GOOSE CREEK, S.C. (WCSC) - A Lowcountry teacher is looking to transform her Kindergarten classroom to create an even more engaging learning environment for her students.
Lisa Bracken, a Kindergarten teacher at Mevers School of Excellence, returned to the school after a few years away.
"I love Principal (Kenneth) Coles. To be honest with you, when I was here the first time, he was an assistant principal and I told him I said, 'If you ever become a principal, I'm coming back,' and here I am!" Bracken said. "Coles suggested kindergarten to me and I was like, 'Hmm, OK!' It sounded like a lot of fun to me."
Bracken is now pouring her heart into teaching kindergarteners, emphasizing how much her students mean to her.
"They are really important to me," Bracken said. "What makes them so special is that they're my first group of kindergartners ever."
To further enhance their learning, Bracken is focused on creating a dedicated small group area with flexible seating. She says this new setup will allow students to discuss lessons in a more comfortable and focused environment.
"During small group time, it's really hard to get them focused and when they're in flexible seating, it gives them time to bounce or move around," Bracken said.
Beyond academics, Bracken is also looking to provide her students with fun snacks, recognizing that some students may not always have access to them.
"The snacks are really important because a lot of parents can't afford the snacks. Sometimes it's hard for me to bring in the snacks. So, they're not looking over going, 'Why does she get this? Why does he get that?' But they all have the same thing, and they all get a snack, and the parents don't have to worry about it," Bracken said.
Click here to become a Live 5 Classroom Champion by donating to help fund this project.
Donors Choose collects the money, purchases the items the teacher has requested, and sends them directly to the teacher. That way, you know that your donation is used appropriately, and all donations are tax-deductible.
If you are a teacher who would like to be featured on Classroom Champions, please email us at [email protected].