My project for flexible seating is designed to create a more engaging and comfortable learning environment that supports student choice and collaboration. By incorporating options like floor cushions, classroom couches, standing desks, and bean bags, students can select seating that best meets their learning styles and needs. This setup encourages movement, increases focus, and fosters a sense of ownership over their learning space. Overall, flexible seating promotes a more student-centered and inclusive classroom.

The need for flexible seating in our classroom arises from the increasing recognition that traditional seating arrangements do not adequately support the diverse learning needs of today’s students. In our current setting, students are confined to standard desks and chairs arranged in rows, which limit movement, inhibit collaboration, and often fail to support students with varying attention spans, sensory needs, and learning styles. Research and best practices in education emphasize the importance of classroom environments that encourage autonomy, increase engagement, and reduce behavioral disruptions—outcomes that are all associated with flexible seating. Based on both observational data and informal student surveys, students have expressed a desire for more choice in how and where they work. Furthermore, teachers have consistently noted that when students are given limited opportunities to move or adjust their learning environment, focus and engagement decline, particularly during independent work and group activities. Classroom engagement and comfort can directly impact academic performance by allowing students to concentrate better and take ownership of their learning. The target population for this project includes the 150 students in our grade level, with particular benefits expected for our 20+ special education and ELL students. Flexible seating will offer these students a more inclusive, adaptable, and responsive environment that meets their physical and emotional needs—ultimately enhancing academic outcomes and classroom behavior. The current state of rigid seating does not reflect the needs of 21st-century learners, making this project both timely and necessary.

When we first started thinking about flexible seating, it wasn’t about having a trendy classroom or buying fun furniture—it was about meeting my students where they are. Every day, we watch kids struggle to sit still in traditional desks. Some need to move, some need to stretch out, and others just need a quiet, comfortable corner to focus. We realized that if we wanted to personalize learning and help them take ownership of their success, the physical space had to reflect that. So, my goal with this project is to completely reimagine how students experience learning in the classroom. With grant funding, we plan to introduce flexible seating options that are both functional and inviting—things like couches, tall chairs, cushioned floor seats, low tables, lap desks, and standing desks. These will be set up in different areas around the classroom, allowing students to choose the space that helps them learn best during independent work, small group time, and even some whole-class lessons. 
We’re aiming to impact about 150 sixth graders, including a high number of students with IEPs, 504 plans, and language learning needs. These students often have trouble focusing in rigid seating arrangements and could really benefit from a more flexible and inclusive environment. We have seen how just giving them the option to move or adjust their space improves their focus and reduces disruptions. This isn’t just a “nice to have” idea—it’s grounded in research. Studies have shown that classroom environments can significantly impact learning outcomes. In fact, research from the American Journal of Occupational Therapy shows that alternative seating options can improve focus and engagement, especially for students with ADHD or sensory needs. Our district emphasizes personalized learning and equity, and this project supports both by giving students the tools and choices they need to be successful. 
At its core, this project is about creating a space where every student feels comfortable, valued, and ready to learn. It’s a small shift in classroom design that can lead to a big shift in mindset—and we are excited to make it happen.