My students need a variety of instruments, including bells, wrist bells, and percussion, that they can use directly from their wheelchairs, and which can be adapted for them.
FULLY FUNDED! Mr. L.'s classroom raised $551
This project is fully funded
My Students
Robert Frost was quoted as saying, "I am not a teacher, but an awakener." I try to awaken my students (all with special needs) to their tremendous inner potential. I want them to be excited about entering my classroom. It's dark and all sorts of visual and sound effects are going on. Soon they're in the band!
My students have been diagnosed with profound special needs, such as autism, Down Syndrome, cerebral palsy (CP), and medically-fragile conditions.
Many require wheelchairs for mobility and most are non-verbal. Parents and teachers often express frustration that these students seem to be "in their own world."
My school is a special needs center and part of the Broward Public Schools system. I run the hands-on, experiential music and drama program at my school. I've found that these students, despite their profound challenges and the difficulties they face 24/7, nonetheless, are more capable than we usually give them credit for.
I'm putting together a band made up of my students and they will indeed SHINE! (Special Helpers In Need Entertain!) at school assemblies and in the community at large. My students will play adaptive instruments, others using Sign Language to "sing," and others will run lighting effects and run PPT shows--many right from their wheelchairs.
My Project
My students need a variety of instruments, including bells, wrist bells, and percussion instruments. My students will use these instruments and other adaptive instruments along with various forms of assistive technology, to go from their usual role of being passive observers to becoming more active participants. Rather than simply listening to music, they will be involved in the exciting and motivational act of creating music.
They will utilize bells, percussion instruments, and play along to live music. Some will sing using adaptive switches and communication devices. Others will use American Sign Language to "sing" along to this live music. The performing band will be known as SHINE!, and they will entertain at school performances and at performances in the community, such as assisted living centers and other schools. During the practices, the students will learn when to come in, when to play their specific parts, when to begin the live music, and when to stop. They will not only learn basics such as cause and effect; but more importantly, they will learn many positive social skills.
These are students who truly need a break.
This project will help them in so many ways. First, they will gain in many important skills areas, such as academic, social, and being part of a team. But they will also become their own best advocates for positive change--as others will realize that given the opportunity, these kids can really succeed and make a difference--and give in meaningful ways to others. Being part of the band will also be a tremendous boost in their self-esteem.
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
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