My classroom is full of life and movement that is meaningful. Students are continually moving throughout the classroom daily. Learning takes place not only at my teacher table but also independent stations using technology or reading a book. Life is ever changing and so should a classroom.
My fourth graders enjoy coming to school daily because it is an escape from their home situations.
Many are from homes that are below the poverty level and low educational backgrounds. Though many may come for the free lunch, I want them to stay because of the learning experience. That is why I want to make our small Title I school just as enticing and engaging as larger more affluent schools that are located nearby. All students deserve a place to come and experience all that we have to offer and give.
My Project
The stability ball chairs will provide several things. First, it will enhance the classroom atmosphere. Plain and simple kids, like us, are drawn to the new and different. Just the anticipation of your turn to sit on the stability ball chair is a reason to finish your math sheet. Next, it addresses a real situation in classrooms today. ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder) kids should not be punished because they can not sit still, so give them an outlet for the nervous foot movements and the chair fidgets. If they are moving in a controlled manner they are less likely to distract everyone else by their restless movements and more likely to focus on their own work task. Finally, ball chairs are kid friendly. If you were a kid wouldn't you like to sit on a ball?
Every year you will have a few kids with learning disabilities and or special needs, but this year the number of special needs kids is especially high.
One third of the class is identified as having special needs. I feel like this is the year I must find as many ways possible to keep the students engaged, focused and motivated to learn. The stability ball chairs are just one way that students can focus and enjoy learning.
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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. Gaddy and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
