My students are in 2nd grade, so they come to school with just enough knowledge from Kindergarten and 1st grade to feel confident, excited, and more than willing to boss me (and each other) around! My students can get distracted very easily, but they truly love to learn. I am constantly surprised at the facts they retain about the Earth, about animals, space, and almost anything else you can think of.
One of the greatest gifts I experience daily is getting to laugh with my students.
They tell jokes, they say funny things without meaning to be funny, they tease me endlessly about my forgetfulness or my marital status, and they have no filter. They dance at their desks, sporting moves that I can't help but giggle at. And on top of all that, they give hugs like nobody's business. Hugs when they're happy, hugs when they are sad, hugs when they are sorry, hugs for no reason at all.
My Project
When we think of the classroom, we think of textbooks, pencils, technology, anchor charts, posters, and hands-on materials. These are all important parts of the classroom. But research has shown that first and foremost, brain-based learning starts with the classroom environment.
One of the 4 domains that teachers are rated on and that students need to thrive is a "quality learning environment." This includes the overall community and vibe of your classroom, but also the physical aspects.
Studies have shown that students learn better in natural or full spectrum lighting, as opposed to harsh florescent lighting. Light covers and alternate lighting such as standing lamps are a creative way to combat the harsh effects of lighting in the classroom.
In addition, color is an important factor in learning environments. Studies have shown that blue and green are calming, whereas red and orange spike blood pressure and pulse. Because I have many students who are hyperactive and have trouble focusing, I want to create a more calming setting using blue and green tones, including artificial and live plants. The plants will also serve a second purpose- cleaning the air. Since our classroom does not have windows or natural lighting, I want to bring the outdoors in to create a healthier learning environment.
Working in an open classroom school (we have cubicle walls) can be challenging when it comes to creating a cozy learning environment. However, I am determined to provide my students with the best possible place to learn and grow, regardless of the challenges.
Simple Designs Home LF1014-GRY Floor Lamp Organizer Storage Shelf with Linen Shade, Gray
• Amazon Business
$44.99
1
$44.99
Post-it Super Sticky Easel Pad, 25 x 30 Inches, 30 Sheets/Pad, 2 Pads, Large White Premium Self Stick Flip Chart Paper, Super Sticking Power (559)
• Amazon Business
$30.32
1
$30.32
Costa Farms Premium Live Indoor Ficus Lyrata, Fiddle-Leaf Fig Floor Plant in 8.75-Inch Grower Pot, Shipped Fresh From Our Farm, Excellent Gift
• Amazon Business
$29.97
1
$29.97
Costa Farms Premium Live Indoor Snake Plant, Sansevieria laurentii, Floor Plant, Grower Pot, Shipped Fresh From Our Farm, Excellent Gift
• Amazon Business
$29.07
1
$29.07
Educational Insights Fluorescent Light Filters (Whisper White), Set of 4
• Amazon Business
$25.21
1
$25.21
Costa Farms Golden Pothos Ivy Live Indoor Tabletop Plant in 6-Inch Grower Pot
• Amazon Business
$17.57
1
$17.57
Materials cost
$177.13
Vendor shipping charges
FREE
Sales tax
$10.63
3rd party payment processing fee
$2.66
Fulfillment labor & materials
$30.00
Total project cost
$220.42
Suggested donation to help DonorsChoose reach more classrooms
$38.90
Total project goal
$259.32
How we calculate what's needed
Total project goal
$259.32
4 Donors
-$257.55
Donations toward project cost
-$220.42
Donations to help DonorsChoose reach more classrooms
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. Solomon and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
