Lansingburgh co-teachers' creative vision earns them a classroom transformation

Zibro and Hupfl submitted this design for the classroom makeover. (Courtesy: KI)

By Olivia Jaquith

TROY, N.Y. (WRGB) — Two Lansingburgh Central School District teachers are getting a makeover for their joint, co-teach classroom, after winning a nationwide giveaway.

According to a release, Anna Zibro and Megan Hupfl’s submission was selected from more than 500 entries sent in by K-12 educators, hoping to win $40,000 worth of KI furniture to bring their dream classroom or library to life.

“Amid a record number of submissions, each of this year’s finalists stood out for their creative, thoughtful designs,” KI Vice President of Education Markets Bryan Ballegeer said. “Their submissions exemplify their dedication to their students and deep understanding of how learning environments impact the student experience.”

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Twelve finalists were grouped into three regional categories for classroom entries and one for library entries. Third-grade teacher Zibro was the only finalist from New York, ultimately winning the giveaway after a public vote.

“We teach at a Title I classroom here in Lansingburgh,” Zibro said. “In our classroom, since we are co-teach, we have students with special education needs, as well as general education needs. Being in a Title I school means that our students face many obstacles outside of school daily.”

Zupfil is a special education teacher. She said the pair also took the students’ wish lists into consideration when submitting their proposal.

“We believe that each child deserves a space that feels safe, welcoming, and that can meet their diverse needs,” she said.

Zibro said she and Hupfl put together their submission for the giveaway after hearing about the competition from the district superintendent.

Zibro and Hupfl submitted this design for the classroom makeover. (Courtesy: KI)

“By getting these tables, our students would learn not only how to work with partners, but [also] develop those social and emotional skills that we are working on heavily in third grade,” Zibro said. “We also have options for students to have the mobile desks, and they would be able to sit and stand. They would probably be used for students who need a little bit more wiggle room when we are teaching whole-group lessons.”

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Zibro added that the new classroom design will help with engagement and varying student needs, as the plan details spaces for hands-on learning, as well as a quiet area for those who need the calm. Moreover, there will be a flex space, white boards, and seating for small-group instruction.

“I currently employ a mix of direct instruction, inquiry-based learning, and project-based assessments. The new design supports these methods by providing adaptable spaces that facilitate small group discussions, independent projects, and whole-class instruction. It also encourages the use of multimedia resources and flexible layouts that can be easily reconfigured for different teaching strategies. Additionally, the design allows me to incorporate more hands-on learning opportunities, such as science experiments or art projects, by having easily accessible materials and designated spaces,” Zibro said. “The current environment has a significant impact on student wellness; a cluttered or rigid classroom can lead to stress and disengagement. The new design aims to create a welcoming, organized, and inspiring atmosphere. Features like natural lighting, calming colors, and areas for movement will promote a sense of well-being and connection among students. I also plan to include mindfulness and relaxation zones where students can take breaks to recharge.”

A spokesperson told CBS6 that the furniture will be delivered and set up some time between now and February.

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