I live to teach (and to read, truth be told). One of my greatest joys in life comes from watching student after student find a love of books during their time in my class. This happens every single year; actually, it happens every single day. Students arrive at my school, seeking a second chance for turning their lives around and getting back on track for graduation. Give me a year with them, and I watch them transform from shy, reluctant learners to forces of power to be reckoned with and students who are no longer sitting by, passively waiting for life to happen. Rather, they begin creating their bright futures right in my classroom.
Past struggles with substance abuse, teen pregnancy, homelessness, extreme poverty, gang involvement, or severe social anxiety slowly become a mere shadow of who they are, empowering them to consider, instead, who they want to be, who they can be.
My Project
Earlier this week, I found myself having to sit through a class for over 3 hours straight. It was painful. It was uncomfortable. And, worst of all for 3 hours straight, one of my overriding thoughts was I want out of here NOW. It plopped me into my students' position, where in traditional schools, they move from class to class, so they can sit and sit and sit, staring at the hands on the clock, anxiously awaiting the blare of the bell to release them from and to yet another "sit session."
Engagement increases, energy levels rise, focus sharpens, and overall satisfaction skyrockets when classrooms are comfortable places to learn, and with your help, we will continue to build a better learning space for my students this year and for many years to come.
I am seeking support to purchase another standing desk that will allow student to work, either sitting or standing. This desk even comes with a foot rocker, so while they're sitting to read or write, they can still "fidget." As a teacher I'm on my feet all day, and this keeps me energized and always "in the moment." I want the same for my students. Thank you in advance for helping tranform my classroom. I'm 16 years into my career and things are still going strong, thanks to you. My students are rockstars, and you are a part of the magic.
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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. C. and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.