My students need flexible seating options and storage bins to enhance our learning environment and motivate them to be in charge of their learning at all times.
As a teacher in a low income/high poverty school, my students are faced with many challenges beyond the classroom.
Despite the challenges these students face, it is my job to ensure they are engaged in the learning process each day.
My 4th grade classroom is a safe and supportive place for students to inquire, explore, and discover their fullest potential. These students are growing up and learning in the same rural community that inspired me to become a teacher. They are curious thinkers who dream big. It is my goal to provide an environment in which my students can engage in creative and meaningful learning experiences.
My Project
A 2015 study completed by the University of Salford shows that student learning can increase by as much as 16% by simply offering a variety of seating options. Think about it. As a child, would you want to sit in a stiff chair at a hard desk all day next to a chatty neighbor? My classroom is open each day by 7:10 and students have 1 short break before our 12:15 lunch. This is a long time for children to sit in a hard chair. Providing flexible seating options motivates students to give their best efforts while working comfortably and having the option to change their seat as necessary.
The foam sheets and nylon thread in this project will provide at least 20 comfortable, flexible seating options - 16 milk crate cushions, 2 stool paddings, and beans to refill our 2 bean bags.
Over the years, I have added a few sturdy yard sale finds and milk crate seats to the classroom environment. Some of these items are in need of soft cushions, and we need a few more seating options. We will use our flexible seating throughout our day; from the Morning Meeting to Reading, Writing, Science, and Social Studies.
This project will allow me to provide enough voice and choice in daily seating so that every child can be a proactive leader whom is in charge of their learning by having an alternative seating choice available at all times. Students have proven to me time and time again they love to work away from their desks and will work harder when provided seating choices. With this project I will be able to create a comfortable, homelike environment in which students will thrive and look forward to coming to school each day.
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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. Cribb and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
