Each year, I have a unique and wonderful group of learners. 2nd graders are a wonderful mix of growing independence and excited curiosity. They grow so much in just one school year, working on goal setting, developing leadership skills, and working with classmates to listen and share ideas. One of my favorite aspects of the elementary classroom is coming together in a shared space to share a book, to share questions, and to start having meaningful conversations about character develop and academic growth. My little learners always amaze me with their compassion, their curiosity, and their humor. 2nd grade really is the best!
My Project
COVID-19 changed the way teachers taught and students learned. Last school year, my school district was fortunate to be able to meet in person for almost the entire school year. However, the "classroom carpet," a large area rug or carpet where the entire class can sit together with the teacher, was eliminated in my classroom, and many others, to accommodate social distancing and to take every precaution possible. This was heartbreaking for all teachers because the classroom carpet is where so many valuable things take place in the classroom. This is where I am able to meet together and start building my classroom community, fostering strong bonds and a sense of belonging, respect, and family" among students. Just like eating dinner together in the home, sitting together in the classroom for brief periods throughout each day is so important. I did not realize how much removing the classroom carpet would affect the learning, sense of community, and the overall mood in my 2nd grade room last year, but boy it did!! So, this year, I am wanting to still respect COVID-19 precautions, but have somewhat of a classroom "carpet" by using yoga mat squares for students to sit on instead (1 yoga mat can be cut in half to make 2 squares). We can still meet together as a group, but spread out a bit more, remain sanitary, and not be sitting on the cold, hard floor. They can be disinfected easily and be stored away in bins when we are not meeting together. One of my biggest goals this school year is to start the year off by building strong bonds with and among my students, because when there is a strong sense of community, the classroom becomes a safe place to take risks and expand the mind!
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
Mind Reader YOGAPVC-BLK All Purpose Extra Thick Yoga Fitness & Exercise Mats with Carrying Strap, High Density Anti-Tear, Black
• Amazon Business
$13.73
15
$205.95
Square Storage Bins Canvas Collapsible Storage Basket with Handles Toy Organizer for Nursery, Kid's Toys, Closet & Laundry, Gift Baskets(Polyline)
• Amazon Business
$9.99
3
$29.97
Lysol Disinfectant Spray, Crisp Linen, 25oz (2X12.5oz)
• Amazon Business
$8.78
3
$26.34
Materials cost
$262.26
Vendor shipping charges
FREE
Sales tax
$0.00
3rd party payment processing fee
$3.93
Fulfillment labor & materials
$30.00
Total project cost
$296.19
Suggested donation to help DonorsChoose reach more classrooms
$52.27
Total project goal
$348.46
How we calculate what's needed
Total project goal
$348.46
5 Donors
-$318.46
Donations toward project cost
-$270.69
Donations to help DonorsChoose reach more classrooms
-$47.77
match offer
-$30.00
Match offer toward project cost
-$25.50
Match offer to help DonorsChoose reach more classrooms
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 Ms. Rinehart and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.