Emotional Support teachers Colleen Jones and Miranda Frye at Penn-Trafford High School worked together to plan and fundraise for a more inviting classroom where their students can relax and collect themselves when they are feeling stressed. The Penn-Trafford Community Education Foundation funded the project, which is now complete.
The new space provides a multisensory, calming environment where the students can redirect their thinking when they are frustrated or having a hard time managing their emotions.
The students are very appreciative of the new comfortable seating, lights, plants, fish tank, and puzzles. Students are relieved by the new classroom, and have offered the following praise:
“The new space is a lot more relaxing. When I’m there, I feel like I can get back on track.”
“The light coverings dim the lights; bright lights hurt my eyes and brain.”
"I like the chairs, they are very fluffy and less stuffy than the regular classroom. I also like the fish. It's like having a pet greet you when you come, just that they're quiet.”
"When it comes to the environment it's very laid back. I'm not feeling overwhelmed or forced into any kind of seat or situation, I'm allowed to work freely and find myself a lot more relaxed."
