Khadijah Mosely, 3-5 math and science teacher at Hornets Nest Elementary School, won a $50,000 furniture makeover from KI’s fourth annual K-12 Classroom Furniture Giveaway. 

Mosely’s classroom will house upgraded desks and chairs that will allow for flexible seating and easy-to-move pieces to create a variety of seating arrangements.

“My scholars really needed a space that we could transform as needed, because we know that weekly data changes and the needs of our scholars change all the time,” said Mosely. “We know that teachers do not make a lot of money, and most of our summer income goes into setting up our classrooms, making it a cozy and inviting learning environment. So this contest gives me an opportunity to expand my thought process. The sky’s the limit with what we can do with our kids if we just give them that chance.”

KI manufactures innovative furniture and architectural wall system solutions for education, healthcare, government and corporate markets. Four grand prize winners out of 12 finalists were selected by a panel of architects and designers, identifying thoughtful classroom layouts and compelling design stories. 

Mosely’s proposal featured fun and bright colors and the ability to move freely, while still focusing on learning. Alisa Williams with KI said the competition isn’t just an opportunity to help improve classrooms, but also a chance for KI to receive “real-time feedback” on their classroom furniture and help improve for the future.

“Furniture really does bring a different type of learning atmosphere,” said Williams. 

As a 23-year veteran, Mosely said it’s important for students to feel comfortable in their learning environment and also have opportunities to collaborate with each other. Mosely said she’s looking forward to seeing how student scores will improve with the new furniture.

“It’s important for me to see the psychological change of our students and if the environment is going to help them retain the information, grasp the information and foster more relationships,” said Mosely. “Ergonomically, I know it’s going to help them because studies have shown that just sitting a certain way or if they have an opportunity to engage differently, their learning expands.

 “We know that what’s inside of our school is far greater than a school score and test scores because we have some of the brightest, most loving students ever,” added Mosely. “We also have the most qualified educators here, so I’m excited to be a part of that movement.”