This project is part of the Black History Month celebration because it supports a Black teacher or a school where the majority of the students are Black.
My Students
High school can be difficult for the average student. My students are not the accelerated caliber, but they work hard everyday. Most of my students are ninth grade and apprehensive about school, some border-line drop outs. My students come from a variety of economic backgrounds with over 70% receiving free lunch.
The students work hard everyday and want to be successful in life, but may have outside influences that may hinder that dream.
These students struggle in math and reading and need extra encouragement and motivation to push them to see the light at the end of the tunnel.
My Project
Everyone loves being outdoors! Students and teachers alike will enjoy the opportunity to take their lesson outside and listen to the birds chirp while completing assignments. Poetry lessons will be a lot more interesting as students can look at nature for true inspiration. Students working collaboratively will have more space to spread out and discuss topics without being confined in an indoor space where the noise level can easily get out of control.
The outdoor classroom will be adjacent to our library and a small pond, so completing research ideas or projects will be convenient and added bonus for students.
Even in high school, students appreciate a change of scenery every now and again; having the opportunity to take their work outside is an added benefit!
The picnic tables will be used for seat work and group discussions. The tables are round which make it easier for all students to participate and share thoughts while collaborating. The fountain for the small pond will provide a relaxing atmosphere for the independent lessons student will complete on their own. The outdoor classroom will provide an alternate space that will allow my students to think outside the box and get away--for just a few moments- from a "boring" classroom.
I read that nature boosts student motivation and competence. I believe this is true and hope this research will benefit my students. Once the outdoor classroom is complete, this space can be used by other classes, as well as teachers can enjoy their lunch in this nice, calming space.
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. Milons and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
