Gripp Grants Awarded in Spring 2007

The Foundation was able to fund four innovative programs for District 39 in the spring of 2007

World Environments Learning Lab:  This is a continued grant for Romona School's garden.  The garden features plants from many different biospheres, and a set of raised, continent-shaped gardens that will encourage geography, biomes study, cultural awareness and provides access to people of all abilities.

Disability Awareness:  This full-year program at Central School teaches students about people with different abilities.  Through hands-on activities, speakers, and classroom discussions, students will learn to understand what life is like for people with disabilities.

Central School Boys' Project:  The first student presented and directed grant!  As part of a math-extension program 12 fourth grade boys were given the assignment to design a play structure for the playground.  With the help of teachers Suzanne Goff and Jim Tingey, the students used their math skills to design and plan the project.  Now, with funding from the District 39 Educational Foundation, the boys will actually construct the playset and implement the safety training for all students at Central School.  Congratulations Boys!

Meghan Flanigan, 6th grade teacher at Highcrest Middle Schoool:  In keeping with long term goals of the district and remaining true to its commitment to support professional development, the Foundation has granted funds to Ms. Flanigan to attend a creativity workshop focusing on the role of imagination and creativity in classroom instruction.