I want my students to know that learning takes place everywhere. They need to understand that learning doesn't only come from a book or the four walls of our classroom. It comes from what we see, hear and experience. My students need to know that they can seek out opportunities and challenges, be positive and be resilient. Healthier and happier children do better in school and I may be the only person my students have to make them realize their worth.
The majority of my students live below the poverty line with caretakers and relatives that are not their parents.
Many of the students come from families that do not have more than a middle school education. My goal is to make learning fun, exciting and new for both the children and their families.
My Project
It is essential that young children get opportunities to explore and learn in the outdoor environment. Learning outside the classroom supports the development of healthy and active lifestyles by offering children freedom and movement and also promotes a sense of well-being.
There has been a cultural shift in our society that has reduced the use of outdoors for many young children.
Two reasons being the child's safety and technological advances. It is very important for children to have daily outdoor experiences to help encourage their learning and development.
There are many benefits to having an outside learning area. It can help children understand and respect nature, the environment and the interdependence of humans, animals, plants, and life cycles and it supports children’s problem-solving skills and their creativity. Young children learn through their senses and experiences which heavily influence their brain development. Learning that flows seamlessly between indoors and outdoors builds students' interests and enthusiasms. It gets them excited about learning!
Nearly all 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
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. Barnes and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
