This project is a part of the Hispanic & Latinx Heritage Month celebration because
it supports a Latino teacher or a school where the majority of students are Latino.
My Students
As adults, we have hectic schedules, high expectations and little time for leisure. This chaotic life is no longer limited to adults, but it is now sadly applicable to children as young as 6. The rigorous standards for a 1st grader are overwhelming and the need for recreation is imperative.
My class consists of 20 bright and friendly children.
They put in a lot of effort in the classroom and are very energetic. They enjoy laughing and participating in the conversations that take place concerning the dayâÂÂs lesson or their own interests. Most students in my class are Latinos from low-income homes. As a result, many of the students live in dangerous neighborhoods where the simple pleasure of playing outside of their own home is denied to them. The only time they are able to exercise and play with other children is at recess. This is not nearly enough exercise. And because of school budget cuts, our school does not have the privilege to purchase additional equipment for the playground much less equipment for dance and movement.
My Project
The supplies that I require for my students are necessary for developing various skills that are usually neglected within the classroom. The CD's, scarves, wrist ribbons, and rhythm sticks will be used during our dance period. I will teach the students numerous dances while they use these items as a form of interpretive dance. The importance of such a lesson lies in the fact that the students are gaining countless skills that are not usually attained sitting in a class. Dancing is first and foremost a form of exercise. It is therefore a joyful and fun way for the students to stay active and in turn, stay healthy. The students will also have to work in groups while memorizing the dance steps. This aids in their cognitive development and teaches them the importance of collaboration. The wonderful advantage of dance is that it is a way for students to embrace different forms of physical expression from around the world.
These lessons will further help my students become healthy while reinforcing camaraderie and friendly competition.
This is why it is so essential for physical activity to make a return to the classroom. It is why I want to bring dance and active games back into my curriculum. Ultimately, the benefits from this project will strengthen our classroom community in a way that will indeed lead to a âÂÂsound body, sound mindâ for all of these marginalized students.
Nearly all 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 Mrs. Cervantes and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
