SEF awards a record $12,778 in Teacher Grants
for the 2021-2022 school year
The board of the Solon Education Foundation is pleased to announce the SEF Teacher Grant recipients for this school year.
Twenty-three grant applications were funded in full.
This brings the SEF teacher grant funding historical total to more than $105K since 2003.
Twenty-three grant applications were funded in full.
This brings the SEF teacher grant funding historical total to more than $105K since 2003.
Elise Arneson, Lakeview Kindergarten teacher
$191.53
While the pandemic has faced the Solon school district with many challenges, it has also forced us to think outside the box to develop creative ways for students to access learning. One of these advancements made by the district included the implementation of Seesaw for each student. Seesaw allows for students to do activities created by the teacher on an iPad, and that activity can easily be shared with parents. I am asking the Solon Education Foundation for $191.53 to purchase an Apple TV for my classroom. An Apple TV is a small box that helps connect devices, such as an iPad, to a projector. With an Apple TV, student's can easily share the work they have done on an iPad, to the whole class. This would have a tremendous impact on all my students in many areas of learning. Two areas I am most excited to use the Apple TV would include Literacy and Math. In literacy, the Fountas and Pinnell curriculum we use often follows the “Teach, Apply, Share” format. I currently have my students apply their learning through a Seesaw activity created to match the learning from the lesson. However, this makes the sharing portion of the lesson difficult, as currently students only have the option to talk about their application activity. Using the Apple TV, Students would be able to project their activity to the large screen, and share their learning with the class. I also plan to use this same format for math Seesaw activities, where students would have the opportunity to share their math learning. Thank you for your consideration for this grant, and helping teachers by providing opportunities to enhance student learning! https://www.apple.com/shop/buy-tv/apple-tv-4k/32gb
$191.53
While the pandemic has faced the Solon school district with many challenges, it has also forced us to think outside the box to develop creative ways for students to access learning. One of these advancements made by the district included the implementation of Seesaw for each student. Seesaw allows for students to do activities created by the teacher on an iPad, and that activity can easily be shared with parents. I am asking the Solon Education Foundation for $191.53 to purchase an Apple TV for my classroom. An Apple TV is a small box that helps connect devices, such as an iPad, to a projector. With an Apple TV, student's can easily share the work they have done on an iPad, to the whole class. This would have a tremendous impact on all my students in many areas of learning. Two areas I am most excited to use the Apple TV would include Literacy and Math. In literacy, the Fountas and Pinnell curriculum we use often follows the “Teach, Apply, Share” format. I currently have my students apply their learning through a Seesaw activity created to match the learning from the lesson. However, this makes the sharing portion of the lesson difficult, as currently students only have the option to talk about their application activity. Using the Apple TV, Students would be able to project their activity to the large screen, and share their learning with the class. I also plan to use this same format for math Seesaw activities, where students would have the opportunity to share their math learning. Thank you for your consideration for this grant, and helping teachers by providing opportunities to enhance student learning! https://www.apple.com/shop/buy-tv/apple-tv-4k/32gb
Ken Beck, SHS Physics teacher
$560
This grant is sponsored by the Solon Math + Science Boosters
As the state of Iowa has adopted the Next Generation Science Standards, the high school science department has required chemistry and physics for all students. One area that is lacking as we build this new curriculum is electricity. In order to teach electricity to all, the CASTLE (Capacitor-Aided System for Teaching and Learning Electricity) program has kits for use in the classroom. This grant would be able to fund purchase enough equipment for 8 groups of students to use in the classroom.
$560
This grant is sponsored by the Solon Math + Science Boosters
As the state of Iowa has adopted the Next Generation Science Standards, the high school science department has required chemistry and physics for all students. One area that is lacking as we build this new curriculum is electricity. In order to teach electricity to all, the CASTLE (Capacitor-Aided System for Teaching and Learning Electricity) program has kits for use in the classroom. This grant would be able to fund purchase enough equipment for 8 groups of students to use in the classroom.
