The students of the 21st century have been born into a world of technology. They use it every day. They crave it. Sometimes they get home at night and can't remember exactly what the teacher did in class. Even worse, sometimes they can't read their own notes.
I'm lucky to be part of a school with an active PTSA, supportive parents, and kids who genuinely like learning.
In the past, there were many PTSA teacher grants available, and a budget that sustained my department each school year. I noticed a substantial change after the economic decline in 2008; and unfortunately, the PTSA fund-raisers have not been as successful as in the past. The last two years have been dedicated to making upgrades to the building itself, cutting teacher grants. My students are phenomenal! Last year, I taught 6th grade, moving to 7th grade over the summer, looping with my kids. My students are bright, but there are many gaps in what they know and what the new Common Core Standards expect them to know. My honors kids will be exposed to more 8th grade standards than 7th. I also teach one eighth grade pre-algebra class of low achieving students. They need lots of extra help with basic skills, and I need to change up my teaching style often to keep them engaged.
My Project
If I had an iPad with a protective case and an adapter to project through my LCD, I will be able to create tutorials based on the lessons taught in class and link them to our school's online grading and family communication program. I'm spending many hours searching the Internet for video support for my kids to use while working on independent practice at home. Why not send them home with exactly WHAT we did in class that day? With the purchase of the iPad, I will use an amazing app called SHOW ME. I will be able to create tutorials right in class and attach these videos to my online grading and communication program. Additionally, absent students will never miss another lesson. From the comfort of their home, they can dive right in and never be behind. Our budget was slashed in half this year and what funds we have are tied up with the purchasing of new books and classroom supplies for the new Common Core standards. Help me create a 21st century, tech-savvy classroom.
As soon as I can secure the funding, I will use these resources daily to become a more effective educator by coaching them at home while working on homework and studying for tests.
I hope the kids will jump on board with their own technology by creating their own videos to share with their classmates. Middle school is a tough age group to teach, but I believe making use of all the right technology might just be the key to an engaging classroom where everyone finds success.
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. Dillon and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.