I teach at an elementary school in Hilo, Hawaii. My students represent many different cultures and economic backgrounds. Most of my students are "disadvantaged" due to economic backgrounds.
I've recently moved from a 3rd grade classroom to a 2nd grade classroom this school year.
Our school has been using a state mandated reading and math curriculum. Many of our students are struggling, especially with the reading curriculum. Many of our students have never left the Hawaiian islands; therefore, their personal experiences are very limited.
Our students experience difficulty relating to the stories shared in the reading curriculum, because of their limited exposure to different climates and cultures. Although my students may be facing challenges in their lives, they are always eager to learn new things!
My Project
One of my goals this year is to transform my second grade classroom from a traditional setting to a flexible seating classroom. Flexible seating allows students to work with their peers collaboratively.
This red flower shaped activity table will be a great addition to our student centered learning environment!
I am hoping to see a positive impact on student engagement and learning with this new physical transformation! My second graders have chosen this table shape and color because it will help brighten up our classroom. This new addition will allow my students to choose where they would like to work and learn.
More than 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
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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. Hayashi and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.