I teach middle school students with a variety of emotional, behavioral, and sensory impairments in our district’s S.A.I.L. (Students Achieving Independent Learning) Program. My students are focusing their time in school on preparing for transition; that looks different for every student. We work with each student individually to help them communicate what their personal goals are and what steps they need take to in order to accomplish those goals.
My students are looking forward to being able to transition from the program into either their home-school or life after school.
All of my students participate in a positive behavior intervention system and social skills training as part of their education. We also work to keep them on track and performing well in all of their academic areas.
My students are looking forward to moving back to their home- school, having positive peer relationships, and being involved, productive members of society when they graduate the program.
My Project
Flexible seating allows students to take charge of their learning and make the choices that work best for them. During independent work times they choose a location in the classroom that works for them. Currently my students do not have very many options when it comes to flexible seating. Making sure students are comfortable is an essential component in motivating them. I have noticed amazing differences other classrooms when students are given a choice in their seating. I want my students to have the opportunity to make good choices about where they sit, become more engaged, and get more work completed than they do when they are just sitting at their desk.
A primary goal for my students is for them to become engaged in their work and less disruptive of their peers when they are given a choice of where to work.
The products that I have selected will help my students by giving them additional options to make more effective learning choices. The wobble stools will allow students to sit at desk/higher tables but will still allow some movement. These will be extremely beneficial for some students that just need to get their energy or anxiety out. They can also be used as an alternative chair if needed! The comfy pea pod, the bouncy chairs, and the beanbag chair will allow for additional comfortable floor seating options where students can calm themselves. They are lightweight and can be easily used in many areas of the classroom. Other items, like the dividers, pillows, and weighted lap pad can allow a student to stay in their seat, while still receiving sensory stimulation.
I have seen how having the power of choice can positively affect students work and demeanor and hope that the additional options will help my students grow even.
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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. Hartwig Schmitz and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
