Help me give my students flexible seating and movement options to help to keep our students active and learning. Standing desks and balance balls will allow for continued active engagement.
I teach math in a diverse suburban school district in Bloomfield NJ. My students are fun-loving, positive, and active. They come from all walks of life and have a range of abilities.
"Tell me and I forget, teach me and I remember, involve me and I learn." Over the years, I have learned that students live up to this saying.
There are times that I can explain a concept in words multiple times to a room a blank faces. However, if I engage them in hands-on activities, they internalize the lessons. We often use whiteboards and a variety of manipulatives to practice the skills that we cover in class.
I have learned that it is difficult for 13-year olds to sit still for a long period of time. If I had a dollar for every time I told a student to stop rocking in their chair, I'd be rich. Students always have option of standing, doodling, and taking brain breaks to help them stay focused during our 84 minute blocks.
My Project
At 13 years old 84 minutes can seem like an eternity. With flexible seating I am hoping to make the most of that time with stimulating seating options. Stools for small group instruction help to make extra help more accessible and discrete at an age where image means everything.
Balance ball seats are known to help to boost energy levels and increase productivity with an active body and a focused and engaged mind.
They are considered an active outlet for having to sit for longer periods of time. Fidget bands are intended for much the same reasons. They are can be used to reduce anxiety and increase focus by allowing students to "fidget" without distracting the class.
Some students also find that standing helps them to focus and stay active in class. The standing desk converters are designed to be placed on top of student desks to give them a work space while allowing them to stand and move about a bit.
Most importantly all of these materials provide the students with options with gives them the opportunity to make decisions about their learning and be an active participant in it.
Stand Steady Original Standing Desk – Large Surface (23.5 in x 20 in) – New Taller Model with Non-skid Feet. Instantly Convert any Surface to a Standing Desk!
• Amazon Business
$64.99
2
$129.98
Gaiam Classic Balance Ball Chair – Exercise Stability Yoga Ball Premium Ergonomic Chair for Home and Office Desk with Air Pump, Exercise Guide and Satisfaction Guarantee, Cool Grey
• Amazon Business
$58.63
2
$117.26
Norwood Commercial Furniture NOR-STOOLBS-SO Plastic Stack Stools
• Amazon Business
$38.26
1
$38.26
Set of 20 JeVenis Natural Latex Stretch Foot Bands Chair Fidget Bands Workout Autism Sensory Needs Stretch Foot Band for Chairs by Rehab or Physical Therapy
• Amazon Business
$32.88
1
$32.88
Materials cost
$318.38
Vendor shipping charges
FREE
Sales tax
$0.00
3rd party payment processing fee
$4.78
Fulfillment labor & materials
$30.00
Total project cost
$353.16
Suggested donation to help DonorsChoose reach more classrooms
$62.32
Total project goal
$415.48
How we calculate what's needed
Total project goal
$415.48
1 Donor
-$415.48
Donations toward project cost
-$353.16
Donations 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. Lucas and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.