My 6th grade students walk into the classroom where they notice a theme: futuristic spaceships and motivational posters telling them to “REACH FOR THE STARS” and “EXPLORE”! However, it still feels like we are stuck in the past when we are met with the unfortunate reality that we do not have access to technology. I plan to propel my students forward and rocket them INTO THE FUTURE with this set of iPads.
My class consists of twelve students with special needs.
The students are in a special education setting where they learn mathematics, literacy, art and science and receive special education services (speech, OT, PT, counseling, ENL) multiple times a week. Due to the range of each child’s different needs, it creates a high need for differentiation and authentic learning experiences.
They come from various cultural backgrounds, making the classroom a truly unique learning environment. Many of them come from low poverty areas and do not have the opportunity to practice the skills necessary to become successful in today’s 21st century world. I am motivated to provide these tools for my students so that they have a fair and equal opportunity to become successful citizens in today’s tech-centered world.
My Project
Incorporating iPads into the learning environment will support and inspire my students to meet high expectations, both inside and outside of the classroom. My students are challenged and encouraged to grow every day. I plan to build literacy, mathematic and technological skills that will help students gain confidence, and experience learning in different ways. iPads will allow me to differentiate and customize instructional materials to meet the different needs of my students, for example, alternate ways to demonstrate what they have learned. (You can show OR tell!) iPads have numerous modifications and built-in accessibility tools, allowing my students to show that they are meeting their targets. iPads can also promote and enhance my student’s sense of creativity and love for EXPLORING. They’re 6th graders… EVERYTHING is followed by a question! In addition, there are thousands of educational apps that students with special needs can benefit from, along with their mainstreamed peers. Our classroom will be forever changed by the addition of iPads, preparing ALL students for a successful future in the 21st century world!
More than half of 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 Ms. Forlenza and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