Andrea Dibble, Lakeview 1st Grade teacher
$450
This grant is sponsored by the Solon Math + Science Boosters
Thank you, Solon Education Foundation, for all you do for our students and staff here at Solon. We are so lucky to have you all constantly supporting us. This year, I’m asking for some STEM materials for our classroom. I’d like to re-imagine indoor recess. Often the students look for things to build and design during indoor recess. They argue over our only set of magna-tiles. The old indoor recess favorites would still be offered, but I’d love to incorporate more design and building into indoor recess. These materials would also carry over into our classroom activities. We enjoy doing STEM challenges in 1E. For example we build houses that the Big Bad Wolf can’t blow down (with our trusty hairdryer). I imagine our first graders being more intentional in their planning and design with all the challenges since they’d be familiar with the materials. I have often asked parents to donate STEM materials such as popsicle sticks, straws, etc.; but these materials are too much to ask a parent to provide. These also will allow for bigger projects that last for days and can be reused! First graders learn with their hands, their heads, and their hearts. They love to work together and to talk through strategy. I look forward to listening and watching as they explore and learn together.
$450
This grant is sponsored by the Solon Math + Science Boosters
Thank you, Solon Education Foundation, for all you do for our students and staff here at Solon. We are so lucky to have you all constantly supporting us. This year, I’m asking for some STEM materials for our classroom. I’d like to re-imagine indoor recess. Often the students look for things to build and design during indoor recess. They argue over our only set of magna-tiles. The old indoor recess favorites would still be offered, but I’d love to incorporate more design and building into indoor recess. These materials would also carry over into our classroom activities. We enjoy doing STEM challenges in 1E. For example we build houses that the Big Bad Wolf can’t blow down (with our trusty hairdryer). I imagine our first graders being more intentional in their planning and design with all the challenges since they’d be familiar with the materials. I have often asked parents to donate STEM materials such as popsicle sticks, straws, etc.; but these materials are too much to ask a parent to provide. These also will allow for bigger projects that last for days and can be reused! First graders learn with their hands, their heads, and their hearts. They love to work together and to talk through strategy. I look forward to listening and watching as they explore and learn together.
Keith Duster, SHS Building Trades Instructor
$768.90
This grant request would fund the purchase of a RealCareer Electrical Wiring Kit and accompanying curriculum to be used in our Construction Material Processing classes here at Solon High School, starting as soon as this fall and continuing to future courses. This purchase will allow students to design, wire and test electrical circuits as they would be used in the building trades. Additional 'refill' kits would be purchased as needed with curriculum funds for future classes as needed. Adding some exposure to building electrical circuits in our coursework is another way to expand student experience in the trades. These kits allow that to happen in a safe, effective way. Thanks for your consideration. Website: https://www.realityworks.com/product/realcareer-electrical-wiring-kit/
$768.90
This grant request would fund the purchase of a RealCareer Electrical Wiring Kit and accompanying curriculum to be used in our Construction Material Processing classes here at Solon High School, starting as soon as this fall and continuing to future courses. This purchase will allow students to design, wire and test electrical circuits as they would be used in the building trades. Additional 'refill' kits would be purchased as needed with curriculum funds for future classes as needed. Adding some exposure to building electrical circuits in our coursework is another way to expand student experience in the trades. These kits allow that to happen in a safe, effective way. Thanks for your consideration. Website: https://www.realityworks.com/product/realcareer-electrical-wiring-kit/
Kate Gordon, SMS 8th grade ELA teacher
$500
This is the third year I've requested funds to fill the book shelves of my classroom. Walking into my room, you will see many books on my shelves (mostly in part to the past two generous grants I've received - thank you again!!) but just like anything, there are always new things being released. Kids read more if they are invested, and one way to invest them is by letting them make the decisions. I'm asking for funds to purchase student selected texts for my classroom. Often times there are great series or new releases that the library has, but the wait list is several students long. New books are also very expensive. By having the grant and having copies in my own classroom, we are keeping books in our kids' hands. I truly believe that SEF has directly helped our students meet the 40 Book Challenge the past two years by helping their ELA teachers have more books for them to choose from. Ordering and receiving new books has been one of the biggest highlights my students have mentioned. They can't wait to dedicate the book to the classroom and share about it with their classmates. Thank you for considering filling this grant and for all of the time you donate for our kids at SCSD.
$500
This is the third year I've requested funds to fill the book shelves of my classroom. Walking into my room, you will see many books on my shelves (mostly in part to the past two generous grants I've received - thank you again!!) but just like anything, there are always new things being released. Kids read more if they are invested, and one way to invest them is by letting them make the decisions. I'm asking for funds to purchase student selected texts for my classroom. Often times there are great series or new releases that the library has, but the wait list is several students long. New books are also very expensive. By having the grant and having copies in my own classroom, we are keeping books in our kids' hands. I truly believe that SEF has directly helped our students meet the 40 Book Challenge the past two years by helping their ELA teachers have more books for them to choose from. Ordering and receiving new books has been one of the biggest highlights my students have mentioned. They can't wait to dedicate the book to the classroom and share about it with their classmates. Thank you for considering filling this grant and for all of the time you donate for our kids at SCSD.
