I teach in St. Charles, MO. My school is a low-income school with a very transient population. My first graders are always full of life, and especially - ENERGY! I have always been an advocate for student seating choices because it is not developmentally appropriate for 6&7 year-olds to sit for long periods of time without movement!
Our school is more than 70% free and reduced lunch.
We are a very small school with only 200-250 students in the entire building.
LES is a small school with a big heart!
My Project
I am hoping to start flexible seating with my first graders this coming school year. Students will have a choice of where to work and how to sit while they work. I believe the stability balls will work for kids who need to activate their muscles while working. The Stability disks will be for kids who need some sensory integration while working. The lap desks will come in handy for those who like to sit on the floor or carpet while learning. The "go anywhere" chairs will help when students are choosing to sit at smaller or lower tables or carpet areas to work.
I'm a firm believer in keeping the focus on what's really important: the students.
If student motivation and higher engagement is truly the desired end game, then we as teachers must adapt right along with our students in our classrooms. I believe that when students have choice, they are able to focus, keep themselves motivated, and feel more comfortable while they work. This is a win-win for all!
Some benefits of flexible seating choices include burning more calories, using up excess energy, improving metabolism, increased motivation and engagement, creating a better oxygen flow to the brain, and improving core strength and overall posture. It's no surprise that physical activity is linked to higher academic performance, better health, and improved behavior! Please help us!
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. Trauterman and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
