My Students

"Being ADD, when I read a book about marine life, my mind allows me to travel with the fish and imagine life beneath the sea...I may not immediately comprehend that 3+4=7, but I may fully realize that n+26=51 and that the missing number is 25." ~Matthew Kutz, age 13

I am a first-year teacher (and former Marine!) with a class of 17 second-grade student at a diverse school in a high-poverty area of Central Florida.

My school includes many unique student populations, including students with exceptionalities and a high percentage of English Language Learners. My students are eager, enthusiastic, and love to learn! Several of my students have been diagnosed with ADHD or ADD. They are creative, innovative, and think outside the box. Their energy and ideas bring new perspectives to our classroom. However, focus and sensory processing issues present unique challenges for many of these students.

My Project

Sensory chair cushions will help my students improve concentration while also allowing them the freedom of movement. Students will be able to focus longer on important tasks, which will greatly improve their learning experiences. Tactile cushions will be used in a variety of settings, including whole-class, small group, and individual instruction. Interactive cube timers will allow my students to become more self-monitoring. The timers allow children to set limits, help them to stay on-task, and give them the opportunity to create goals and challenges.

Donations to this project will greatly impact my students' lives in a positive way!

Providing children with much-needed resources will help them manage ADD, ADHD, and sensory processing disorders.