Past projects 2
Flexible Seating for Flexible Learning
Funded Aug 30, 2019For the past ten years I have had a very traditional classroom. My students were given assigned seats and sat in traditional desks and chairs. I started noticing that my students were having trouble sitting still and needed frequent movement breaks. I knew that I needed to make a change and try flexible seating. Flexible seating allows students to take ownership in their learning while being independent and having the ability to move around responsibly. Without Donor's Choose I would not have been able to afford this amazing environment for my students!
Let me tell you how we are using these resources! Every morning students enter the room and choose the best seat for them. They cannot hide their excitement! They were excited when they first saw this new learning environment and I continue to see this excitement every day! Students have the option to choose between wobble stools, exercise balls, floor cushions, floor chairs, lap desks or a traditional desk and chair. Students rush to line up every morning so they can be the first to choose a seat. Throughout the day students often switch seats to meet their academic or behavioral needs. Students that were having difficulty sitting still and focusing are now flourishing as learners! I constantly see my students thrive with this student choice and it is inspiring to see them monitor their own needs. These tools not only drive student learning but it enhances instruction. Children learn best when they are in an environment that is comfortable and inspiring and this shows each day in my classroom!
My hope was for my students to come to school every day excited and eager to learn in a unique learning environment. Your generosity and support allowed this to happen! We are forever grateful to you!”
With gratitude,
Mrs. Mehlman
Help Us Get Off Our Feet And Take A Seat!
Funded Sep 26, 2012Thank you so much for choosing this project to fund. I cannot put into words how appreciative I am for having these heavenly pillows in my classroom. By donating to my project you were able to help my students learn in a more comfortable and less stressful environment. I am grateful and so are all 26 students in my class!
We have been able to use these pillows in so many different ways! If I am teaching a whole class lesson using the SmartBoard I always encourage students to take a pillow for comfort. Additionally, when I pull a small group and work on the rug we use the pillows every time. My students appreciate these pillows and look forward to instruction even more knowing that they get to use them!
Often times when students are reading independently they will simply grab a pillow and find a comfortable and inviting reading spot. They do this many times in writing and math as well. I truly believe that these pillows act as a temporary learning space for my students. They can pick up a pillow and find a less distracting space in the classroom. It is wonderful to watch my students realize that a smart learning seat will help them succeed. It is remarkable watching them become more independent and understand their jobs as students.
Students are expected to succeed academically across all subjects. What many people fail to recognize is WHAT we can do to help them achieve these goals. Through this project I learned that comfort and independence is step one! Thanks again.”
With gratitude,
Mrs. Mehlman