This project is part of the Black History Month celebration because it supports a Black teacher or a school where the majority of the students are Black.
My Students
Can you imagine not being able to tell someone that you're hungry or that you need to use the bathroom? What if you wanted to read your favorite book or just need a big hug? That's what its like for my non-verbal students with Autism. They may not have the words...but we can give them pictures.
I teach students with Autism Spectrum Disorder in grades 1-5.
These awesome kids have a range of abilities and needs with symptoms that are mild to severe. My staff helps our students develop communication, behavior, self-care, and social skills to help them reach their greatest level of independence possible. Our school district, like so many others, are experiencing deep budget cuts across the board. Every year, our supply spending allowance gets smaller, yet we are expected to do more. We are currently using "random" clip art to create visual schedules. I believe it would be much more effective to use photos of actual objects and activity choices since some of my students' cognitive skills require an accurate visual representation of what they are trying to communicate.
My Project
Most of my students have limited or no verbal skills. You can imagine the frustration that they experience because of that. Often, their frustration turns to tears and tantrums that severely affect their ability to participate in lessons and activities. I can use a digital camera and printer to create Picture Menus, Visual Schedules, and Communication Books to help reduce their stress and improve their success in the classroom and in life.
Donors, with your help, my students can break through their communication barriers and begin to enjoy the pride and independence that appropriately expressing their wants and needs will bring!
I became a teacher because I wanted to have a positive impact in the lives of children with special needs. I believe that I make a difference. You can help me to continue to improve the quality of life for my students by donating to my cause. Thank You!
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. Johnson and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.