The UpGrade system puts bodies and minds in motion, transforming the common classroom to an active learning space. #keepmoving
This project will only be funded if at least $45,000 is pledged by .
*Purchase one UpGrade and receive a second system free.
The UpGrade™ is an independent learning station designed to bring motion to the classroom. As an answer to the growing demand for "active learning spaces," the UpGrade™ system provides a simple solution for teachers who want to change the flow of their classrooms, providing students the option to get out of their desks and into more comfortable positions.
The "Classroom Upgrade™ System" includes three of our patent-pending motion platforms we call "Grades," and one adjustable-height task table. The system is not a desk replacement - it serves as an immediate complement to any classroom, home study area, waiting room, or office environment.
For the first 300 Systems purchased on KickStarter, a second system will be donated to the school of your choice or to a school designated through the non-profit, standupkids.org.
Contrary to traditional classroom practices...Research is proving that physical movement influences attention, speech, balance and coordination. It also enhances focus, memory, and cognitive flexibility - the tools needed for improving academic performance. (Four Growing Trends for Active Learning Spaces, March 14, 2016, SchoolSpecialty-com)
"It's very clear that your brain works better when you're moving." (Erin Dacy: Stand Up Kids, March 25, 2016, ABC)
Third party testing validated that the Grade increased kids' heart rates by 14.5% while maintaining a similar cognitive performance when compared to sitting.
Our motion-based learning platform is called a Grade™. It's designed to generate a range of motion in the standing position, subtly keeping the body in a state of flow. The Grade can be purchased independently, or as part of the "Homework" or "Classroom" UpGrade™ Systems.
For the first 300 UpGrade Systems purchased on KickStarter, we're matching every purchase of the UpGrade System* with a second system, free. Donate it to the school of your choice, or let our non-profit partner, StandupKids.org ensure the matching system goes to a school dedicated to creating healthier/more active lifestyles for our children.
*Includes the Homework UpGrade System, the Classroom UpGrade System, and the "Office UpGrade" System.
All KickStarter products around the UpGrade™ System are manufactured in the USA with environmentally sensitive materials.
Our task table has a 36" satin-white finish table top to accommodate three individuals. All systems include an integrated foot rest and single lever hydraulic lift adjustability and comes in two different sizes from 30-42" (for K-6) or 40"-52. The base of the table is extended for added stability and includes rubber-protected floor contact points.
The Grade's frame is partially made from recycled HDPE (like old milk jugs). The top deck is composed of rubber, and the entire product is recyclable, not that it will find its way outside the classroom anytime soon.
Everyone can benefit from movement in places that are otherwise sedentary. While the UpGrade™ System provides a means of transforming the common classroom, it's equally adept in your home study area, the waiting room, or your office. And for kids who spend way too many hours on a gaming system, the Grade™ provides a perfect alternative to the couch. Some families (early beta testers of our product) have even mandated their kids can only game if they're doing so on a Grade™.
Our mission at FluidStance® is to set the world in motion, so rest assured, our products are manufactured for all shapes and sizes. The initial launch of the UpGrade™ is focused on children, but we're already developing the larger scale version, a 40-52" inch adjustable table that includes 3 Grades with upgraded cork top decks and higher weight limits. By purchasing a system for your office, you'll be donating one additional system to a classroom in need.
"Studies show that, on average, children's grades improve 10 percent to 15 percent in active classrooms. The research also shows that "standing" desks can help fight childhood obesity and attention disorders." (Texas A&M University/The State Journal-Register, March 23, 2016)
"Recess times have shortened due to increasing educational demands, and children rarely play outdoors due to parental fears, liability issues, and the hectic schedules of modern-day society. Let's face it: Children are not nearly moving enough, and it is really starting to become a problem." (Why So Many Kids Can't Sit Still in Class, July 8, 2015, The Washington Post)
Over the course of the last year, we've provided teachers with early versions of our motion-based platforms and tracked their progress.
Ashley Von Hatten, The Studio School, Northglenn, CO: "it has been amazing having it in class (both for myself and students). I think it is very accessible and easy to use for kindergarten age students-and they love it! Several of my "wigglier" students have tried it during our group learning time and it was a fantastic tool for focusing them and helping to center them."
Linda Dudley, Red Canyon High School, Eagle, CO: "The boards have been great for my students – especially my very “active”learners or ADD/ADHD learners. I have seen an increase in their stamina, focus, and attention while they have been on the boards!"
While we have used feasibility testing and prototypes to validate our design, there are inherent risks in the development process to see how materials come together and at what costs. Some components may need to change as we get deeper into commercialization. Our goal is to maintain quality products built in the USA, but some circumstances may require a single component be sourced elsewhere due to cost or availability. We've consistently designed and manufactured products in our home state of California, and we'll do everything we can to maintain our brand values in this regard.
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