Independence and Adaptive Tools for Mixed Abilities Learners
For many K-4 students in the Mixed Abilities program at Oak Street Elementary, the physical act of handwriting can be an exhausting roadblock; one that often can lead to deep frustration, sensory overload, and a desire to give up.
Thanks to a Goddard Education Foundation (GEF) Innovative Teacher Grant, Oak Street Elementary Mixed Abilities Teacher, Mrs. Bally is tearing down those barriers and redefining what “writing” tools look like. With funding from the grant, her Mixed Abilities classroom introduced adaptive writing tools, specifically specialized letter and number stamps along with flexible, sensory-friendly seating.
By using stamps, students who struggle with fine motor skills can now independently spell words, construct sentences, and solve math problems with minimal staff support. The stamps aren’t replacing pencil and paper but instead, serve as a bridge that allows students to show what they know without being held back by a pencil grip.
Coupled with flexible seating that helps students stay calm, regulated, and in a “ready-to-learn” state, these tools are completely transforming the classroom environment. Best of all, these resources are entirely mobile, traveling with students as needed.
By taking the physical struggle out of the equation, Mrs. Bally is boosting classroom focus and giving students independence in learning.
Thank you Goddard Education Foundation for helping fund opportunities to bridge the gap for all types of learners in Goddard Public Schools.
“Scooting to Inclusion”
At Oak Street Elementary, the Goddard Education Foundation (GEF) exists for one reason: to generate transformational impact for students like Asher.
Asher is a student at Oak Street Elementary with diverse learning needs who, like any other child, simply wants to participate alongside his peers. One afternoon in the gym, his adaptive P.E. teacher, Carolyn McDaneld, watched as Asher looked on while his classmates raced across the floor on scooters. The desire in his eyes was clear, he wanted to join them.
Mrs. McDaneld knew that “good enough” wasn’t enough for Asher. After researching equipment, she submitted an Innovative Teacher Grant to the GEF for a specialized adaptive scooter. This tool is specifically designed to bridge the gap between a physical barrier and total independence for students like Asher.
“As an Adaptive PE teacher we do our best to modify and adapt activities so our students are socially included and to help build confidence as they interact with their peers,” shares Mrs. McDaneld. This program will provide adaptive scooters for students in Life Skills and Mixed Abilities classrooms across the USD 265 District.”
Because of the generosity of our Staff Givers and community partners, that dream became a reality.
When the scooter finally arrived, the atmosphere in the gym was electric. As Mrs. McDaneld and a team of educators helped Asher settle into his new ride, the anticipation was visible. And then, in a moment that no one in that room will ever forget, Asher was off. He was scooting.
The joy was immediate. The independence was undeniable. There were tears in the gym that day as a team of educators, who had partnered so closely with Asher’s family, watched a barrier vanish. What any parent would define as "success" for their child came to life in that moment of belonging.
To learn more about the Adaptive Scooter, check out this short video!
When you give to the Goddard Education Foundation, these are the moments you create. You aren't just funding a grant; you are removing a barrier for students like Asher and many more who will benefit from the Adaptive Scooter. You are ensuring that ALL students, regardless of their needs, have the opportunity to fully engage, thrive, and succeed.
End of Year Updates! - Corrected
