My students need space and materials to learn how to participate in small group work and cooperative activities, and to have the ability to learn essential kindergarten academics in an individualized way.
My students are new learners! They are 4, 5, and 6 years old and have a variety of special needs and differing abilities. Many of them came from a preschool setting, but this is their first experience in a larger public school setting and there is a lot for them to learn!
I'm hoping to purchase materials and resources that will help my little learners get a strong foundation for their education and to develop a love for learning, while receiving support for their different disabilities and learning challenges.
I currently have 15 students on my special education caseload, though that number will increase as the school years unfolds and more students are identified as having learning needs. My students will receive a combination of push-in services (support in the classroom within a larger group) and pull-out services (support in a resource room in a small group and/or one-on-one setting), as well as support in the hallways, bathrooms, playground, lunch room, school bus, and resources and interventions that carry over into their home life.
My Project
Kindergarten is so important for children to learn about themselves and to begin their journey of formal education. My students are taught academics, social skills, emotional regulation, communication, and self-help skills, as well as how to follow rules and expectations, how to be independent and self-sufficient, and what their interests, strengths, and needs are.
By having access to materials and tools that support all areas of development, my students can have educational experiences that include their special needs and help them be successful in school.
Many academic skills will be addressed through math and literacy activities such as Word Family Flip Books and Magnetic Math Activity Tins. These activities will take place at a small group table while utilizing Wobble Chairs and they’ll allow students to work with a teacher, with peers, or independently, and allow teachers to individualize and differentiate instruction. Social skills and emotional regulation are supported through books, group games and activities, flexible seating, and sensory tools, and the Social-Emotional Learning Kit would encourage important skills. Every item included in my project would be so appreciated and valued by my students and teaching team!
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. McLean and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