Stephanie Hoeper, SMS 7th Grade ELA teacher
$400
One of our 7th grade ELA goals is to create lifelong reading habits with our students. Having great books at students’ fingertips is a key tool for moving kids toward this goal. While we have a variety of options in our media center, current choices available right in our classrooms provide added convenience and help create a sense of community and shared ownership. I would like to use this money to purchase new books students request throughout the year that are not already available on our shelves, allowing us to better engage students with fresh and relevant reading choices.
$400
One of our 7th grade ELA goals is to create lifelong reading habits with our students. Having great books at students’ fingertips is a key tool for moving kids toward this goal. While we have a variety of options in our media center, current choices available right in our classrooms provide added convenience and help create a sense of community and shared ownership. I would like to use this money to purchase new books students request throughout the year that are not already available on our shelves, allowing us to better engage students with fresh and relevant reading choices.
Jan Johnson, Lakeview 2nd Grade teacher
$500
The Solon Community School District has prioritized Social Emotional Learning. Students in these current times, come to school with more emotional needs. Our 2nd grade team would like to purchase "self care" items to provide our students activities that will help them deal with the stressors and situations they encounter throughout their day.
$500
The Solon Community School District has prioritized Social Emotional Learning. Students in these current times, come to school with more emotional needs. Our 2nd grade team would like to purchase "self care" items to provide our students activities that will help them deal with the stressors and situations they encounter throughout their day.
Todd Kopecky, SHS Social Studies teacher/Octagon sponsor
$500
The Octagon Club of Solon recently paid $4000 to install 4 metal poles and a shade sail covering over a concrete patio. This space is meant to be used as a place for students to congregate and also as a place for classes to meet on good weather day. Planter boxes placed at each corner of the square patio concrete would add to and help enhance the space newly created for students. These boxes would be constructed by the Solon shop classes and maintained by the Solon botany classes. Octagon would also match any funds provided for the construction of these planter boxes.
$500
The Octagon Club of Solon recently paid $4000 to install 4 metal poles and a shade sail covering over a concrete patio. This space is meant to be used as a place for students to congregate and also as a place for classes to meet on good weather day. Planter boxes placed at each corner of the square patio concrete would add to and help enhance the space newly created for students. These boxes would be constructed by the Solon shop classes and maintained by the Solon botany classes. Octagon would also match any funds provided for the construction of these planter boxes.
Janelle Kerkove, SHS Math teacher
1646.94
Since not all students plan to continue math beyond the required Algebra 2 course it seems wasteful to have them purchase a graphing calculator. We would be able to share the single classroom set of 10 when the need occurs. Eventually, we would like to have a set in each of the four classrooms. If funding would allow for more than one set please multiply the above requested amount by the number possible. We just wanted to make sure everyone had an opportunity to get what they may need or want first. The color model is slightly more, but would be helpful when solving systems of equations or inequalities. These also work great when wanting to model data to find the line of best fit. These would be strictly for classroom use. We do have others that we 'check out' to students in need. As that supply lessons we have a greater need for classroom use only calculators.
www.amazon.com/Texas-Instruments-Teachers-Graphing-Calculator/dp/B00TFYYM6A/ref=pd_bxgy_img_1/132-1999151-7032234
1646.94
Since not all students plan to continue math beyond the required Algebra 2 course it seems wasteful to have them purchase a graphing calculator. We would be able to share the single classroom set of 10 when the need occurs. Eventually, we would like to have a set in each of the four classrooms. If funding would allow for more than one set please multiply the above requested amount by the number possible. We just wanted to make sure everyone had an opportunity to get what they may need or want first. The color model is slightly more, but would be helpful when solving systems of equations or inequalities. These also work great when wanting to model data to find the line of best fit. These would be strictly for classroom use. We do have others that we 'check out' to students in need. As that supply lessons we have a greater need for classroom use only calculators.
