Past projects 4
Inclusive Learning Environment
Funded Jul 14, 2024I would like to thank you once again and show appreciation for your donation to my project, "Inclusive Learning Environment." I was set to start the year with no headphones. Students are expected to provide their own. This becomes an equity issue both in terms of being able to afford headphones and/or to get quality headphones. Almost all our educational computer programs require headphones.
Because our school is inclusive, I have many fifth graders who would benefit from noise canceling headphones. Sound of any kind is either disruptive to their thinking process or upsetting. What I found by providing all my noise canceling headphones is that ALL of my students have been using them throughout the day. This could be during work time or taking tests/quizzes. My students have verbally told me they appreciate having the option of noise canceling headphones. Some students told me they have never used them before, but find they help them focus better during class.
Having headphones and noise canceling headphones seems like a small thing, but it really is a big thing in helping students be successful in class. I like knowing it is a helpful tool and one that is equitable for all learners.
My fifth graders and I thank you!”
With gratitude,
Mrs. Edwards
Social Emotional Magic!
Funded Aug 4, 2023You donations to my Social Emotional Magic project made such an impact this year! Because of you, I was able to add to my differentiated seating, and start my collection of mindfulness resources. This year I had 30 students with many challenges and needs. Having more flexible seating options made such a difference with student focus and engagement. This is the first year I implemented mindfulness on a daily basis. My students typically come in from lunch recess very energized and often with drama from recess incidents. I found having a mindfulness activity when they came in to be very beneficial. It gave my students a change to reset, refocus, and mentally/physically calm down.
The students have come to love this quiet time. It makes the transition to learning more smooth. Students were ready to learn and focus with a more positive mindset. I just started doing this in the morning to start our day on Wellness Wednesdays. It provides routine for students who do not have that at home. Next year, my goal is to have a mindful moment first thing and after lunch.
Thank you so much for your donations! These purchased items made a challenging year, less challenging, and so much more positive for all of us!”
With gratitude,
Mrs. Edwards
This classroom project was brought to life by The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and 7 other donors.A Focused Learner is a Successful Learner!
Funded Aug 9, 2022My fifth graders have absolutely loved their flexible seating options! After teaching appropriate use and modeling when school started in September, my students were eager to try them out. I am able to observe the benefits since my classroom had limited alternatives previously. These seating choices motivate my students every day. They look forward to choosing. The neat thing about fifth graders is that they are at an age where THEY can see the benefits to anything that helps them learn better and stay focused. After a while, students were more selective about the seating they chose. Some students like to move around while seated, so they choose the wiggle ball or wiggle stool. Some liked to be in their seat but have movement with a tactile sensation. They chose wiggle seats. The device that lets them pedal under their desk is a popular choice. Having 5 other stools gave even more students an opportunity for flexible seating. I have been able to see how much more focused and engaged the students are who are using flexible seating. Instead of sitting in a static position, the student can move. I have seen more participation and an improved attitude. These students have more energy to take them through the day. These fifth graders love having choices that help them do their best and to be successful!!! Best of all, these provide equitable options for all students!”
With gratitude,
Mrs. Edwards
This classroom project was brought to life by Bill Gates and 7 other donors.Diversity Builds Community
Funded Sep 1, 2021What started as a small-scale diversity project has now become a district-recognized project. I started this diversity project as a way to meet the needs of my diverse classroom and school. I wanted students to feel accepted coming back from remote as well as accepting of others. I chose books that embraced diversity, empathy, accepting own's uniqueness, and accepting other's uniqueness.
The students were put into groups and assigned a book. They read the book together and discussed it. They took notes on the main idea, theme, and application to the classroom and school. Groups then created their poster following a template. Groups were given time to practice. Each student was required to share at least one page. The groups presented their poster and book to the class. I then extended this to the sharing of these books and their message to primary classes.
At this time, my principal notified the district about our class project. Next week, a district videographer is coming to our school to videotape two of the groups sharing in a kindergarten and third grade class. He will then interview several students and myself. This is very exciting!
The students had fun AND learned somethings about themselves and others.”
With gratitude,
Mrs. Edwards