I ordered many social emotional, character building, self confidence, friendships and problem solving books to help our young learners see them selves as well as learn about problems, exciting moments, sadness, working together or anything they might see at home or in the world around them. I have them displayed as my leaners come in the classroom. We have a new friend in our classroom and she was a bit nervous about this new school, new teacher and new friends, BUT she saw the book I am Enough, and her eyes got big and she looked at me and said "You have that book, its my favorite cause it's about me" It was in this moment that she new she was seen and mattered, she was a part of OUR class.
With this grant I also received funds for many different learning options around the room. I have been introducing each option slowly so we all know how to use the options, how to be responsible and respectful and how to put them where we want them. This is a first grade classroom in September, practicing is a must. One of our exceptions is to be able to increase our stamina in reading. In order to do that we need to be engaged, focused, and have many opportunities to practice. I believe that reading is NOT something everyone enjoys as many times it is forced and made to be a punishment rather than a fun experience that allows children to learn about numerous different things. Que the learning options this grant helped me provide to my young learners. We were able to purchase some comfy chairs, donuts and wobble chairs. We have been practicing how to use these during our reading time and this is the first year in 14 years that I have seen my very young and very new first graders run and ask when we get to "read again and use those chairs" A comfortable and welcoming environment has been created by the funds from the initiative foundation.
Kari Wiersgalla
First Grade Teacher
Royalton Elementary School