09/12/2025
"A few weeks ago, I started something in my classroom called the ‘I Need’ Box.
It’s simple:
📌 Students can write down something they need (supplies, help, support, whatever) and drop it in the box. No awkwardness. No fear of speaking up. Just a safe way to ask for help.
The first week? Two boys reported bullying. We fixed it.
The next week, I changed it up: EVERY student puts in a card daily. Blank is fine, but the routine makes it safe for everyone.
And wow… the responses have been incredible.
✨ Requests for seat changes.
✨ Help with schoolwork.
✨ Supplies they were too embarrassed to ask for.
✨ Special handshakes when they walk in.
✨ Even just… hugs.
And here’s the best part: they’re now starting to skip the box completely and come talk to me directly. Trust is growing. Connections are building.
15 years teaching middle school, and I can honestly say—this is the BEST thing I’ve ever done to reach my kids early in the year.
Sometimes all they need is a safe way to say: “I need…”
*** Julia Brown ***
