My students are from a small, neighborhood school at the base of the beautiful Boise foothills. My school has a very supportive community which helps to contribute to student achievement. My fourth graders are eager learners and they are excited to start a new year! As I look over the curriculum and the year ahead, I've set several goals for the class. One goal, in particular, is to be very mindful of my planning and instruction while integrating creative learning and the use of hands-on tools. Students need to be challenged and involved in a variety of ways, as books aren't the only resource for learning.
My role in the classroom has shifted over the years and has led me to think more and more outside the box.
The future has opened up with the continued advancement in technology and the integration of science, engineering, and mathematics and I need to prepare my students accordingly. I like to bring several types of engaging activities into the classroom to give my students ample opportunities to explore problem-solving and critical thinking.
My Project
In my busy classroom, I make sure to incorporate technology into our everyday routine. I have several devices for the students to use, but as any prized possession, I want to secure those items to ensure longevity. On any given day, we will rotate through a variety of learning centers that ask the students to read, write, respond, communicate, and calculate using tech devices.
Technology has become an integral part of our classroom environment.
We use Chromebooks and iPads to research, present, interact, and to create. I am lucky to have devices to use but I want to make sure they stay safe and secure in the classroom so that they may be used in the years to come. As we delve deeper into project based learning and STEM education, we must have the proper tools at our disposal. Having a Shapes Series 30-device laptop/tablet charging cart with secure locking storage would let me walk away each night knowing that our valued items are secure in the classroom.
Additionally, on any given day, my students are up and about in our fast paced classroom. You'll see my students rotate through our centers, incorporating both reading and math activities. As a teacher, I am fully aware that children need to be active learners. A traditional desk my not be a sufficient work environment for all students, so adding Flash Furniture tractor seats into our classroom would help to give students freedom to work where they work best.
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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. Mansfield and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
