Building Strong Mathematical Foundations Through Hands-On Learning

Moderation state
funded
Grant Applicant
Crystal Bailey
Grant Co-applicants
Megan Schwartz, Erica Allstadt
School Site
Donner Trail Elementary
Grant Category
Mathematics & Science
Grant Date
2026-06-09T12:00:00
Description

This grant seeks funding for a variety of hands-on math materials designed to support early numeracy development in a kindergarten and first grade classroom. The requested items include counting objects (such as manipulatives like bears, cubes, or counters), place value whiteboards, number formation practice pads, and a comparing numbers game.

These materials are developmentally appropriate and aligned with early math standards, allowing students to engage in tactile, visual, and interactive learning experiences. Together, they will create a well-rounded math center that supports foundational skills in counting, number sense, place value, and number comparison.

Benefits of Program

Hands-on math materials are essential for young learners as they transition from concrete to abstract thinking. These tools will provide the following benefits:

  • Concrete Understanding of Math Concepts: Counting objects help students physically represent numbers, building true number sense.
  • Place Value Mastery: Whiteboards provide visual models for tens and ones, strengthening understanding of our base-ten system.
  • Critical Thinking and Comparison Skills: Games encourage students to analyze and compare numbers using mathematical language (greater than, less than, equal to).
  • Increased Engagement: Interactive and game-based learning fosters excitement and motivation in math.
  • Differentiation Opportunities: Materials can be adapted for varying skill levels, supporting all learners.
Success of Program

Anticipated Outcomes:

  • Improved counting accuracy and one-to-one correspondence
  • Stronger understanding of place value (tens and ones)
  • Increased ability to correctly form and write numbers
  • Enhanced skills in comparing and ordering numbers
  • Greater student confidence and participation in math activities

Measurement Methods:

  • Pre- and post-assessments on counting, number recognition, and place value
  • Teacher observations and anecdotal records during math centers
  • Student work samples from number formation pads and whiteboard activities
  • Informal assessments through math games and small group instruction
  • Tracking student growth using standards-based checklists
Implementation

These materials will be integrated into daily math instruction through a combination of whole-group lessons, small-group instruction, and independent math centers to correspond with our Eureka math curriculum. 

  • Teachers will introduce each material with explicit modeling and guided practice
  • Students will rotate through math centers where they will use counting objects, place value boards, and games
  • Materials will be used to reinforce current math units, including counting, number writing, and place value
  • Small group instruction will target specific skill gaps using these tools
  • Games and hands-on activities will be incorporated regularly to reinforce learning in an engaging way
Can you share this grant with your grade level or subject team?

These materials could be shared with older students in different classrooms who need support with place value concepts and foundational understandings. 

Sustainability
The requested materials are durable and designed for repeated classroom use over multiple years.
Manipulatives and whiteboards are reusable and easy to clean
Number formation pads can be supplemented with reusable sleeves or dry-erase alternatives to extend use
Clear expectations and routines will be established to ensure proper care and longevity
Materials can be shared across grade levels, maximizing their impact
Minimal replacement costs make this a sustainable investment for long-term student success
Amount Funded
$553.00
Individual Budget Items(s)
$72 - Nuts About Counting QTY:2
$275 - Magnetic Learning Numbers
$28 - Comparing Numbers Flip & Solve Board
$47 - Place Value Write & Wipe Boards
$36 - Grab & Match Leveled Place Value Quickies
Shipping
$48.00
Taxes
$47.00
Supporting Links
Nuts about counting QTY: 2
Magnetic Learning Numbers QTY: 2
Comparing Numbers QTY: 1
Place Value Write & Wipe Boards QTY:1
Grab & Match Leveled Place Value Quickies QTY: 1