I am beginning this school year in a new school in a new district in a new state. I will be serving in a school where (according to the state report card) 83% of the students are high needs. Of those, 72% are economically disadvantaged and 38% are classified as having a disability. I'll be working with children who don't have a sense of belonging (50%) and who feel disengaged (65%).
With the purchase of a classroom rug, we will have a place to learn & demonstrate self awareness, to continue to develop interpersonal skills like empathy & respect, to practice problem-solving skills, to engage in mindfulness practices, etc.
I cannot help these children grow academically until they feel safe and cared for, heard and supported.
Currently, our morning meetings will start this year on the bare floor. I have spent my own money beautifying the room: painting over green chalkboards, covering metal surfaces with shiplap contact paper, bringing in plants, creating a variety of decor, etc. These small, fairly inexpensive improvements have added up. I just can't afford a rug meeting the certified Class I rating of NFPA 253 and the fire-resistance standards of the Uniform Building Code.
My Project
One of the wonderful things about this gift is the fact that it will be used daily. Every morning, my students and I will gather to have our morning meetings: share news, build character, role-play problem-solving activities, practice mindfulness, etc. Morning meetings are part of the school's turn around plan. We want to turn around our students' sense of belonging and engagement. Having an inviting space in the classroom to do this will be a step in the right direction.
Since this isn't a consumable item, the impact will go beyond this year's 15 students.
Giving to this project with be the gift that keeps on giving. It will be a gathering place for my students for years to come!
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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 Ms. DeVos and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.