Help me give my students alternative seating to drive learning and partnership in our classroom.
FULLY FUNDED! Ms. Stith's classroom raised $598
This project is fully funded
My Students
I am starting at a new school this year and have been told that my student population is over 70% economically disadvantaged. We are also an extremely rural district that combines students from multiple towns. Their ability to buy supplies for themselves is going to be minimal. I plan on funding most of that myself. However, I want to give them an environment that is inviting and very much "me."
Many of these students live with one parent or no parents (a grandparent or family member has taken on the responsibility of raising them).
I've worked in a district similar to this before, and many of them just need a place to belong. They need a place to feel safe and loved.
My Project
I've been teaching for 12 years and have always had a few random chairs scattered around my room. I've noticed that kids always gravitate to sitting in these chairs or even the floor when given the choice. My students seem to pay attention better and naturally group themselves for work when they are able to move their seating around easier. It's hard to physically pick up a desk and move it, not to mention noisy. When it comes to writing partners, small groups, and even sustained reading on their own, I think alternative seating is a win-win.
Students feel special when they get to sit in alternative seating and often work harder on lessons.
They feel like it's a prize in the classroom: "I got to sit in the chair today, so I have to pay attention." What if everyone had a special chair where they felt comfortable and special for that 45 minutes? The classroom would still utilize conventional desks for part of the day, but when it came time for group activities or even individualized reading, it could serve as a motivator to get students reading on their own.
Provisions would be made for students who need to move around, students who need to sit, and students who need to stand. It would take time and lots of practice from the class, but eventually everyone would have an ideal work space based on their needs.
More than three‑quarters of students from low‑income households
Data about students' economic need comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. Learn more
DHP Emily Futon Couch Bed, Modern Sofa Design Includes Sturdy Chrome Legs and Rich Linen Upholstery, Grey
• Amazon Business
$179.99
1
$179.99
BarleyHome Mobile Stand Up Desk, Adjustable Laptop Desk with Wheels Home Office Workstation, Rolling Table Laptop Cart for Standing or Sitting, Black
• Amazon Business
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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 Ms. Stith and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
