I teach at a rural school in Alabama with low-socioeconomic status. My school is currently involved in a pilot program designed to keep our students interested in school in order to increase the graduation rate of our "at-risk" students.
Students need a niche within the school community. The sports teams and school clubs that currently exist are helpful in providing students with a way to stay involved, but something is lacking. Students are diverse and so are their interests. Our school recognizes that fact and has developed a plan of action to ensure that all students feel a sense of belonging within our walls and on our campus.
Our goal is to provide time during the school day for students to be involved in classes that showcase their unique interests and abilities. By giving these students a reason to enjoy school, we are also increasing the likelihood that they will complete high school. This year, our school was notified that the state approved our plan. Our school is the only school in the state of Alabama allowed to provide a modified schedule allowing for a block of time reserved for “special interest” classes.
During the new modified block of time, students will be able to take classes ranging anywhere from "art" and "music" to "outdoor adventures." I will be teaching an "indoor activities" class. Activities will range from strategy board games and darts to cooperative team play in table tennis... that is, with your help. My students will need one billiards/air hockey combo table. This will allow students to participate in activities while establishing a niche for them be involved in the school culture.
I know what you may be thinking... "Why donate money to this proposal so kids can play a game?" Let me tell you why... We have already kept one senior from dropping out of school because he found out we were about to add a "chess class". Our attendance rate has also increased since the implementation of these classes. Who is to say that we can't keep more students in school with other activities like those presented in this proposal? Big things are happening in our school. Please be a part of it.
More than half of 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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