I teach first grade in a school that has a mix of children. Our school implements The Leader in Me and also has a Gifted and Talented program. Many of my students come from neighborhoods outside of our boundaries because they have older sibling in the Gifted and Talented program.
My students, although young, love unconditionally and want to be accepted.
Many of my students are new to my school. Some have split families. Some are in foster care. Even though they all have different circumstances, all of my students want to have a friend.
My Project
Have you ever noticed the students that walk around the playground instead of playing? How about the student that chooses to talk to the teachers for the entire recess? Or sit in the shade against the wall because they are SO HOT! Not all children like to play sports or have friends to "hangout" with. The Buddy Bench will fill the void for these students by having a safe haven.
Having a buddy bench on our playground is a simple solution to eliminating loneliness, and fostering friendship on the playground.
Having the Buddy Bench on our playground will not only help my 27 students, it will provide a place for all 737 students in my school to make lasting friendships.
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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. Sorenson and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.