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
I teach physical education to K-8 students who live in a community where fast food restaurants are prevalent and healthy food options are few. Many community members are victims of obesity, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol.
My students live in one of the most dangerous parts of Illinois and the United States, where life can be extremely stressful.
School is a haven of safety for many students. This is my first year teaching here, and the equipment for PE is very limited to a few old basketballs and footballs. The students deserve to have more modern updated equipment that sends a message telling them that they matter. One thing I have already learned about the students here is though circumstances may be challenging, they are resilient and ready for any challenge. I've also seen a desire from students to try to find a better way to resolve problems than fighting or violence. I believe PE is an ideal setting for these lessons to be learned.
My Project
These resources, the result of ideas I learned from seminars at the Illinois Association for Health Physical Education Recreation and Dance (IAHPERD), are beneficial for two main reasons. First, the six Omniken balls and manual provide numerous engaging opportunities for maximal student involvement and increased levels of MVPA (moderate to vigorous physical activity), that is most beneficial for students. These omnikin balls have the potential to motivate and interest my least skilled students all the way to my most skilled. The lower skilled students are often the ones who are most resistant to activity in the gym. If I can gain their interest, it can put them on the road to a much healthier and fulfilling life, which is one of my main goals. Second, and of chief importance, these games are cooperative in nature, forcing students to work with one another rather than against each other. These games teach listening, creativity, and collaboration skills that are important for success in life.
Your donation will make it possible to positively influence my students attitudes and increase their understanding of the importance of physical activity for a lifetime.
You will be an instrumental part of transitioning an entire community towards healthier habits and lifestyle choices. The immediate impact for students is more positive self image, maintaining healthy weight, and learning about healthy lifestyle choices. The long term impact is maintaining a healthy heart in order to P.L.A.Y!
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 Mr. O'Neill and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
