Elementary Students Benefit From Flexible Seating

In the 2025-2026 school year, flexible seating was added to several elementary classrooms, giving students the option to choose the learning environment that works best for them. Different seating and desk options, including surf seats, wobble stools, cushions, and standing desks, lead to improved focus and engagement.The funding came from several GDF endowments:  Uniquely the Same – The Jusko Family Endowment, The GDF Endowment for 21st Century Learning, and the GDF Endowment for Educational Programs.

Fifth grade teacher Mrs. Ashley Lutze saw firsthand how much of a difference these seating options made, noting that the "small shift has had a huge impact on their engagement and behaviors." Other teachers also noted the positive effects the flexible seating had in their classrooms. Linntown teacher Mrs. Merissa Henry explained that having different seating options helped students "focus and regulate their energy", leading to increased participation and a greater sense of responsibility. Likewise, Mrs. Megan Catherman found that giving students the freedom to choose where they work improved focus and engagement, all while minimizing distractions. These experiences show how flexible seating has helped create classroom environments where students can feel more comfortable, engaged, and responsible for their own learning.