February 13, 2026
Creating a Classroom Community at New Bridge! Fourth-grade teacher Ms. McLaughlin had one clear goal when setting up her classroom for the year: to create a space that would make students excited to come to school every day. Thanks to funding from our Classroom Grants Program, she's been able to do just that! With the addition of soft cushions, bean bag chairs, and new organizational tools, the classroom now has a warm and welcoming atmosphere, while new PBIS rewards—such as puzzles, enamel pins, seed packs, and mini plush animals—serve as incentives to motivate students and celebrate their hard work and positive choices. Expanded art supplies and recess equipment has further developed this thriving classroom community, but perhaps the biggest hit is the Fujifilm Instax camera! Students use it to capture special moments throughout the day, and then proudly display the printed photos on the walls: big smiles, small triumphs, and candid moments of friendship. The result has been a classroom community where students feel valued, supported, and eager to participate in learning.
"When my students first walked into our newly refreshed classroom, they could hardly contain their excitement," shared Ms. McLaughlin. "The soft cushions and cozy bean bag chairs immediately set a welcoming tone, and students quickly found their favorite reading spots. The Fujifilm Instax camera has become a highlight of our days — we capture moments of teamwork, perseverance, and friendship, then proudly display the photos on our classroom wall. Each new photo reminds us that we're building something special together: a community that values kindness, effort, and belonging. These new materials have helped transform our daily routines into opportunities for connection and joy. Thanks to your generosity, our classroom now feels like a true home for learning. Your support made this transformation possible, and we're so grateful for the joy and pride you've helped bring to our classroom."
"When my students first walked into our newly refreshed classroom, they could hardly contain their excitement," shared Ms. McLaughlin. "The soft cushions and cozy bean bag chairs immediately set a welcoming tone, and students quickly found their favorite reading spots. The Fujifilm Instax camera has become a highlight of our days — we capture moments of teamwork, perseverance, and friendship, then proudly display the photos on our classroom wall. Each new photo reminds us that we're building something special together: a community that values kindness, effort, and belonging. These new materials have helped transform our daily routines into opportunities for connection and joy. Thanks to your generosity, our classroom now feels like a true home for learning. Your support made this transformation possible, and we're so grateful for the joy and pride you've helped bring to our classroom."