Building Costumes: Skills for Theatre; Skills for Life
My students need sewing machines & stations so they can build costumes for our theatrical productions; building costumes will build character and confidence.
I teach Theatre Arts to 9th-12th grade students. Most of my classes are mixed grade and ability levels. It is not unusual to have students from the life-skills program in the same class with the senior valedictorian. It is so exciting to watch these students interact, support one another and learn so much more than content.
My students know that our classroom is a safe place where they can be themselves without fear of judgement.
They are creative, motivated, thoughtful and full of energy. They dare to be different and accept differences in others. I love my kids!
My Project
I am so grateful to live in a community that values the arts. My program has grown to include about 10% of our student population between our academic and after school programs, however our resources are limited. There are schools in our district that are over 70% free/reduced lunch, yet we are so lucky that our administration is forward thinking enough to realize the importance of the arts in our schools.
I know Theatre saves students; it saved me.
For some, that means having the opportunity to be on stage performing, while for others, it means being part of the artistic, creative process behind the scenes. Three years ago I started a Stage Craft class. The students in this class build sets and costumes. They learn how to produce and advertise for upcoming productions. They learn that their contribution is as important to the success of the show as the actors are; they realize their value.
I am asking for sewing machines as well as the resources to set up stations so that my students can learn to build costumes from patterns. Last year we began to explore this however, it was difficult with only one machine. I am lucky to have community members willing to volunteer their time and expertise so that the students can have more one-on-one attention as they begin to learn a new skill.
I work hard to show my students the joy of being a life-long-learner. Last year I studied under a skilled seamstress, and I am excited to incorporate this art form into my program in a more meaningful way. My goal is not only to build costumes, but also to build confidence and provide my students valuable life skills.
Studio Designs 13362 Eclipse Hobby Sewing Center in Black/White Black/White
• Amazon Business
$102.59
5
$512.95
SINGER | Heavy Duty 4423 Sewing Machine with 23 Built-In Stitches -12 Decorative Stitches, 60% Stronger Motor & Automatic Needle Threader, Perfect for Sewing all Types of Fabrics with Ease
• Amazon Business
$139.66
3
$418.98
Brother 1034D 3/4 Thread Serger with Differential Feed
• Amazon Business
$199.00
1
$199.00
SINGER | Medium/Large Dress Form DF251 has 13 Individual Adjustments, 39-47" Bust, 31-39” Waist, 41-49" Waist, 14-16" Neck/Back, Hem Marker and Pin Cushion, Blue
• Amazon Business
$99.99
1
$99.99
SINGER | Medium/Large Dress Form DF251 has 13 Individual Adjustments, 39-47" Bust, 31-39” Waist, 41-49" Waist, 14-16" Neck/Back, Hem Marker and Pin Cushion, Blue
• Amazon Business
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. Neal and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.
