October 2022 Grant Recipients

My students come from many different backgrounds, and few feel inspired by math. We hear, "I'm not good at math" or "I don't like math" or even "I'm not a math person." I want to help show students that anyone can learn math. I've been able to secure a variety of seating options for flex seating, but quality tables are harder to come by. Dry erase tables will encourage brainstorming and promote teamwork in groups. Dry erase also creates a sense of safety as it's easy to change when mistakes are made. The blocks will add a sensory element and allow the kids to have a more well-rounded STEM experience. Flip chart paper will help in student collaboration and also allow for easy sharing of thoughts with the group. We can even save these notes to display! Help me to change math class for my high schoolers!

Students will use a hands on approach combined with research to create a habitat for a chosen animal. Each student will choose an animal in which to build a 14 x 16 enclosure. Through research the students will learn how the animal they choose fits into the food chain and how it interacts with other animals. Once students build the enclosure, they must collaborate with each other to determine what animals can be in the same environment as those of their classmates, in order to design a zoo. Once the zoo has been designed it will be set up in the library where other grade level students will come to visit. My students will then give a presentation to the other grades on their animal. The funds would be used to purchase the required materials for building their zoo. Through this process students will learn how to write an expository essay, experience public speaking and learn about the food chain.

My students are a sweet group of first graders who love school and love to learn. We are asking for your help in allowing us to transform our classroom into a classy coffee shop! During our transformations we typically have math, reading, and STEM rotations that are challenging my students in a fun way. Classroom transformations create immersive experiences for our students that help engage and inspire them.When planning these transformations I like to identify which skills I want my lesson to cover to make sure we go over things they may be struggling with or to practice foundational skills that will help them in the future. Students remember these high-engagement lessons long after they leave the classroom.

If I can provide my students with as many of these opportunities as possible, I know that I can make learning fun and reignite a passion for learning. Similarly, 'active learning' encourage participation, thinking and analysis. Instead of listening passively, students gain information, apply concepts, discuss and problem solve. Increased engagement makes for more effective learning and higher levels of achievement. The outcome that I hope to achieve with this project is to deliver an educational experience that will allow students to absorb what they are learning and gain a love for learning.