Have you ever heard of a NEST classroom before? The goal of the ASD Nest Support Project is to advance the development and implementation of educational solutions for children living with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The ASD Nest Model is designed for students with Autism who are able to do grade-level academic work. We create a fully inclusive therapeutic environment that uses positive behavior support, targeted instructional strategies and specialized social interventions to make inclusion work.
My co-teacher and I teach second graders who are working hard not only on academics but also navigating the social world.
We choose to celebrate their strengths and use those strengths along with their interests to motivate them to work to their fullest potential. Our class prides itself on being a community of learners who aren't afraid to take risks, who support one another and who are working on being life-long learners!
My Project
This past school year, our class got a pet through a Petco Grant. Our bearded dragon, whom the children named "Spike Pancake Blackbeard", has thrived. We did such a good job of taking care of Spike that he needs an upgraded, larger tank and supplies. The children helped feed him, bathed him, earned time with him, and read to him. He sincerely benefited our classroom culture. A 2017 study of class pets found many benefits. Key findings in the study include:
Behavioral Impact: When an animal is brought into a classroom setting, students are more likely to follow instructions and to focus on a task.
They ask more appropriate questions and engage with their teacher more. There are fewer emotional outbursts and more positive behaviors.
Social Interaction: The studies show that when there are animals present in classroom settings, students start paying attention and sitting still. In fact, one study showed kids actually paid more attention to the teacher in the presence of a dog.
Attitude Improvement: These studies also found that the presence of a dog in the classroom can improve children's attitude toward school and helps them to learn responsibility, respect and empathy.
We would love to continue to help Spike grow. So please help us get him a 40-gallon tank, along with the proper light fixtures and habitat accessories. Thank you so much in advance!
Half of students from low‑income households
Data about students' economic need comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. Learn more
REPTIZOO Reptile Glass Terrarium,Double Hinge Door with Screen Ventilation Reptile Terrarium 36" x 18" x 18"(Knock-Down)
• Amazon Business
$289.99
1
$289.99
Zilla Desert T8 Light Fixture, 24-Inch
• Amazon Business
$36.64
1
$36.64
(2 Pack) Zoo Med Repti Cage Carpet 18" x 36" each
• Amazon Business
$33.77
1
$33.77
Zoo Med Basking Spot Lamps 100 Watt - 6 Total Bulbs (3 Packs with 2 per Pack)
• Amazon Business
$31.28
1
$31.28
Penn Plax Lizard Lounger, 100% Natural Seagrass Fibers for Anoles, Bearded Dragons, Geckos, Iguanas, and Hermit Crabs Rectangular 7 x 29 Inches
• Amazon Business
$16.94
1
$16.94
Veanic 4-Pack Mini Digital Electronic Temperature Humidity Meters Gauge Indoor Thermometer Hygrometer LCD Display Fahrenheit (℉) for Humidors, Greenhouse, Garden, Cellar, Fridge, Closet
• Amazon Business
$13.29
1
$13.29
Fluker's Extra Large Critter Cavern Reptile/Small Animal Hide
• Amazon Business
$12.72
1
$12.72
Zilla Premium Reflector Dome, Black 8.5"
• Amazon Business
$11.99
1
$11.99
Materials cost
$446.62
Vendor shipping charges
FREE
Sales tax
$0.00
3rd party payment processing fee
$6.70
Fulfillment labor & materials
$30.00
Total project cost
$483.32
Suggested donation to help DonorsChoose reach more classrooms
$85.29
Total project goal
$568.61
How we calculate what's needed
Total project goal
$568.61
8 Donors
-$462.45
Donations toward project cost
-$398.33
Donations to help DonorsChoose reach more classrooms
-$64.12
match offer
-$100.00
Match offer toward project cost
-$85.00
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 Mrs. Mahalko and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
