Teacher: Kara Manns

School: Cedaredge Middle School

Website: www.deltaschools.com

Address: 845 SE Deer Creek Drive, Cedaredge, CO 81413

Grade Level: 6th-8th Grades Visual Arts

Region: Southwest

Project Title: Think Outside the Walls!

Category: Field Trips & Outdoor Learning

Funding Amount Requested: $1980

Project Description:
I am requesting funding for a "go-wagon" equipped with a class set of outdoor chairs and clipboards to help teachers conduct classes outside easily and successfully. Our school is located in rural western Colorado at the base of the beautiful and expansive Grand Mesa. While we have established trails and parks nearby, we rarely conduct classes outdoors beyond recess and P.E. With the right tools, holding any class outdoors could be simple and meaningful. We serve 189 students in grades 6-8, with 49% qualifying for free or reduced lunch. This initiative would benefit the entire school, encouraging students to move and learn amidst the scenic beauty of our surroundings.

Photos:
Photo 1
Photo 2

Impact:
Attending the "Teaching Students Outdoors Workshop with Good Natured Learning" last spring inspired me to make outdoor learning more accessible at our school. Outdoor learning has proven social and emotional benefits, including increased physical and mental wellness, improved student behaviors, more equitable learning, and fostering environmental stewardship. By providing teachers with a "go-wagon," complete with outdoor chairs and clipboards, we can easily move classes outdoors, encouraging students to engage in embodied, real-world learning experiences. This initiative would model effective outdoor education and support a shift toward less screen time and more hands-on experiences, improving our school's culture and student well-being.

Use of Funds:
The total cost for the "go-wagon" is approximately $1980.
- All-terrain wagon: $109.00
- 28 Crazy Creek chairs: $1740.00
- Class set of clipboards: $130.00
Any remaining funds will be used to purchase a whiteboard that can fit in the wagon.