The Wildcat Way

Funded Aug 19, 2023

Thank you so much for your generous donation! All of the new materials have had a huge impact on my classroom and my students.

The new whiteboard and dry erase markers have made every day so much more efficient, and organized. Since I teach multiple subjects, I use different colors for each subject. In years past, this was always a struggle because I had limited space to write notes and instructions. With my new whiteboard, I am now able to use one area for my Seniors and the other area for my Freshmen. This makes things so much better because all of my students know where to look (and what color to look for) to get their daily instructions.

One thing I have really enjoyed post-Covid is getting my students moving around the room to complete assignments. The only struggle was that students often had to carry around their heavy textbooks to have a hard surface for writing. The clipboards we received have given every student a much more manageable surface for writing, and we have enough clipboards that students no longer have to share.

One thing I have always done is make sure I provide all of my students with the materials they need to be successful, so they don't feel obligated to buy their own. We take handwritten notes, and do most assignments on paper. The notebook paper and pencils we were given has helped students because they know I have them covered in the event that they are unprepared, or have no other way to obtain resources.

One thing my students have always enjoyed is doing assignments that allow them to showcase their creativity. The colored pencils have really made an impact, especially in my history classes. Students are no longer limited in their choice of colors based on what I can afford to supply. This has led to students being able to put their own personal style into their map assignments. Plus, they really enjoy coloring when they have a little free time.

I initially asked for a new chair and standing mat for myself, but those have also (unexpectedly) benefited my students. I have some students who prefer to stand than sit at a desk, so those students take turns standing on my mat and working at my podium. Even though I received a new desk chair, I kept my old one and students have been asking if they can sit in it while they work. The mat and the chair have become almost like a reward (and incentive) for students to do their best. Both give students a small "change of scenery" which is also very beneficial to their learning.

Thank you, again, for your generosity. All of the donations have helped alleviate some of the stress on me, as I am able to just worry more about teaching and less about being able to provide everything I know my students need to be successful. My students and I appreciate all of the help, and I hope you know how appreciative we all are.”

With gratitude,

Mr. McCrary