Watching my second grade student tap dance effortlessly in the talent show with a huge smile on her face made my heart fill with joy knowing how far she had come this year. This student came into class distracted and often disruptive. However, with lots of love and acceptance she grew into a happy, well adjusted, and smart girl. That to me is what teaching is all about .My students are an amazing group of learners who are highly creative critical thinkers. They are team players who are willing to participate, engage and take risks. In addition, my students are polite, respectful and get along with their peers. The sense of pride they have in their classroom community is so meaningful and enriching that I learn from them on a daily basis.
My Project
If I were given the the opportunity of incorporating a flexible seating arrangement in my classroom, I know it would increase student "buy in" and involvement. It would also simply make a more comfortable environment for student learning. I believe that being comfortable allows students to become vested in tasks and their behavior becomes equally positive. When students are comfortable they are less distracted and disruptive. They are calm, focused and productive. In addition, when I give students choice, for example where they'd like to sit or the option of movement, I've found they are willing to work with others, share ideas and work as a team.
I have always known that physical activity in the classroom, such as moving, stretching, or walking can enhance the learning process.
It increases motivation and engagement, creates better oxygen flow to the brain and improves core strength and posture. It's no surprise that physical activity is linked to higher academic performance, better health and improved behavior.
Having a flexible seating environment will give students choice and the ability to solve their own problems. It also helps with team work as stated earlier. Not only does it make it easier for students to work in pairs or in small groups, it helps create a community as they share their space and supplies rather remain territorial. It encourages them to take turns with seating locations and with different seating options.
I think the fact that students will have a choice in their learning and where they want to learn will make such a difference to them. Students need the opportunity to move, make choices, build a community, and problem solve. I am very excited to enter this innovative way of working together with my students to create our flexible classroom.
Kore Patented WOBBLE Chair, Made in the USA, Active Sitting for Toddler, Pre-School, Kids, and Teens; Kids don't have to sit still anymore - "The BEST seat in any Classroom"! - Red - Kids (14in)
• Amazon Business
$69.99
3
$209.97
Kore Patented WOBBLE Chair, Made in the USA, Active Sitting for Toddler, Pre-School, Kids, and Teens; Kids don't have to sit still anymore - "The BEST seat in any Classroom"! - Blue - Kids (14in)
• Amazon Business
$69.99
2
$139.98
Norwood Commercial Furniture NOR-STOOLBS-SO Plastic Stack Stool, 17 3/4" Height, 11 3/4" Width, 11 3/4 " Length, Black with Silver Legs (Pack of 5)
• Amazon Business
$51.94
1
$51.94
Dial 705-AST Handy and Stackable Lap Tray, Assorted Color
• Amazon Business
$16.54
1
$16.54
Materials cost
$418.43
Vendor shipping charges
FREE
Sales tax
$38.29
3rd party payment processing fee
$6.28
Fulfillment labor & materials
$30.00
Total project cost
$493.00
Suggested donation to help DonorsChoose reach more classrooms
$87.00
Total project goal
$580.00
How we calculate what's needed
Total project goal
$580.00
1 Donor
-$290.00
Donations toward project cost
-$246.50
Donations to help DonorsChoose reach more classrooms
-$43.50
match offer
-$290.00
Match offer toward project cost
-$246.50
Match offer to help DonorsChoose reach more classrooms
DonorsChoose is the most trusted classroom funding site for teachers.
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. Maurer's Colts and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
