I’ve been teaching first grade at an amazing K-3 school in southern Maine for the last three years. This September, I made the move to kindergarten! The school that I work at has a diverse community of learners with a wide range of financial security. Located in close proximity to a naval base, we have a large population of military families, so roster changes throughout the school year are frequent. Our school works hard to be a place where the needs of all students are met, and we are invested in helping children to be caring and well-rounded learners.
I love the curiosity and genuine enthusiasm for learning that our youngest students display.
Each learner has strengths and challenges and has a unique personality and learning style. I work hard to get to know each of my students and to find different ways to help them do their best learning in my classroom each day.
My Project
My kindergartners spend each day engaged in learning. They love to explore the materials in our classroom, and work with peers. As they play, they are building relationships, and learning to work with others. I am always looking for new opportunities to make our learning playful and hands-on, and encourage conversation and collaboration. The farm, wildlife, and woodland animal collections in this project will allow for many important learning opportunities in kindergarten.
Through play, students will be able to put their skills to the test; they will be able to practice counting and sorting as well as engage in dramatic play that enriches their language and builds vocabulary, as well as strengthens our classroom community.
Students will be able to work on grouping animals by size and color, as well as think of other ways to sort and classify; perhaps they'll group baby animals versus adults or animals with particular patterns, or animals with feathers! Students will be able to communicate with each other about animals they like and share information. These animals may even inspire students as they work on informational writing! Having a variety of realistic animals will provide my students with so many opportunities to play and learn together!
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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. Verissimo and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.