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Message SAMPLE PROPOSAL for ACTION BASED LEARNING / KINESTHETIC CLASSROOMS Please note the following proposal is provided as a template, to help the educator get started on writing their own grant. The data in the proposal should be specific to each individual school. Because each individual will have their own plan for implementing Action Based Learning, the following proposal is simply a guide.

Action Based Learning Proposal Purpose Schools recognize the need to adapt the classroom to the unique learning styles of our low-performing, yet active learners. We’ve made it our personal mission to improve the overall well being of each and every student we serve. Even more specifically, to reach the 3L Student (Least likely to succeed, Last in line at recess, Lost in the school system.) By introducing kinesthetic activities infused with brain-based learning strategies in the classroom setting, our goal is to provide students an advantage to learn. Our initiative is based on neuroscience which strongly supports the link between movement and learning. We know that healthy, active students make better learners, and we plan to implement this concept districtwide. Action Based Learning will provide educational training and tools that focus on creating an optimal learning environment for all students. Research shows that students engaged in active learning show improved memory retention, increased focus and attention, improved grades, and less behavioral issues (Jack & Kyado, 2017). Our project will offer students a reprieve from the traditional sedentary learning environment, and make learning more enjoyable for the students. The district and school leaders are committed to improving the outcomes for students in academics, behavior, and physical well-being through this initiative. Research The CDC performed a review of 251 research studies which examined the association between physical activity and academic performance, including academic achievement, behavior, and cognitive skills and attitudes. The result was an overwhelming body of evidence supporting the benefits of movement and learning. The CDC summarized the review with the following recommendation, “To increase learning capabilities and the attention of the students, it is important to purposefully integrate physical movement in classroom activities.” According to Larry Abraham in the Dept. of Kinesiology at the University of TX, “Classroom teachers should have kids, move for the same reason that P.E. teachers have had kids count.”Research shows that movement in the classroom enhances cognitive functioning in the following ways: Reinforce Academic Content- The human brain is segmented into two hemispheres that control the opposite sides of the body. It is suggested that cross lateral exercises result in better communication between the hemispheres. The connections that are formed, help reinforce academic content for the learner. Movement Grows Brain Cells by stimulating the release of BDNF, commonly referred to as the “Miracle Grow for the Brain”. Students in active classrooms show improved memory, ability to retain and retrieve information more efficiently, and improved skills such as sequencing, critical thinking, and reading and writing. Movement puts the brain in an Optimal Learning State Movement allows for a continuous supply of the two vital brain nutrients (Glucose and Oxygen) to continually travel to the brain. The result is a more attentive and active brain - a student that is prepared to learn. In contrast, research also shows long periods of inactivity are shown to negatively affect cognitive development, and possibly hinder the ability to retain and absorb new information. Movement puts the brain and body back into hormonal balance which in turn, regulates mood and behavior. The release of epinephrine hormone is a key factor in preventing drowsy and tired students. Hormones including dopamine, serotonin, endorphins, and dopamine are released during movement, and directly related to improved mood and behavior. Active classrooms show higher attendance levels and drastically reduced referral rates. Movement supports all 5 of the basic systems - physical, cognitive, social, emotional, spiritual/moral. Research shows movement improves self-esteem, impulse control, social adjustment & social competence, lower stress levels, and improved behavior. Referenced Studies: 1. Time in Target Zone and Cognitive Performance Dr. Darla Castelli and Dr. Charles Hillman et al -January 2011 2. Exercise boosts brain function (Dr. John Medina) 3. Exercise improves cognition (Dr. Robert Sylwester) 4. Exercise strengthens memory (Dr. John Ratey) 5. Exercise prepares the brain to learn (Dr. John Ratey) 6. Exercise regulates behavior (Dr. John Ratey) 7. Exercise weakens the ill effects of poverty (Dr. Eric Jensen) 8. Exercise can positively change the brain (Dr. John Ratey) 9. Exercise helps boost BDNF to alleviate symptoms of ADHD (Dr. Michael Hopkins) 2012 10. Aerobic Exercise increases learning processes (Dr. Charles Hillman) 2013 11. Physical Fitness Improves Language Skills (Dr. Charles Hillman) 2014 12. Obesity Impacts Academic Success (Dr. Charles Hillman) 2014 13. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The association between school based physical activity, including physical education, and academic performance. Atlanta, GA: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services; 2010. 14. Hannaford, 2008: Smart Moves Why Learning Is Not All In Your Head 15. Medina, 2008: Brain Rules 16. Jensen, 2009: Teaching with the Brain in Mind 17. Ratey, 2008: SPARK

