At Apache Innovative School, we are about developing critical thinking skills instead of teaching for standardized tests. We aspire to bring into our classrooms as many tools as possible to develop a critically thinking mind. Osmo is a learning tool that fosters social intelligence and creative thinking by opening up the iPad to an endless number of kinesthetic activities in language, math and physics. The school itself serves students from diverse cultural, linguistic and ethnic backgrounds in grades pre-k through 6th, with 79% receiving free and reduced lunch. Recently, the focus of learning has changed from traditional instructional structures to more innovative instruction to better meet the student needs, offering genius hour projects and maker space time to all students. Genius hour and maker space projects for all students provide an opportunity to engage all of our students at a high level and in ways not previous offered. As a building, we realized we needed to change our instruction to meet the changing demographics of our students. We currently have two Osmos and have seen the heightened level of engagement among students and positive impact they have had on student learning.

The funds will be used to purchase 14 Osmo genius Kits. This would provide two kits per grade level. With the current grade level configuration, there are 4 classrooms at each grade level and each kit would be used by between 40 - 50 students. The Osmo Genius Kits are compatible and integrate with the iPads currently being used by students. The Osmos offer the teacher the ability to select learning options that meet specific student learning needs and give students the option of choice in their learning. Daniel Pink noted, control is great for creating compliance, while giving choice and autonomy creates engagement and fulfillment. In addition, access to technology is an equalizer for students from diverse backgrounds. The Osmo tools gives students access and new ways to interact with technology and collaborate with peers.

We will be purchasing 14 Osmo genius kits that include word, tangrams, newton and numbers interactive learning tools for grades K to 6. Our goal is to raise enough to purchase 14 kits and each kit costs approximately $100 through the Osmo website (https://www.playosmo.com/en/). This price was competitive with Amazon, Target and Walmart regular retail price.

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