Our school is a very diverse Title 1 school with a phenomenal staff of teachers who love children. Our diversity is a strength for us. We have 29 different language groups represented and literally, children from all around the globe. We struggle against indomitable odds including poverty, homelessness and transient lifestyles. The Walking Classroom provides a way to “walk out” of some of that hopelessness. By allowing for a break away from “sit in your seat” learning, it allows students the chance to relieve their wiggles and escape classroom distractions.
Every podcast we listened to was a delight for us. The kids thought they were “so so cool” walking with their WalkKits swinging from their necks and their distinctive white ear buds in their ears. They ESPECIALLY loved it when we walked inside the building because of rain.
The character education components my students heard on the podcasts were being echoed by myself in the classroom. The podcasts I chose for us to listen to were relevant to our learning and relevant to their lives. The additional quizzes provided in the program helped me hold students accountable for their listening and provided jump off points for some very good discussions. The physical activity was always good too, as I insisted on a quick pace and kept my students moving.
Thank you for supporting children, teachers and education in general with this program. The benefits The Walking Classroom provides are immeasurable!
Julie Pirtle
Fourth Grade Teacher
Ronald McNair Elementary
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