I teach at a public preschool on the south side of Chicago. From a play-based approach, to project-based learning - we focus on the idea of "nothing without joy." My preschoolers truly embody this vision as they learn and grow. They walk into the classroom bright-eyed and excited to play and learn. They are 3-5 year olds from varying social and economic backgrounds, who experience my classroom as their first school - often also understanding it as the only definition of school.
To maximize children’s learning potential, we follow an emergent curriculum that is based out of the interests and leads of children.
Teachers take inspiration from the Reggio Emilia approach to education, and set up the classroom environment to allow children to create, build, and learn in their own unique ways. The children come together in the "blended classroom" model, where some of them have developmental delays and some of them are typically developing. They help each other every day, teaching me and everyone around them the biggest lesson in respect, love, and empathy.
My Project
My students are new to school, and currently exploring materials, relationships, and expectations within the school environment. Their exploration with art is the most freeing, and bold exploration as they discover themselves as little citizens and artists.
I want to make my students' art explorations more joyful and less frustrating by providing them with quality art supplies that speak to them, and help them learn appropriate skills and techniques right from the start - so they can enjoy and discover their true self as artists.
Quality paper like mixed media paper and watercolor paper will allow them to explore the usage of paint and paint thickness appropriately. They will no longer have to deal with the frustrations of cheap paper tearing apart as they attempt to paint. Bright and bold paints of different kinds will help them discover the techniques used with each form of painting, and help them realize their true potential as painters. Craft material like paper mâché roll, will help them explore the sculptural form of art.
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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. Gruschow and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.