Do you remember walking into a different classroom in a different school when you were a child? Everything familiar to you was gone - left behind forever. Now imagine that this is happening to you again, except that you have autism and mental retardation. This is how my students feel.
My students are students in a Pennsylvania special education classroom.
The class consists of five boys and one girl, and all range in age from 14 to 17. All have been diagnosed with autism, mental retardation, and speech and language delays. I am the third teacher that they have had in three two years. This classroom has been moved from a middle school environment to a 2000 student high school, and the changes have not been easy for the students.
Most of the items that the students were used to had to be left behind in the old classroom. They now have a new location and a new teacher, and this has been a very hard for individuals who find change difficult to accept.
These students are the best kids! They are loving, friendly, and curious about their new location. I hope to provide them with consistency and an attractive environment for them to learn and thrive in. Please help us!!
My Project
I am requesting basic items to help teach students with autism. I have received some basic items from my organization (desks, school supplies, etc.) and have purchased items personally (books, book cases, rugs, etc.).
Through Donors Choose, I am requesting other basic items. Because my students are easily distracted, I am requesting a divider so that they can have privacy when reading, working, and also to provide a quiet area when they are upset.
A CD player would allow them to listen to and enjoy music, both individually an as a group. I have created a "den" area where they can relax and calm down when stressed and the CD player would be placed there. Students with autism love music! It can encourage speech and interaction with others. It is a powerful motivator.
It has become my mission to have my students enjoy their new classroom and staff. They have seen many changes, and having a familiar, comfortable classroom for them is my top priority.
I have worked with students with autism for four years, and, to me, they are the most fascinating people on this planet.
With autism, students are like a box of chocolates. You never know what you're going to get!
This classroom in particular has truly touched my heart. They have been through so many changes and difficulties, and yet they have bounced back and welcomed me with open arms. I can't help but love them!
My students will truly appreciate your donations and will be very grateful!
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. Stanton and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.