Teacher: Stacy Dalton

School: Columbine Elementary School

Website: wpsdk12.org

Address: 175 E Kelley's Rd, Woodland Park, CO 80863

Grade Level: K-6 (Special Education)

Region: Central Mountains

Project Title: Empowering Special Education

Category: Supporting Special Populations (English Language Learners, Special Needs Students, Gifted Education)

Funding Amount Requested: $2,000

Project Description:
We are seeking $2,000 to enhance our special education program at Columbine Elementary in Woodland Park, where we serve a diverse student body, including many with learning differences and disabilities. Our district has been through significant changes and challenges over the last few years, and our students need extra support. Our goal is to purchase adaptive learning tools and resources that cater to the unique needs of our students, helping them build critical skills in a supportive environment. These resources will provide personalized, hands-on learning experiences, boosting confidence and engagement in the classroom. Funding this project will empower our special education students, giving them the tools they need to thrive academically and reach their full potential.

Impact:
This project will directly impact our students by creating a more accessible, supportive, and inclusive classroom environment. Sensory tools and academic resources will help improve focus, reduce anxiety, and make learning more engaging and hands-on. By integrating these tools, we aim to boost student confidence and help them develop important academic and emotional skills that will set them up for future success. Our goal is to see measurable improvements in student engagement, academic performance, and emotional regulation, fostering a classroom where every student can thrive.

Use of Funds:
We are requesting $2,000 to enhance our special education classroom with the following resources:

• Literacy Learning and Curriculum Resources - $400: Leveled readers, phonics games, reading strips, and writing aids to support literacy development.
• Math Intervention Curriculum and Manipulatives - $450: Numberlines, math games, manipulatives, and targeted resources for hands-on learning.
• Sensory and Emotional Regulation Items - $600: Sensory tools, fidget toys, noise-canceling headphones, and sensory mats to help students self-regulate.
• Timers, Organizers, and Independence Tools - $350: Visual timers, task boards, and organizers to encourage independence and time management.
• General Supplies - $200: Pencils, notebooks, dry-erase markers, and other classroom essentials.

These resources have been carefully chosen to address the needs of our students, providing both academic and emotional support that will make a meaningful difference in their education.