In our room, I don't teach students- I teach superheroes! My students are learning that there is a superhero inside each of them, ready to conquer anything through perseverance, kindness, and curiosity. They come to school excited to embrace new challenges and determined to have a positive, growth mindset through it all. They are ready to take on the world!
Many of my students share a passion for inquiry and experimentation.
They willfully try something new because of the safe space in our classroom. Our classroom is many of our students' stable, safe environment away from home. In some cases, it is a student's only stable and safe environment. We truly become a supportive community for each other. Their excitement for learning reminds me of why I went into teaching in the first place.
My Project
Our classroom is a safe space for my students. However, after seven hours together every day, many of my students are clearly irritated by the harsh fluorescent lights overhead. Our classroom only has one little window with blinds that cannot be opened for safety reasons. Therefore, the only light in the room comes from the eighteen- yes, eighteen- intensely bright fluorescent lights.
Our room needs fluorescent light covers to mask and mellow out the bright lights overhead.
Many studies have shown that fluorescent lights can cause hyperactivity, fatigue, anxiety, headaches, and irritability. Additionally, some of my students suffer from behavior and learning disorders and would greatly benefit from having a more calm, soothing environment that would come from having blue filters. The color blue alone promotes a calmer demeanor. That's why my classroom is decorated with blues and a subtle hint of yellow for brightness. The bright lights take away from the environment I am trying to create for my students: one of comfort and safety for learning. Having the light filters would greatly support my students' learning every day, all year long.
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. Neve and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
