Past projects 4
We Want to Be the Steam Team!
Funded Nov 17, 2022My class loves technology and are innovative students. They have been experimenting with robots with our STEM teacher, but they only meet once a week, and sometimes the STEM teacher has other plans besides robotics. Every Friday, we have math morning games, but since my students are performing at much higher levels, it is sometimes too easy for them. So, I have made some select Fridays into STEM mornings where they can explore Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math concepts.
Students yelled with excitement when they saw all the different materials you donated. They were especially excited about the Botleys and Botley activity sets. Since I have a large class this year, kids needed to use their soft skills to share and delegate responsibilities. They all took on their roles and also traded roles while exploring with the robots.
Every student could choose which group they were in. Legos and Magnatiles were also a big hit! These materials allowed kids to play, while also practicing STEM concepts and Social Emotional Learning skills.
Sometimes kids are expected to act like adults when all they want to do is relax and play. These materials helped bring some fun back into my classroom. Thank you so very much!”
With gratitude,
Ms. Raza
This classroom project was brought to life by The Walt Disney Company and one other donor.Returning From Remote!
Funded Apr 28, 2021As we returned from remote learning, my students were thrilled to learn in the classroom again with their peers. They entered a room full of brand new learning materials, thanks to your generous donation. Math was a subject that especially was tricky for my students to grasp while learning at home because there were many materials that we use in the classroom that they didn't have access to at home.
One of the biggest skills we instill in our students when it comes to math is envisioning addition and multiplication on a number line. The erasable number line set has been extremely helpful to my students struggling to conceptualize consecutive number order. Another material which has been amazing has been the regrouping chart and number of the day chart. It is the highlight of their morning routine to explore the number of the day and the many ways we can show that number.
At home, it was tricky for students to manage their time, so the big classroom timer helps my students stay on track to finish their work on time. The model magic has also been something my students absolutely love. We have been using the model magic to create 3-D models of continents as we study geography in Science and Social Studies. Providing hands-on experiences is so meaningful for children to learn.
We truly appreciate your generosity and kindness!”
With gratitude,
Ms. Raza
Mission Classroom Makeover!
Funded Dec 2, 2019"You've got mail!" I said to my students as they entered the room and they saw their brand new colorful 5-shelf drawers, which would now become their mailboxes. We send a lot of important papers home on a daily basis, so having personalized mailboxes has really helped my class make sure they always get the necessary communication documents in a timely, organized manner. Students will leave nice notes of kindness in them as well, which has improved classroom rapport.
During STEM week at school, we read the 3 books from "The Questioneers" series about young students who are interested in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. These books about diverse students help provide windows and mirrors for my students. They help my students see main characters similar and different from each other accomplishing goals, setting a good example for them.
My students ESPECIALLY love the headphones! Now when we use the IPAD cart once a week, we are able to listen to audiobooks in a quiet room without disturbing our peers. I am very grateful for the brand new printer. This addition to my classroom has helped me greatly. Now I am able to print colorful images quickly that help enhance my teaching. I also print pictures of things we do in the classroom for decoration.”
With gratitude,
Ms. Raza
Help Make Over Our Library with a Little Rainbow Magic!
Funded Apr 10, 2019With your support, I was able to update my classroom library, math center, leadership center, small group table, and instructional goal board! These new additions to the classroom will make a lasting impact on our daily school lives.
Every day starts with me explaining the instructional goals of the day for each subject. With the "Magnetic Write and Wipe Organization Charts", I am able to write our aims for each subject. For example "Mathematicians will learn to add and subtract within 20 using ten frames.". Students can easily glance at the colorful magnetic dry erase displays for the teaching point of each lesson. When I first put them up, students were so curious and excited! They would always ask me "What are we learning about today?" so now they can be proactive and check the board to get a sneak peak into the daily lessons.
Then, during reader's workshop, students will take some time to book shop in the classroom library. My library now has new, colorful, and sturdy bins to bring some "rainbow magic" to our reading area. Students are excited to browse through the collection in the new bins.
For math, students can easily access math learning tools that are stored in the Classic Birch shelves. The 2-shelf binder is where students store their leadership binders. It has an excellent display so everyone can find their binder easily and highlight their work.
I also absolutely love the colorful stools that now belong to my small group table. My table has space for about 4 students, but our big bulky chairs only fit 3. With the new stools that easily slide under the table, I can see more students at a time and increase my teacher practice.
My students and I are so grateful for your contribution and thank you for your generosity! We appreciate your support.”
With gratitude,
Ms. Raza