I have been an elementary school teacher for over fourteen years and I can honestly say that The Walking Classroom is one of the best programs I have ever used. Typically, children sit at desks and concentrate for hours all day long. This program gives them the opportunity to not only learn and get exercise, but also to get fresh air and see the environment.
Our school population is very diverse; it is also in a low economic era. Many of our students do not get to experience such things as going on vacation, seeing a movie, or even, in some cases, going to the park.
Our classroom is an integrated co-teaching classroom setting, which means that some of the students in our class are students with disabilities. This program gives all types of learners an opportunity to learn.
I am constantly looking for innovative, engaging, and even fun ways to introduce and teach topics to my students. The Walking Classroom has given our students new opportunities and more avenues to learn new information.
We go outside and listen to podcasts on Wednesdays and Thursdays. On those days, students are so excited to leave their jackets on the back of their chairs in anticipation for the period they get out of the building. From the bottom of my heart, thank you!
Kerry Bottiglieri
4th Grade Teacher
P.S. 12 Queens
This is my second year using The Walking Classroom. Our school is also in a low economic area and experiences some of the same things as your students. The majority never so on vacations or even to the movies.
The students had seen my class walking last year, so they were eager to get started walking. We discuss the podcasts before our walks and when we return. They love The Walking Classroom. It has been raining a lot, so we’ve had to walk around on the patio. They’re still getting exercise and fresh air which is what matters most.
We love our Walking Classroom!!!
Congratulation Kerry,
I also teach at a very diverse low income Title One school ( I understand what you are saying). I am also thankful for the opportunity to be able to use TWC classroom to get students up an moving. It is a good opportunity to be able to teach in a way that does not require students to sit and be quiet; but to walk, listen, learn, focus, and then socialize by sharing what they have just learned 🙂 Best wishes!