Margaret J. Thornton Elementary School in White Plains, Maryland on DonorsChoose

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For many students, sitting still for long periods is a challenge, and traditional chairs can limit their ability to move and focus. The wobble chairs give students the freedom to release extra energy in a controlled way, which has led to increased attention during lessons and group discussions. I've noticed that students who once struggled to stay on task are now able to concentrate for longer periods of time because the chairs meet their need for movement without disrupting the class. It has been especially beneficial for students who thrive with kinesthetic learning.\r\n\r\nSeat cushions have also had a remarkable impact. These cushions give students options for where and how they sit, making the classroom feel more inviting and personalized. Some students prefer to sit on the carpet with a cushion during independent reading or writing, while others use them at desks for extra comfort. This flexibility has allowed students to choose seating that works best for their individual learning styles, leading to greater ownership of their work and confidence in their abilities. I have seen students eagerly grab a cushion before diving into their assignments, a small act that shows their enthusiasm and comfort in the classroom space.\r\n\r\nThe addition of seat sacks has also been a practical and meaningful improvement. These colorful, durable organizers hang neatly on the backs of chairs and give students a place to keep their books, supplies, and folders within reach. With everything organized and close by, transitions between subjects are smoother and less time is wasted. Students have taken responsibility for keeping their materials in order, which has supported independence and accountability. The seat sacks have also helped reduce classroom clutter, making the learning space calmer and more structured.\r\n\r\nClipboards may seem like a small item, but they have opened up new opportunities for learning beyond the desk. Whether working in small groups, participating in a gallery walk, or writing outside, students are now able to bring their learning with them wherever they go. The clipboards have encouraged movement and creativity while still keeping academic tasks at the center. Students love the freedom to choose a quiet spot in the classroom or even work on the rug while still having a sturdy surface for their work.\r\n\r\nOverall, the donated items from the Flexible Seating = Flexible Thinking project have fostered a classroom environment that values student choice, independence, and comfort. These resources have made learning more engaging and have shown my students that their classroom is a space designed with their needs in mind. 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About this school

Margaret J. Thornton Elementary School is a public school in White Plains, Maryland that is part of Charles County Public Schools. Its teachers have had one project funded on DonorsChoose.

Equity Focus School

Support towards this school will directly impact historically underfunded classrooms.

Public School

Grades Not specified

# of students unavailable

# of teachers unavailable

5860 St David Dr

White Plains, MD 20695 View local requests

Evidence-based impact

Inspire teachers to stay in the classroom and boost student achievement.¹

Give to this school

Ms. Vero, a DonorsChoose teacher for 9 years.

Kindergarten teacher at PS81 - Robert J. Christen School in Bronx, NY

Margaret J. Thornton Elementary School Teachers on DonorsChoose

Mrs. Taylor

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Margaret J. Thornton Elementary School Demographics

The percentage of students that qualify for free or reduced price lunch is not available.

Source: the National Center for Education Statistics

72%

of students are Black, Latino, Native American, or Asian

Schools in districts that mainly serve students of color receive substantially less state and local support than similar districts that serve primarily White students. Learn more about this gap, why it exists, and how you can help close it.

Margaret J. Thornton Elementary School Support on DonorsChoose Last updated Dec 5, 2025

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