We are the "Crystal Arrows". Everyday we hit the ground running and we never say the word "can't". We believe in ourselves and our abilities... nothing holds us back.
I am the luckiest teacher in the world with 25 students who live to learn.
We run our classroom like a business. Students have their own "office space" and get paid for coming to school and doing work. They take their jobs seriously and commit to setting and reaching goals together. We challenge each other and support each other. I like to challenge kids on all levels...creating a Math Olympics challenge and Travel projects to make learning more meaningful. Computers are a giant part of our program and a tremendous asset to their learning and success. I expect my students to challenge themselves as well, and while they love the computers, get frustrated that they have to troubleshoot. My class is working on a HUGE project where they are planning a week's vacation to Yosemite, budgeting time, money and itinerary. It is hard to rely on computer lab time (one hour per week) to do all the research and create Power Points during that time. Having laptops would make a tremendous difference!
My Project
When a child finishes his or her work in any subject matter they have "free" time. The problem is, I don't believe in "free" time as I want my kids to be engaged in learning all day. At that time there are a variety of challenges the child could take advantage of, one of which is the computers. We have a page specifically devoted to logic puzzles, math challenges, science activities which the kids work VERY hard to get to. The hard part is, the computers are older and don't run quickly enough to keep up with the technology. We also do research reports and expository writing in fifth grade and being able to research quickly means more students can pop in and out. Another aspect of the laptops that I would use frequently is the ability to take them outside! We live in the most beautiful surroundings and I know they would enjoy being a part of nature while they work.
Having these computers would be amazing and priceless gift to my students.
Their world is technologically driven and I feel it is my job to create the opportunity to access better technology. The "Crystal Arrows and their CEO thank you for taking the time to read this!
DonorsChoose is the most trusted classroom funding site for teachers.
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. Ward and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.