Wilson County teacher raises funds to bring flexible seating to her classroom

MT. JULIET, Tenn. (WKRN) — A Wilson County teacher is making sure every student has a comfortable seat.

Fifth-grade math and science teacher Kimberly Knowlton said that she saw success in her classroom after introducing some flexible seating, which is a classroom arrangement that provides students with a variety of seating options. Following that initial success, Knowlton was determined to offer it to all of her students.

Knowlton has taught for eleven years. Knowlton told News 2 that she encourages her students to walk her through problems, which helps them realize that they understand tough concepts and have what she calls a “lightbulb moment.”

Additionally, Knowlton has worked to make learning math and science both fun and comfortable for the past ten years at W.A. Wright Elementary School. In previous years, Knowlton has prioritized calm lighting and inventive, but comfortable, seating for some students. This year, her goal is to provide comfortable seating for all students.

“I wanted it to be comfortable for me as well as the kids that are in here with me, so I try to incorporate little things,” Knowlton explained. “Like last year when I introduced LED lights, they were like, ‘She’s got LEDs!'”

She told News 2 that comfort in the classroom goes a long way toward “lightbulb” moments.

“One of the teachers I was student teaching with when I went back to school had some flexible seating opinions in her classroom,” Knowlton said. “It seems like it wouldn’t be that big of a deal, but the amount of focus increased when they had that option.”

She aims to raise the funds to bring in flexible seating options like balance balls, wiggle cushions, and cushioned stools. Knowlton explained that some of these options also engage students’ core muscles so that they stabilize themselves as they work.

“It’s just giving themselves a choice to take ownership in what they are doing because they know they have to be responsible,” Knowlton added. “You know this isn’t a toy. I am not bouncing across the room on this yoga ball today. But the focus and responsibility when they take that option helps them to be more engaged.”

Knowlton told News 2 that she hopes the new seating options further empower students, especially as they know that their community helped them get flexible seating.

In partnership with The Gates Foundation, Knowlton has raised over $400 . However, she still needs $125 to reach her goal. If you wish to donate, click here.