My students need couch, coffee table, and 2 end tables, four wobble chairs, pillows, & loungers for a 21st century classroom seating style that allows students to collaborate, create, and empower each other.
Last summer I joined a movement to follow a blended learning model in my classroom. I dumped traditional desks and chairs. I made multiple "learning hubs". My students have a choice of how and where they learn. My students work in groups to solve problems, while I guide them down the right path.
Our school follows an inclusion model.
Which means we have all kinds of learners in the same class. I must be able to meet the needs of my speakers of other languages, varying special needs, gifted and typical learners all at the same time. There is no way to do that in a whole group traditional teaching style. I use an online platform called ecampus, to deliver personalized lessons to each student. My students love our new classroom set up, they can't wait to come in each morning and get to work. They immediately tell me about the learning they were able to continue at home, because of the online nature. Students aren't just using technology, they are problem solving, working together, and completely committed to the task at hand.
My Project
Imagine walking into your favorite movie, coffee shop, or even your living room... How long would you stay if you had to sit straight up, in a hard chair that's either too tall or too short for you? Never mind how long would you stay, but how long would you be able to pay attention, if you are uncomfortable? I need my students to give me their best, most engaged minds. I envision my students walking in, finding seating that suits them and the task they are completing. It might be sitting in a lounger learning how to "code" our BeeBot on their iPad or reading their favorite book to their partner. Four of them might grab cushions and lay on their bellies to work in a group sorting and reading sight words or solving the problem of how to create a home conducive to our worms. Another group may work on the sofa and coffee table. Working together, solving problems, learning- that's how I see my students using these materials.
My students are just beginning their school career.
I believe my main job, that I must accomplish, is to make my students love school. No, I don't want them to just love school, I want them to love learning! If I haven't done that, then I am not setting them up for success. Allowing students the freedom to control how and where they learn, allows them to take responsibility for their own learning. Creating a classroom where 5 and 6 year olds can learn best, is my mission.
Half 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
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. Johnston and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
