MY PROJECT:
My art classroom is in an old science room, and frankly I think it's holding us back. There is an eyesore of a lab station, with no working sink, smack in the middle of my room. My students have been sitting at long wood tables that look like they belong in a cafeteria not an art classroom.

My students are bright, bold and creative! I would love to create an environment that fosters cooperative learning. Right now it doesn't- students cluster together at the large tables and don't tend to stay in the assigned seating arrangements. They would rather sit with their friends (like they are in the cafeteria at lunch) I don't think it's the best way to encourage freedom of expression and creative problem-solving skills. I've done all I can to brighten up the walls but several students have even remarked to me "it doesn't look like an art room "I'm hoping to brighten up the place and encourage students to mix it up!

I don't want bullying to be a problem or see students being left out. With the 4 new tables I am hoping to get supplied, the students will be able to sit in groups of 6. By having smaller tables it will be easier to keep them together in small groups. The tables and chairs will be color coordinated so there would be no question about where they belong and it would actually look and feel like an art classroom!

Because I teach over 500 students a week, I want them to come into the art room and find a warm, welcoming, nurturing environment that is conducive to cooperative learning experiences. Without your help I would never be able to do this! I was inspired by the "it gets better" campaign and really hope I can make it better for students who feel like they don't exactly fit in. Show Less