My students need the oversized basketball, regular basketballs, and glasses to work on fundamental skills, while the step boxes will work on their leg strength/endurance.
$556 goal
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As a child, did you yearn for a better life not only for yourself but for your family? My students do. You can help them achieve their dreams!
I am a physical education coach at a 6th, 7th, and 8th grade junior high school in Louisiana.
Our 675 students use outdated or worn-out equipment to participate in physical education classes. The influx of students from hurricane-ravaged areas of the state continue to strain our parish budgets as newer schools are built. However, not enough money is available to maintain existing schools beyond basic maintenance and the state-mandated academic programs. This lack of resources has a negative effect on most of our students.
I see firsthand the effects of poverty upon school success. Our kids from single-parent or low-income homes often struggle with discouragement at school and loneliness at home as many parents are forced to work afternoons & evenings. Some homes lack the resources for basic shelter, utilities, and food. Family stress levels are seen as apathy, depression, and acting-out behaviors at school. Participation in high-energy sports can ease these problems.
My Project
Our school is a 2nd family for most of these kids. We provide both the academic atmosphere necessary for educating our future workforce and a social community for developing character and good citizenship. A strong sports program provides an opportunity for students to attain the positive recognition they crave.
Participation in a sport also improves academic and social skills as students become valued members of the school community. Cooperation and teamwork--necessary for real-world workplace--are taught and strengthened in our sports programs. An attitude of "belonging to a team" combats the negative peer influences in our poorer neighborhoods as well as bringing students from different backgrounds to a "team" mentality.
The equipment that I am requesting will develop basketball skills that are not usually learned on the street or in the backyard. With the right equipment, I can encourage participation and develop skills necessary to compete at a high school or college level.
By helping me develop these adolescents' skills in a sport, you will have a direct influence upon building character in many students who do not have the "practice makes perfect" mentality with which many of us grew up.
Students want success. They crave structure and recognition. With the supplies that I have requested and your help, I can provide both.
More than half of students from low‑income households
Data about students' economic need comes from the National Center for Education Statistics, via our partners at MDR Education. Learn more
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As a teacher-founded nonprofit, we're trusted by thousands of teachers and supporters across the country. This classroom request for funding was created by Mr. Ray and reviewed by the DonorsChoose team.