What is the best way to teach vocational skills to students with a wide variety of disabilities? Our goal is to build an accessible greenhouse, teach students the science behind the agriculture, and develop their vocational skills by growing mixed salad greens.
Students with disabilities face a number of challenges.
Academics are often so difficult students are left feeling hopeless. What a source of pleasure to offer these students opportunities to feel empowered and successful. There is nothing more fulfilling than being able to see the fruits of your labor; this project would enable our staff to show students exactly this. Our greenhouse project will enable students to literally get their hands dirty, and watch their work come to life. Once they have developed the soil and grown our product we can begin to offer it to others, and the true vision is be able to start a business and possibly grow the lettuce to be served in our school as a healthier alternative. The gift of pride could then replace the challenge. Our students already accept the challenge, they can’t wait to begin, and will you help us please?
My Project
Teaching for 19 years, I have been able to facilitate a number of amazing opportunities for students. None have had the impact that this project has the potential for. I serve students with mild to moderate disabilities and provide instruction and support in general curriculum, life skills class and vocational experiences. It is the mission of our Special Education Cooperative to create successful independent citizens, and I believe I work daily to accomplish this mission. The district will assist us in preparing the property and purchasing the greenhouse. With the given state of the economy, it will be difficult for us to acquire all the tools necessary to make this a successful project. I have requested tools such as, wheelchair accessible gardening tools, gloves, trays, carts and supplies to operate the greenhouse. When complete, this business has the opportunity to provide students with the skills for competitive employment. It will also be sustainable for future generations.
If you believe it you can achieve it.
I have been able to offer a variety of opportunities to students by living and teaching to this motto. I know we can make this dream a reality. It is so important to provide our students with relevant and meaningful opportunities to develop their skills and in turn influence a community. I believe my students with their unique needs and talents deserve this opportunity. When we’re up and running I’ll bet you would love to taste our greens!
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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. Fagerness and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.