Our elementary school is home to a large population of foster youth and students who have experienced significant trauma, as well as two Specialized Academic Instruction (SAI) classes supporting children with a range of learning and behavioral needs. For years, our dedicated staff has recognized the urgent need for a calm, structured environment where students can safely de-escalate, regulate their emotions, and reenter the classroom ready to learn. Unfortunately, space limitations and lack of funding have kept this vision out of reach—until now. Recent room adjustments have finally created the opportunity to make this dream a reality.

We are working to create the N.E.S.T. (Nurturing Environment for Social-Emotional Transformation), a safe and supportive space designed to help students process emotions in healthy ways. The N.E.S.T. will be divided into five zones: a Calm Entry zone, Sensory Regulation zone, Cool Down Reflection zone, Safe Movement/De-escalation zone, and Staff Storage and Safety zone. Each area will need furniture, tools, stationary, and organizational equipment. Furniture is our largest cost, including chairs, cushions, and bounce chairs. Sensory tools—like weighted plush, fidget stones, balls, sensory tubes, bottles, and calming lights—are also essential to help students self-regulate and feel safe.

For years, our support staff has dreamed of a space where students with the highest needs can de-escalate, allowing teachers to teach and other students to learn without interruption. Now, with the space finally available, we just need the funding to make it happen. This is my first GoFundMe project, and my friends and family know I don’t ask for support unless it’s absolutely necessary. If you believe in education and want to make a difference—big or small—we would be deeply grateful for your support. Even sharing our story helps! Thank you for helping us create a nurturing environment for every child.