Coloring Outside the Lines: Art for Expression and Connection
Help me give my students a variety of adaptive art supplies (like sensory-friendly paints, oversized crayons, textured paper, and safety scissors), along with visual art curriculum books specifically designed for neurodiverse learners.
$678 goal
This project expired on September 9, 2025.
This project expired on September 9, 2025.
My Project
Help My Autistic Students Communicate, Create, and Connect Through Art!
My classroom is a safe, structured haven for incredible 3rd–5th grade students with autism who are in a self-contained special education setting.
These students face unique challenges every day—from communicating their thoughts and emotions to developing fine motor control and navigating social situations. But when we bring out the art supplies, something amazing happens: their world opens up.
Art is more than creativity—it’s a language for my students. With access to quality art materials and a sensory-friendly curriculum, they are able to express feelings they may not yet have words for. It supports their speech development, emotional regulation, and social interaction in powerful, research-backed ways. When one student paints how he feels instead of melting down, or another learns to request a crayon using her AAC device, it’s clear: art is transformational.
This project will fund adaptive, inclusive art supplies and a visual-based curriculum specifically chosen to meet the needs of autistic students. Every brushstroke helps improve fine motor skills. Every collaborative art activity supports social growth. Every completed piece builds confidence and communication.
With your help, we can provide a creative outlet that becomes a lifeline. Please partner with us to give these amazing learners the tools they need to thrive—one color, one word, one breakthrough at a time.
Nearly all 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
14 students impacted
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U.S. Art Supply 10 Piece Children's No Spill Paint Cups with Colored Lids and 10 Piece Large Round Brush Set with Plastic Handles
• Amazon Business
$19.99
5
$99.95
100 Pieces Watercolor Paper 140 lb/ 300 GSM Heavyweight Art Paint Paper White Water Coloring Paint Paper for Artist and Kids (9 x 12 Inch)
• Amazon Business
$26.99
3
$80.97
Colorations Washable Markers, Set of 256, 16 Colors, Non Toxic | Bulk Art Supplies For Kids, Classroom Kit, Coloring Class Pack, Crafting Materials For Children
• Amazon Business
$71.50
1
$71.50
Crayola Crayon Classpack, 800 Count, Bulk School Supplies For Teachers, Large Crayon Box, 8 Colors
• Amazon Business
$48.45
1
$48.45
Crayola Oil Pastels - Assorted Colors, Classpack of 336
• Blick Art Materials
$42.60
1
$42.60
School Smart Washable Tempera Paints for School and Arts and Crafts Use, 16 Ounces Each, Assorted Colors, Set of 12
• Amazon Business
Sea View Treasures 45 Piece Bulk Paint Brush and Tools Mega Assortment
• Amazon Business
$26.99
1
$26.99
Elements of Art & Principles of Design Art Poster 5" X 16" (Set of 16)
• Amazon Business
$23.95
1
$23.95
24 Pack Watercolor Paint Set, Washable Water Color Kids Paint Set with Paintbrush for Toddlers Adults, Art Supplies for Preschool Classroom Party Favor Valentines Gifts
• Amazon Business
$23.49
1
$23.49
Art Is Fundamental: Teaching the Elements and Principles of Art in Elementary School
• Amazon Business
$18.55
1
$18.55
The Elements of Art: An Elementary Art Teacher's Guide to Color, Shape, Texture, and More
• Amazon Business
$17.99
1
$17.99
Draw, Paint, Sparkle: Creative Projects from an Elementary Art Teacher
• Amazon Business
$14.58
1
$14.58
Materials cost
$525.38
Vendor shipping charges
$13.02
Sales tax
$0.00
3rd party payment processing fee
$7.88
Fulfillment labor & materials
$30.00
Total project cost
$576.28
Suggested donation to help DonorsChoose reach more classrooms
$101.70
Total project goal
$677.98
Our team works hard to negotiate the best pricing and selections available.
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. Brazeil and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
