Our classroom has flexible seating that encourages student choice, collaboration, and comfort, but we’re missing the tables to make it fully functional. This grant will fund student-friendly tables that support writing, group work, and hands-on learning. With these additions, students will have the space they need to stay focused and succeed across all subjects. This project will help create a more inclusive, engaging, and productive learning environment for every student.

My 2nd-grade classroom at Charles R. Drew Elementary currently uses flexible seating to promote student choice, movement, and engagement. Research and classroom observation consistently show that flexible seating improves focus, encourages collaboration, and builds responsibility. However, while students benefit from alternative seating like wobble stools, cushions, and low seats, we are missing an essential part of the learning environment—appropriate tables. Without proper table surfaces, students often have to write on clipboards, the floor, or unsteady lap desks, which limits comfort and productivity during lessons and independent work time. Our campus serves a diverse population with a high percentage of economically disadvantaged students. Many of my students benefit from movement-based seating and having control over their learning space, which is especially helpful for students with attention difficulties, anxiety, or sensory needs. Data from classroom surveys and teacher observations show that when students are allowed to choose their workspaces, they are more engaged and produce higher-quality work. However, this impact is limited without tables that allow for meaningful collaboration and efficient workspace use. This grant will directly benefit the 20 students in my class this school year, as well as dozens more in the years to come. The tables will be used daily for reading groups, writing activities, math centers, science experiments, and partner work. By providing sturdy, mobile tables that fit our flexible seating layout, I can ensure all students have equal access to a learning space that fosters academic growth. This project is needed now because the flexible seating has already been successfully implemented, and students are thriving. Providing tables is the next step to maximizing the benefits of the flexible classroom. With the tables in place, our space will be complete, supporting collaboration, comfort, and academic success for every learner.

The goal of this project is to complete the flexible seating environment in my 2nd-grade classroom by adding appropriate tables that support student learning, collaboration, and engagement. While the seating is already in place, the lack of suitable tables limits students' ability to work comfortably, complete assignments effectively, and fully benefit from the flexible layout. This project directly supports Crosby ISD’s mission of personalizing learning and aligns with our campus improvement plan by creating a classroom that meets the diverse needs of all learners. 
Ultimately, this project enriches student learning by giving them the tools they need to succeed. It completes the flexible seating transformation already underway and helps create a space where all students can feel comfortable, focused, and excited to learn every day.