If I could describe my classroom in five words, they would be: community, intellectual, deserving, self-reliant and courageous. Students in my class have ownership of their own learning and a lot of what goes on happens organically. The desire I have for teaching first grade shows through my students. Hearing any student say, “I love coming to school" is the biggest reward and tells me I am engaging my students and meeting their needs. Every student in my classroom has a unique voice and everyone in the room must respect it.
Creating community is essential to taking risks and deeper learning.
I care about kids and they know it. Taking the time to know my students well, not just as learners, but also as people has helped to create a real sense of belonging in our shared space. I make sure that my classroom is a safe environment whether their priority is to learn or to have a place to feel welcome. All students know their needs are being met in my classroom no matter their situation.
My Project
I have recently piloted a technology course to further my students technology education! One aspect they have been fascinated by is the idea of coding in the elementary classroom.
My students are working in a coding program that allows them to use problem solving skills that enrich all areas of their academic and social skills.
I want to take the program from the computer and put it into a tangible project for the students to manipulate and think logistically. They will be creating codes to make the mice or the robot move through obstacles. This will be extremely engaging for all students.
My first graders need to be exposed to fields that are expanding as possible careers for them like coding and computer programming. This will allow students the opportunity to be creative but also be learning at the same time.
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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 Mrs. Rankin and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.