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To conclude our four-part back-to-school mini-series, we asked a final panel of teachers from across the region: If price were no object, what would you order for your classroom?
That’s Gina Cervantes of Kenwood Elementary on the right, playfully competing with fellow fourth-grade teacher Phil Dreste “to enrich our medieval unit.”
Fourth grade, Kenwood Elementary, Champaign
“If money were no object, I would create a very cozy library area in the classroom, with plenty of comfortable seating, pillows, stuffed animals and rugs, and space for students to spread out.
“I would generally get more comfortable seating in the classroom, such as bean bags and plate chairs.
“In addition, I would expand my library with more books that the students have chosen. I Love Reading, and I really want students to find it an enjoyable experience.”
Dejanna Blair
Physical Education, Dr. Preston L. Williams Jr Elementary, Urbana
“If I were to buy something for my classroom, it would definitely be a classroom bike set. Urbana is very bike-friendly. Cycling is a great way to encourage lifelong physical activity.
“Giving students the opportunity to learn to ride a bike in the safety of their own physical education class will give them a sense of security. Once a student learns, I believe they will have access to more things – like transportation to and from school – all while maintaining an athletic lifestyle.”
Daniela Coombe
Spanish, Arcola Junior/Senior High School
“If there were no budget constraints, I would invest in a subscription service that offers students snacks from different Spanish-speaking countries to try.
“To understand a language, you have to immerse yourself in its culture, and food is an essential aspect of that cultural experience. And besides, who doesn’t appreciate good food?
“I realized that creating memorable, enjoyable experiences helps students retain information better.
“As an educator, my goal is to offer innovative activities that enhance learning. I am convinced that such an initiative would not only be educational but also a lot of fun for the students.”
Avery Sandiford
Agriculture, Oakwood High School
“I know I would upgrade our store and my program if price wasn’t an issue.
“The students have shown interest in welding and I would like to offer a basic welding course at the high school.”
Carmen Morgan
Fifth grade, East Prairie Middle School, Tuscola
“If I were lucky enough to be able to purchase something for my classroom, I would love to purchase new furniture and decor for my library area. I always want students to feel a sense of excitement when they enter my classroom, and having an inviting space to read is one way to achieve that.
“I try very hard to create this kind of atmosphere in my classroom, but like most teachers, I have to raise my own money to do it. My library is currently furnished with bookshelves that my husband built and furniture that I have either been given as gifts or purchased at various flea markets.
“If I had an unlimited budget, I would love to buy comfortable seating and a new rug to spruce up the area a bit. The kids could then curl up with a good book and enjoy the space.”
Amena Saleem
Third grade, Countryside School, Champaign
“If I had an unlimited budget, I would go on a shopping spree and buy new books for our classroom library.
“We are fortunate to have a large book collection at our school and are encouraged to purchase culturally responsive books. However, there is always room for more books, especially by authors from diverse backgrounds.
“When I was a young reader, I never saw characters that looked like me, and my experiences were never accurately represented in the books I read. I want my students to see themselves in the stories available in their classroom in the hopes that they will develop a sense of belonging.
“When young people read about diverse characters with unfamiliar backgrounds, they can think critically about how we treat others and simply understand different perspectives, which is so important for third and fourth graders. My students usually realize that we all have unique stories, but ultimately share the same human experience.
“I would also definitely take my third and fourth graders shopping with me because they always have the best book recommendations.”
Vickie Conlin
Economics, Gibson City-Melvin-Sibley High School
“I would like to have a starter kit (screen printing) with equipment and supplies to teach my business students how to start and run a business. Basically a school shop.”
“As a business teacher, we could cover so many aspects of my teaching with real experience.”
Stephanie Leinard
Business and Technology, Bement Schools
“I taught fifth grade for 17 years and this year I moved to be our high school business and technology teacher, as well as grades 1-12.
“Fortunately, before school started, I was blessed with brand new desktop computers and a Newline for my high school lab, as well as whiteboard tables for my elementary school lab.
“If price were no object, I would love to equip my elementary school lab with various coding robots, new chairs, and 3D pens. My high school students would also love new computer-style chairs.
“I think what I would most like to give my students is experiences, whether in the classroom or traveling to learn about technology and business first hand.”
Diana Hernandez Diaz
First grade, Yankee Ridge Elementary, Urbana
“If price were no object, I would like to organize many excursions as I believe this is essential for learning and getting to know our surroundings.
“By applying what we learn in the classroom to the real world and experiencing our heritage firsthand, we can consolidate our knowledge.
“In addition, these experiences promote social relationships and positive behavior in diverse environments, thereby fostering respect and good citizenship.”
Kristine Rousseau
Fourth grade, Lincoln Trail Elementary, Mahomet
“If I could buy something for my classroom without looking at the price tag, I would order trapezoidal student desks or tables.
“Trapezoid tables enhance classroom learning by allowing for flexible, creative arrangements. This encourages collaboration as they can be grouped together for group work or separated for individual tasks.
“This adaptability encourages student engagement, supports different learning styles and maximizes classroom use, creating a dynamic learning environment. This, along with different chair styles, would be the icing on the cake.”
