Past projects 4
A Little Spot of Feeling Validation
Funded Oct 4, 2024Students who visit my office either for mandated counseling sessions or on an "as needed basis" like the Little Spot of Feelings books. They LOVE the feeling plushies, that have been renamed, "feeling muffins". In a picture, an older group of students imagined the feeling muffins had hands to share with everyone how they feel.
The inside cover of the book, "Emotion Detective" has a "How do you feel?" poster. Students check in with their feelings and add the reason why. In the picture, students drew more feelings that were not included in the poster.
The wording and illustrations in the books teach students and adults basic skills how to identify their feelings (even if you don't know) and how to express their feelings in a safe way.”
With gratitude,
Ms. Coleen, School Counselor
This classroom project was brought to life by SONIC Foundation and 2 other donors.I can help myself succeed!
Funded Sep 2, 2023When I ask my students what they need to feel and be successful in school and in life, the answers are often, " a reminder", "an explanation of a direction", "Show me what I have to do.", "Ask me questions.", "Let me tell you what's hard for me to do.", "I want to share with you what I can do." When students get "stuck" in a problem, it's important for them learn how to navigate the problem and find a solution...either by themselves or with some help from another peer or adult. Creating visual reminders or positive behavior motivating checklists using a color printer provides students the ability to advocate for themselves in a fun way.
Once students either attempt or meet their behavior goals, they are awarded a certificate to recognize their positive behavior achievement. As our parents are partners, they too are recognized and provided an award. Praise and encouragement all around is well-meaning.”
With gratitude,
Ms. Coleen, School Counselor
Stress! Positive Ways to Express!
Funded Aug 3, 2023When I asked my students in the beginning of this year what they needed to express their stress or anger or frustration or whatever they are feeling, often the answers were..."wall pushups, fidgets, reminders to breath, something to push/hit". I appreciated the ability of my students to advocate for themselves and each other. The resources received continue to meet their needs and bring a smile and laugh to the students as well as the adults (who also use the tools).
My students and I placed the "calm breathing" visuals (triangle and lazy eight), wall pushups for small and tall friends, and the rainbow wall walk outside the cafeteria for friends who need a reset or quiet space. Although we were not able to place anything on the floor (custodial issue), our students adapted and used the wall space. Learning to be flexible is crucial in our community. My students also chose various areas on our three levels to place calming areas so everyone, even visitors, have a chance to de-stress.”
With gratitude,
Ms. Coleen, School Counselor
This classroom project was brought to life by The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and 2 other donors.Inspire + Self-Esteem
Funded Dec 15, 2022Thank you for your generosity in purchasing positive posters and signs for our PS 75 community. It could not have come at a better time as we have had an influx of new members. When families, students, and visitors walk around the outside of our building and enter our school, they first see these colorful and inspirational signs in English and Spanish. As many members have shared, they feel "welcomed".
I, along with my students, often point out the signs, which they placed around the school, and begin conversations about what it means, to them, and others, to be a team member, a leader, be nice, respectful, honest, cooperative, etc.
The posters and signs are consistent reminders and inspiration for all to make more positive choices. I witnessed one example of this when older students read the signs to younger students. My hope is for our students to feel an increase in positive self-esteem.”
With gratitude,
Ms. Coleen, School Counselor
This classroom project was brought to life by an Anonymous Classroom Supporter and 10 other donors.