I teach in a special education classroom, in a public Title 1 elementary school. The students in my classroom are inquisitive, creative, and unique. The students in my classroom all have moderate to severe disabilities. Some students are on the Autism Spectrum, some of my students have Orthopedic Impairments. The majority of students in my classroom aren't able to communicate verbally, and instead rely on alternative modes of communication to express their needs.
Instead of focusing on my students' disabilities, we prefer to focus on their amazing and unique abilities.
These unique abilities allow my students to view the world in quirky and interesting ways. They learn differently from most students, but are always willing and interested to gain knowledge and experiences.
Each student in my classroom loves to learn, however the method and environment in which they thrive often varies greatly. My students often require creative accommodations and modifications to thrive. In my classroom we have to incorporate many sensory tools, flexible seating options, alternate communication devices, differentiated materials, and a variety of other learning strategies to help meet their needs. The students in my classroom are incredible!
My Project
The Cajon Valley Union School District utilizes a unique additional curriculum known as the World of Work.With an aim of closing the unemployment gap, the WoW curriculum enables students to map their educational goals to create a path to gainful employment. Students will have the opportunity to explore possible career paths while also learning about their strengths and interests. One of the World of Work 5th grade careers is a Horticulturist. An accessible garden will allow my students the opportunity to learn about this career path, while also learning about plants, nutrition, and sustainability.
This grant will allow dozens of students, many of whom are low-income and have unique abilities, the opportunity to explore all of their senses while learning important skills.
Students will be able to dig for worms, smell fresh basil and lemon verbena, and taste a juicy tomato freshly plucked from the vine, things that they might not have had the opportunity to experience previously. Throughout the school year, the following topics will be covered: planning a garden, seed starting, planting, harvesting, composting, and donating the crops to those in need.
The students who are responsible for planning the crops will benefit from the real-life math and science lessons. The students responsible for maintaining the garden will learn valuable life skills, functional skills, and vocational skills. Students will be able to practice important skills relevant to the World of Work curriculum. Students will benefit from the teamwork and cooperation necessary to build and maintain an accessible food garden.
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
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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. Michelle and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
