Help support Ms. Graham's Classroom

Alternative seating puts students in the driver's seat. Students that are empowered to make their own decisions and choices in their education and educational environment are more engaged and more likely to stay engaged. Research shows that the more engaged a student is the more likely they are to graduate from high school - which leads to success later in life. Some of this seating also helps students with various learning differences be able to focus in a classroom where traditional seating hinders them. A student that cannot sit still, cannot focus, and often is in trouble for being "squirrel-y" will, after time, tune out the teacher and the lesson. I have already piloted the balance discs and yoga balls in my class and surveyed students to find what best works for them. 68% of my students found that the yoga balls helped them focus and were comfortable. And, in each class at least 4 students found the balance discs helped them be more productive. Finally, in the feedback I solicited from students, they indicated they'd like to have the choice of a beanbag chair as well. I have found that listening to student requests, and honoring those requests, ensures a good working relationship with students and reinforces the mutual respect that leads to a positive classroom environment. Special education students are at a high risk in my district for dropping out and not graduating. These students have just as much capacity to learn and succeed and given an opportunity - like alternative seating - will succeed! I want to give all of my students the tools I can to allow them to achieve success.

About my class

Alternative seating puts students in the driver's seat. Students that are empowered to make their own decisions and choices in their education and educational environment are more engaged and more likely to stay engaged. Research shows that the more engaged a student is the more likely they are to graduate from high school - which leads to success later in life. Some of this seating also helps students with various learning differences be able to focus in a classroom where traditional seating hinders them. A student that cannot sit still, cannot focus, and often is in trouble for being "squirrel-y" will, after time, tune out the teacher and the lesson. I have already piloted the balance discs and yoga balls in my class and surveyed students to find what best works for them. 68% of my students found that the yoga balls helped them focus and were comfortable. And, in each class at least 4 students found the balance discs helped them be more productive. Finally, in the feedback I solicited from students, they indicated they'd like to have the choice of a beanbag chair as well. I have found that listening to student requests, and honoring those requests, ensures a good working relationship with students and reinforces the mutual respect that leads to a positive classroom environment. Special education students are at a high risk in my district for dropping out and not graduating. These students have just as much capacity to learn and succeed and given an opportunity - like alternative seating - will succeed! I want to give all of my students the tools I can to allow them to achieve success.

Help teachers & students in your hometown this season!
Use code HOME at checkout and your donation will be matched up to $100.

Ms. Graham's Classroom Edit display name

Support her classroom with a gift that fosters learning.

Support Ms. Graham's classroom with a gift that fosters learning.

About my class

About my class

Help teachers & students in your hometown this season! Use code HOME at checkout and your donation will be matched up to $100.

Ms. Graham's Classroom Edit display name

Support her classroom with a gift that fosters learning.

Support Ms. Graham's classroom with a gift that fosters learning.

About my class

About my class

Help teachers & students in your hometown this season!
Use code HOME at checkout and your donation will be matched up to $100.