GREEN BAY, Wis. (NBC 26) — A Wisconsin organization helped fund one local kindergarten teacher's classroom project that would provide engaging, socially distanced recess activities for her classroom.
Nicolet Elementary School kindergarten teacher Jessica Bernard posted the project "COVID Recess Fun!" on DonorsChoose in late January 2021. She wanted to give her students engaging gross motor materials that would help them burn off some excess energy, practice social skills, and get the kids ready to learn in the classroom.
Bernard said the supplies she needed included koosh balls, poly spots, basketballs, playground balls, jump ropes, and bags.
As part of an effort to fund all Wisconsin project requests through DonorsChoose, Herb Kohl Philanthropies funded Bernard's classroom project. Staff said this is the fourth time the organization has funded all Wisconsin project requests made through DonorsChoose.
“Now more than ever, we want to show teachers just how much we appreciate their efforts to provide much needed supplies and learning opportunities, especially during this incredibly challenging school year,” said Herb Kohl. “We love our teachers, who continue to go above and beyond in caring for Wisconsin’s students. This school year has brought many challenges to teachers and students alike. In these projects, we see persistence, adjustment and creativity. We hope this funding helps bring a lot of joy to classrooms—both in person and virtually.”
Bernard appreciated the donation, saying recess was now going to look very different. She can't wait to share the great news with her students and give them the materials to play with during recess.
