Teaching environment. I see children bond by connecting with the world around them and solving problems together.
My Project
Imagine walking into a classroom, looking up and seeing living walls, green plants cleaning the air and restoring oxygen, and food being harvested. Beyond four walls and desks is a garden waiting to flourish with living things. Living systems can provide experiential, interdisciplinary education, therapeutic opportunities and microenterprises. I will work with a team of architects and ecological designers to build an aquaponics system with my students. The aquaponics system is an interactive, mobile model of growing food using hydroponics and aquaculture. vermiculture bins will compost our waste from school lunch and be stored in bags that can also be sold for profit. The Sustainable Classroom will hold an Ecological Library for students and families. Topics range from field guides, gardening, farming, beekeeping, and more. Larger scale equipment will be used for cooking and science experiments. My classroom will be a place for design projects that envision a sustainable future.
I have an incredible opportunity to create a classroom dedicated to Sustainability.
We integrate Science and Sustainability into our entire curriculum through projects, planning and studio time. The classroom will serve as an incubator for students’ individual and group projects that envision a healthy and sustainable future. It will serve as a model and resource center for staff, students and families. Students will develop a deep love of learning that will last a lifetime.
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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. Beneke and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.