The grant will fund ipad "pens" for each of our 3rd graders. Students will use the rechargeable pencils to complete graphic organizers, annotate text and practice cursive as well as varied tasks across the curriculum.

In our 3rd grade classroom, students are increasingly engaging with digital texts and interactive reading materials. While our iPads provide access to a variety of literacy tools, the lack of stylus pens limits students’ ability to fully interact with the text in a precise and meaningful way. Without a stylus, tasks such as highlighting key details, annotating passages, or drawing graphic organizers require using a finger, which is less accurate and can be frustrating for young learners. Research shows that active text engagement improves comprehension and retention. For struggling readers, these strategies are essential for scaffolding understanding. Currently, students are unable to efficiently use these strategies in our digital platforms, which impacts their ability to meet grade level reading standards. Providing stylus pens will remove this barrier, giving all students the tools they need to actively participate in reading activities, demonstrate understanding, and build critical literacy skills.

Third graders are still developing writing skills and developing stamina. While we are encouraged to utilize the district provided ipads and programs while teaching, students are not efficient with keyboards. We are also not using so many tools that a tablet grants us! With the grant funds, we will purchase enough stylus pens and classroom charging stations to ensure devices remain ready for use. Students will use stylus pens during whole group reading instruction, small group guided reading, and independent literacy stations.The pens will allow for quicker differentiation, early finisher activities, developing cursive writing and taking assignments to a deeper level.