Bringing Learning to Life: a River Ecosystem for All Students
Help me give my students the hands-on experiences they need to develop a deep understanding of ecology. The river tank ecosystem kit and supplies will help make abstract ecological concepts more concrete to my special needs students.
FULLY FUNDED! Ms. Jones's classroom raised $883
This project is fully funded
My Project
Imagine a classroom where science comes alive where students see, hear, and touch the natural world instead of just reading about it. A river ecosystem tank will provide hands-on, sensory-friendly learning for both special needs and general education students, helping them grasp complex science concepts in a way that’s engaging, calming, and interactive.
With live fish, aquatic plants, flowing water, and a filtration system, students will observe real-life ecosystems, understanding food chains, water cycles, and environmental balance.
This multi-sensory experience is especially valuable for special needs students, who benefit from visual, tactile, and structured learning experiences. The soothing sound of water and the movement of fish can also create a calming environment that supports focus and engagement.
Our goal is to make science accessible to all learners by fostering curiosity, responsibility, and teamwork. Students will take turns maintaining the ecosystem feeding fish, testing water quality, and tracking growth giving them a sense of ownership and responsibility while developing essential life skills.
My students are inquisitive, creative, and eager to learn, but many struggle with traditional instruction. This project will bridge the gap between theory and real world experience, helping students of all abilities see themselves as scientists, problem-solvers, and caretakers of the environment. With your support, we can transform our classroom into a living lab that inspires lifelong learning.
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
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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. Jones and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
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