Engineers, programmers, artists, and philosophers, are just some of the roles my students take on every day in my rural southeastern Pennsylvania classroom. Parents, colleagues, and I are continually impressed with how much a 7 or 8-year-old can learn when given the time, resources, and ability to learn what is passionate to them in a supportive environment.
Our school has seen a shift in population recently and we are finding ourselves with more challenges than ever in the classroom.
We have a high percentage of special needs students and a continually growing number of economically disadvantaged students.
I have learned over my short seven years as a teacher that students need to feel like their classroom is a second home. I have calming lights, flexible seating options, and use music and scents to set a meditative feel throughout the room. The result is a safe space where kids feel supported both academically and emotionally. I am creating a page on this site to help continue to advance the atmosphere of my classroom for my students beyond what I am able to provide on my own.
My Project
Learning in the 21st century is drastically different from learning in previous generations.
My students spend most of their day questioning, collaborating, making, and exploring - all of which are critical skills for functioning in the world today.
Over the past few years I have slowly transitioned my classroom to a flexible learning space in which my students can practice these 21st century skills. When my students arrive each morning, they can expect to see the fluorescent ceiling lights turned off and instead table and floor lamps shining brightly. Essential oils are being diffused to increase brain power. Calm music is playing.
My students feel as though they are entering a second home when they arrive each day except for...
ONE. BIG. GLARING. PROBLEM.
DESKS!
My students are begging to be freed from the confines of a small desk and have the opportunity to collaborate with their peers on tables. After scouring the remains of foregone furniture around my school, I came up empty handed. Unwilling to give up, I am turning to you.
Please consider helping my students complete their 21st century learning experience by donating to supply us with two Flex Space floor tables that students can sit at while working on the floor. Your kindness will be appreciate for many years to come!
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 Mr. Barrett and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
