Grade: 9th Grade
Teacher Names: Kara Lindquist (Special Education Department Head & Transition Pathways Teacher) & Wendy Flaherty (Physical Education Teacher for Adaptive PE course)
Description and purpose of grant
Objective:
We are seeking funding to purchase adaptive physical education equipment and fitness activities tailored to our students' alternate curricula in core academic classes. This initiative aims to ensure that all learners have equitable access to physical education at a level suited to their individual needs.
Alignment with District Core Values:
Engagement:
Providing adaptive equipment and activities will enhance student engagement by making physical education more accessible and enjoyable for all learners. Customized equipment will allow students to actively participate and stay motivated, thus increasing their overall engagement in physical education.
Great Teaching:
By equipping our program with the necessary tools, teachers can implement more effective and inclusive teaching strategies. Adaptive equipment supports differentiated instruction and enables educators to address the diverse needs of students, fostering an environment where great teaching thrives.
Relationships:
Our adaptive PE course section fosters connections between special education learners and general education peer partners. Accessible and appropriate equipment will strengthen these relationships by allowing all students to work and play together on a more equal footing, enhancing social interaction and mutual support.
Redefining Success:
Success in physical education isn’t solely measured by traditional metrics but by personal and academic growth. Adaptive equipment will help redefine success for our students by focusing on individual progress and participation, rather than just competitive achievement.
Impact:
By investing in adaptive physical education equipment, we are not only supporting the physical development of our students but also fostering a more inclusive and engaging educational environment.
Implementation process: The adaptive physical education equipment purchased through this grant will be integrated into our existing adaptive PE units. This initiative will directly benefit 6 students with moderate to severe disabilities and 12 general education peer partners this current school year. Each year we have a range from 6-12 students with disabilties and 12-20 general education peer partners. The class meets every other day for 90 minutes, ensuring regular and sustained use of the new equipment. Additionally, the equipment will support students' participation in Special Olympic events, such as bowling and bocce, and will continue to serve future students in the coming years. Adaptive PE units will be adjusted to incorporate the new equipment and activities. Lesson plans will be revised to ensure that the equipment is used effectively and aligns with both physical education goals and the students’ individual needs. The equipment will be available for all incoming 9th graders who require adaptive physical education, ensuring that future students benefit from this investment. We will evaluate the impact of the equipment on student participation, engagement, and progress. This will involve measures, such as student feedback, teacher observations, and academic growth.
Items you plan to purchase with grant money:
Vendor: Gopher Sport
*Shipping estimate: ~$865
In the event my grant is not fully funded, this is minimum amount I would need to get started on this project: We would be incredibly grateful for any amount awarded to us to kickstart this important project. Thank you for considering our proposal. We are excited about the opportunity to enhance our program and make a positive impact on our students' lives, and we look forward to your support in making this vision a reality.