Past projects 3
Magic Carpet Ride
Funded Nov 6, 2023The new carpet has completely transformed our classroom dynamics. Instead of traditional desks and chairs, we've created a cozy reading corner with bean bags and floor cushions on the carpet. This setup has encouraged more relaxed and collaborative learning environments. One specific project we've undertaken is a storytelling session where each student contributes a sentence to create a collective story. Sitting on the carpet has fostered a sense of togetherness and engagement among the students, making the storytelling experience more immersive and enjoyable for everyone.
The students were thrilled when they first saw the new carpet in the classroom. Their eyes widened with excitement, and there were gasps of delight as they realized the potential for comfortable learning spaces. Many of them immediately wanted to sit on the carpet and explore its softness. Some even started discussing ideas for how we could utilize the space more effectively. Overall, their reaction was overwhelmingly positive, and it's clear that the new addition has injected a sense of novelty and enthusiasm into our learning environment.
In our current lesson on creative writing, the next step for the students is to draft their own short stories inspired by the storytelling session we conducted on the carpet. Building upon the collaborative narrative they created together, each student will now have the opportunity to develop their own unique story. We'll be focusing on elements such as character development, setting description, and plot structure. Additionally, we plan to incorporate peer feedback sessions where students can share their drafts and provide constructive criticism. This will not only enhance their writing skills but also promote a supportive and collaborative classroom culture.”
With gratitude,
Dr. Wentz
This classroom project was brought to life by Nevada Department of Education.Meeting Carpet
Funded Oct 4, 2015Thanks to the wonderful donations made, my students now have a meeting carpet they utilize multiple times a day! Once of the biggest impacts I have seen in my classroom is how my student's teamwork has improved. They are able to put themselves into groups that allow everyone a partner at any given point when we are learning at the carpet. Students in my class now feel more accepted and are excited to learn with each other. This is because of our wonderful and amazing meeting carpet!
When my students first saw our new meeting carpet they were exceptionally excited! They came in from recess and saw our brand new meeting carpet. There was a mixture of responses, which included "Oh! That's so cute!" and "It's sooo soft!" and "Look at all the fuzzes on pants!" There were all so excited to sit on our new meeting carpet when the came in from recess. My kiddos had fun picking the circle they wanted to sit on and loved feeling the
I am so thankful to have a new meeting carpet in my classroom. I will be using it to help teach mathematical skills that third graders tend to struggle with. Fractions is a key skill that they must have a solid foundation for before entering 4th grade. We will also utilize the carpet to learn how to find area and perimeter. I cannot wait to see how much more learning with take place because of our new meeting carpet!”
With gratitude,
Dr. Wentz
This classroom project was brought to life by NEA Foundation and 3 other donors.Daily 5 & Cafe Hooray!
Funded Aug 25, 2014Thank you so much for your generous donations. Because of you, my students are becoming better readers and writers! They are more excited about learning than before. Their love for learning grows more and more as they continue to use these resources.
My students LOVE using the play-doh! My students are more successful on their spelling tests because they are more attentive to spelling patterns. They love using the stamps, magnetic letters, and play-doh to study spelling words and high frequency words. We are using the reading and literacy kits during small groups to increase comprehension in both areas. Because of this, my students are growing in there reading development.
With these tools I am able to engage my students in learning. We are all excited about their reading and literacy development. It is so great to see the growth my students are making with the various resources. You have made a difference in their learning! Thank you!”
With gratitude,
Dr. Wentz
This classroom project was brought to life by Gates Foundation Back To School and 7 other donors.