Action Based Learning Labs The ABL labs are shared spaces that are available to all students throughout the year, and for teachers to sign their class up throughout the week for 20-30 min sessions. Each station in the lab focuses on strengthening the 12 foundations of learning readiness. The lab is designed to anchor learning and reinforce academic content being taught in the classroom. Specific foundations that are strengthened at these stations include fine motor, visual tracking, vestibular development and cross lateralization. Strengthening these foundations, assist the child in placing words on a page, reading words from left to right, writing patterns in sequence, and improve the overall cognitive development of the student. Action Based Learning Labs include an all inclusive ABL training manual to assist in classroom management, implementation, and best practices. Kinesthetic Classrooms - Kinesthetic Classrooms and Kinesthetic corners include a variety of active learning stations, active learning mats and wall activities, and flexible seating options. Equipment will include fully kinesthetic desks that promote proprioception, vestibular development, balance, and cross brain lateralization. Model Classrooms will be fully outfitted with kinesthetic desks and flexible seating to create a learning environment conducive to how the brain learns. Parent Participation and Long Term Involvement: Parents will be provided an online digital Action Based Learning Lab mini - manual to understand the science behind movement and its link to academic achievement. This home based lab manual will provide an explanation of purposeful movement and how it can fill developmental gaps in learners. The manual will provide simple practical purposeful movements which can be performed at home. Parents will also be provided a similar online digital kinesthetic classroom manual which provides at home strategies to encourage students to use movement to stay focused at home during homework/reading assignments and test preparation. Parents and members of the community will also be invited and encouraged to attend our on-site professional development session to introduce action based learning. Train the Trainer Model Certification Options For the designated ABL Leaders within the school or district: ● ABL-LF Lab Facilitator Certification (4 courses) - $195/course ● ABL-ST School Trainer Certification (ABL-LF plus 4 courses) - $195/course Staff Training In addition to the equipment provided, Action Based Learning will provide training to assist in the initial set-up and implementation of this project, as well as long term support in the form of professional development sessions and on-site training for staff. The training package we have chosen includes the following: Professional Development Options, training for entire staff: ● (2) In Person Staff Trainings (spring and fall) to gain buy-in and align staff in creating a culture of active healthy engaged learners, schoolwide. +Learn how to take ABL beyond the lab! ● Monthly Workshops via Zoom - Free to all staff

Results/Outcomes To improve the overall health, wellness, and education of the student. More specifically we expect to see: ● Improved Academic Achievement ● Improved Mood and Behavior / Decrease in discipline referrals ● Increased Engagement in the Classroom / Decrease in off-task behavior ● Increased Attendance Rates The effectiveness of the project will be evidenced through the following measures: ● Pre/Post Assessments ● Quarterly Data Collection for labs: Lab Usage and Progress Monitoring for outcomes based on the HCS Strategic Action Plan, which is inclusive of the Whole School, Whole Child, Whole Community Elements ● CATCH surveys for teachers and students (Coordinated Approach to Child Health) ● Student + Teacher Questionnaire (Pre and Post) ● Tracking Attendance Rates ● Tracking Discipline / Referral Rates ** ABL Labs and Classrooms will be implemented and data collection will take place at the following locations: