On a typical day you will find 40+ students actively participating in a game of badminton during every PE class period. They challenge each other to tournaments, they encourage each other to improve, and they enjoy a lifetime fitness activity. But our nets are held together by hope and tape.
Facing challenges in life is the norm.
But for my students challenges often include hunger and lack of basic resources. My colleagues and I strive to overcome these challenges by building healthy confidence and empowering students to desire success through hard work.
The cultural diversity is only overshadowed by the diversity in life stories. Our students often overcome incredible challenges which can seem as simple as getting to school on time or as critical as helping the family to provide meals. It is often incredible that while facing so many challenges, they come to school with a desire to learn and achieve more. Last year we sponsored our very first college fair and the students could not have been more receptive. After realizing that college was an achievable dream, we had more students apply for and be accepted to college than ever before! Previous graduates are coming back to let students know that dreaming + doing = success. It is truly inspiring.
My Project
The number one request from students during PE class is to play badminton. Everyday. So much so that we have also instituted an after school badminton club in which any student can participate. When the club meets, we typically see a minimum of thirty students who regularly attend and play. There is a steady stream of other students who may not be able to attend every week but come whenever they can. We see all ability levels. Students are there to have fun, compete and spend some quality time in a safe place.
We currently use nets that have been pieced together by myself and my colleagues.
These nets include extra ropes and duct tape to hold things together. We do the best we can with the resources we have. By providing our students with brand new nets that will survive for many years to come, we can ensure that our students will be able to continue to grow their love of a lifetime activity.
Nearly all 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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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. Danault and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
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