My school district is one of the most diverse in the state of Missouri. We provide rigorous academics, dedicated teachers, and a safe learning environment for students of many different backgrounds, cultures, and socioeconomic levels. Here, I am blessed to work with 100 young scientists-in-training.
I teach in a Title I school where nearly all of my students receive free or reduced-price lunch and need additional resources to be successful.
Because of this, I incorporate a variety of learning strategies, group work, small-group learning, and alternative seating options to ensure that each student's needs are met, right where they are.
Many of my students experience trauma; some experience homelessness. Some of my teenagers have experienced more in their 13 years on Earth than most of us will during our lifetimes. Despite these trials, my students come to school each day ready to learn and start fresh. School is their safe haven. I strive to provide a safe, comfortable, homey learning environment for all my students, regardless of need or ability. By doing so, I hope to inspire the students to come to school each day and make their day in science class the “best day ever"!
My Project
My students are working hard towards becoming scientists in training. We are fortunate enough to currently have 14 classroom Chromebooks. However, with class sizes in the mid-20s, we could certainly use more technology to enhance our STEAM-based classroom.
As a science teacher, I see all students with all sorts of individualized needs, from ADHD to Autism and everything in between, without additional professional classroom support.
By bringing in four more Chromebooks, I will be able to accommodate the needs of more of my learners. These devices will allow students who learn at different levels to work at their own pace, without having to rush to meet the standards of their group members. Furthermore, when sharing devices, it makes it difficult to individualize learning experiences for my students.
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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 Ms. Kowalczyk and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
