I teach at an elementary school in Hilo, Hawaii. My students represent many different cultures and economic backgrounds. Most of my students are "disadvantaged" due to economic backgrounds.
I've recently moved from a 3rd grade classroom to a 2nd grade classroom this school year.
Our school has been using a state mandated reading and math curriculum. Many of our students are struggling, especially with the reading curriculum. Many of our students have never left the Hawaiian islands; therefore, their personal experiences are very limited.
Our students experience difficulty relating to the stories shared in the reading curriculum, because of their limited exposure to different climates and cultures. Although my students may be facing challenges in their lives, they are always eager to learn new things!
My Project
This school year, I am trying to transform my second grade classroom from a traditional setting to a flexible seating classroom. This means that I am willing and committed to giving my students more choices and freedom when it comes to how they learn. Flexible seating allows students to work with their peers collaboratively.
Flexible seating will encourage my students to make decisions that will benefit their learning style the MOST!
They will be allowed to choose where they want to work. I am hoping to see a positive impact on student engagement and learning!
My students have chosen this table shape and color that they'd like to have in our classroom. They like the brightness of the yellow and the unique flower shaped table!
More than 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
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