Help me give my students the ability to focus on academic instruction through fidget toys, which are used to provide sensory input in a less distracting way.
FULLY FUNDED! Mr. McElhaney's classroom raised $243
This project is fully funded
My Students
My class is composed of students in grades 6-8 who have been diagnosed with multiple disabilities.
Our mission is to increase the social, emotional, academic, and communication skills of students with multiple disabilities to maximize independence in a school and community environment.
Myself and a paraprofessional have been trained to provide specifically designed programming to meet the needs of each student. This varies from one-to-one verbal behavior instruction with frequent reinforcers to traditional classroom instruction for group activities. A strong component to address social skills is included through direct instruction and organized group activities.
One special education coordinator oversees the general operations of the classroom while a behavior consultant provides supervision of classroom staff and direct consultative services.
In our program, we create, collaborate, and connect with our students, parents, local districts, supportive agencies, and surrounding communities to ensure every student has the chance to make meaningful contributions and personal connections and to live a fulfilling life. We accomplish this through the daily creation of unique learning opportunities that highlight student strengths and improve challenges.
My Project
In my classroom, we focus on functional academics, social skills, and vocational training. I serve students with multiple disabilities and a majority of my students have speech, occupational therapy, physical therapy, or a combination of all services.
According to research, fidget toys can help improve concentration and attention to tasks by allowing the brain to filter out the extra sensory information.
By donating to this project, you will give my students the chance to receive sensory input in a less distracting way. Fidgets create movement which is alerting to the brain, offer deep pressure which is calming and grounding, allowing for oral input which is centering, give tactile input which can keep the brain engaged, and allow for repetition which is also grounding.
More than a third of 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 Mr. McElhaney and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.