Imagine never using technology outside of school. What would that be like? This is reality for my 9th-12th grade students. When learning, my students are fascinated when watching documentaries on Discovery Education, using the Internet for research, and even being able to type an assignment on Microsoft Word.
My students are part of a restricted 12:1:1 setting due to their severe social/emotional disabilities and academic delays.
All of my students live in Brooklyn, NY with low income families, in shelters, or with foster families. My students' home lives are extremely difficult; they display very little trust toward their peers and adults. The abuse and neglect that these children have faced in their lifetime is something no child, or human being, should be exposed to. These teens come to school because it is where they feel "at home." Our school is a warm environment that welcomes all students, regardless of disability.
My Project
My class was fortunate enough to have been given a brand new SMART Board. Unfortunately, our school does not have the funding to provide my class with a working computer to connect to the interactive board. My curriculum includes lots of PowerPoint and interactive lessons (some lessons are even through fun interactive games!!), which we are unable to access on the SMART Board without a working laptop. Having a MacBook with Apple TV will benefit my students in completing assignments and give them higher motivation to stay engaged in learning while aiding their opportunity to succeed. Being able to mirror educational videos through Apple TV onto the SMART Board would benefit my students by keeping them highly motivated and engaged. My students' success at the high school level is imperative, especially for those who plan on furthering their education and obtaining jobs.
Donations toward this project will improve my classroom because this project will change the way my students feel about participating and completing assignments.
A lot of times, my students are frustrated and insecure about their ability to complete tasks. Having a new, working computer in my classroom will change my students' lives for the better because it will enhance their learning through a positive, engaging, and interactive learning experience.
More than three‑quarters 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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