Grant Provides Standing Desks For Andover Classroom
MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- Senior students in one Andover High School classroom are finding sitting can stand in the way of learning.
Rich Wilkie's social studies class earned five Ergotron standing desks this school year through a grant from the American Heart Association.
"I was trying to look for some variety in the classroom, just different ways to set up the room, different ways to engage the kids," Wilkie said.
The 27-year teaching veteran says his students are often more alert when they are standing.
Senior Emily Qualen says she likes having the choice between sitting and standing.
"Once you stand up you're more alert and you can focus more," Qualen said.
Senior Carter Phillips agreed he can often get sleepy during afternoons.
"When I sit, if I'm like really comfortable, more than likely I kind of want to fall asleep," Phillips said.
While most of the 30 or so students in class said they would not want to stand all the time, they are happy to have the option.
"I think there's no question there's more engagement," Wilkie said. "I've had kids come in and request the desk because they're kind of sleepy in the middle of the day, and they just feel it's better to be up."
The school is in the process of applying for more grants to hopefully get more standing desks.
While school districts from Stillwater to Rochester have some standing desks, they are all usually obtained through grants related to health in the classroom.
