One of my favorite things about The Walking Classroom is the way it gives ALL kids a chance at success. It is especially great for struggling students that can’t always stay focused in class or those that traditionally don’t do as well in typical classroom settings.
One student in particular from last year stands out. He wasn’t in our classroom during regular instruction because he was so far behind grade level. He was also physically weak due to health issues. When talking to his mother, we decided it would be good for him to join the class for our walks. The first walk was difficult for him physically, but he stuck with it and improved over time.
The biggest take-away, though, was that he eagerly shared in our post-walk discussions and had success answering questions about the walks. Before that, he would typically just sit and listen, but not participate, even in small group activities. The Walking Classroom gave him a level playing field, though, where he could feel success. He’s one of the many reasons I love The Walking Classroom and I can’t imagine my classroom without it any more.
Kari Lawson
Fourth Grade Teacher
Westwood Elementary
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