www.amazon.com/Texas-Instruments-Teachers-Graphing-Calculator/dp/B00TFYYM6A/ref=pd_bxgy_img_1/132-1999151-7032234
Emily Korth, SMS Student Success Coordinator/Blended Learning Coach
$288
Formative is a web-based app that allows teachers to create digital formative assignments for their students. This allows teachers to provide multiple ways for students to practice the concepts and material and to demonstrate their understanding of the information. Teachers are also able to provide individualized feedback to each student based on their performance. As math teachers, we have been looking for online resources that fit the standard for personalized learning, and Go Formative provides many different options to help us reach that goal. There are multiple ways for students to show their understanding of the math standards - for example, students can easily input equations, show their work, create graphs, and categorize information. As educators, it provides a dashboard for us to monitor student growth and highlight students who need additional help in certain areas. Over the last few weeks, we have already found success with using this Go Formative resource and the free premium trial provided; especially when some students are quarantined at home, we have found that Go Formative allows us to monitor student growth whether they are at school in-person or at home. Additionally, by applying for a Small Team License, we are both saving money and building in more ways to collaborate as a math team. By following this link: https://goformative.com/pricing you are able to see the price differences (including the savings of buying an annual package instead of a monthly one, as well as the differences between individual teacher premium prices and small group cost), as well as the various features provided at each level. Our math team believes that the Go Formative resource will be highly valuable and helpful for the success of our students, and look forward to developing our lessons with this resource in mind. Thank you for your consideration.
$288
Formative is a web-based app that allows teachers to create digital formative assignments for their students. This allows teachers to provide multiple ways for students to practice the concepts and material and to demonstrate their understanding of the information. Teachers are also able to provide individualized feedback to each student based on their performance. As math teachers, we have been looking for online resources that fit the standard for personalized learning, and Go Formative provides many different options to help us reach that goal. There are multiple ways for students to show their understanding of the math standards - for example, students can easily input equations, show their work, create graphs, and categorize information. As educators, it provides a dashboard for us to monitor student growth and highlight students who need additional help in certain areas. Over the last few weeks, we have already found success with using this Go Formative resource and the free premium trial provided; especially when some students are quarantined at home, we have found that Go Formative allows us to monitor student growth whether they are at school in-person or at home. Additionally, by applying for a Small Team License, we are both saving money and building in more ways to collaborate as a math team. By following this link: https://goformative.com/pricing you are able to see the price differences (including the savings of buying an annual package instead of a monthly one, as well as the differences between individual teacher premium prices and small group cost), as well as the various features provided at each level. Our math team believes that the Go Formative resource will be highly valuable and helpful for the success of our students, and look forward to developing our lessons with this resource in mind. Thank you for your consideration.
Kearce Lindner, SMS 6th Grade ELA teacher
$500
This year I am requesting money to bust up and bring new life into my classroom library. I love our Lucy Calkins Units curriculum and one of the key foundational pieces of this curriculum is a well stocked classroom library. We were very blessed to have the school district purchase a great amount of new titles a couple of years ago. During this time the books have been well loved, and many new titles have been written. I would love to get a chance to put the titles that are the most exciting and relevant to my 6th graders in their hands. The amount of use my classroom library has seen is wonderful. It is so fun to watch the kids get so excited over a new book, and talk about those books to me and peers. I hope to see that same excitement in my classroom this year and your approval of funds can make that happen.
$500
This year I am requesting money to bust up and bring new life into my classroom library. I love our Lucy Calkins Units curriculum and one of the key foundational pieces of this curriculum is a well stocked classroom library. We were very blessed to have the school district purchase a great amount of new titles a couple of years ago. During this time the books have been well loved, and many new titles have been written. I would love to get a chance to put the titles that are the most exciting and relevant to my 6th graders in their hands. The amount of use my classroom library has seen is wonderful. It is so fun to watch the kids get so excited over a new book, and talk about those books to me and peers. I hope to see that same excitement in my classroom this year and your approval of funds can make that happen.
Ivy Nielsen, SHS ELA teacher
$500
The English Language Arts department is continuing its initiative to improve literacy by offering students more choice in their reading. Classroom libraries have been shown to increase the amount of reading students do. All the core ELA courses offer students Silent Sustained Reading time in class. We order most of our books through Amazon with assistance from Amanda Stahle and input from students.
$500
The English Language Arts department is continuing its initiative to improve literacy by offering students more choice in their reading. Classroom libraries have been shown to increase the amount of reading students do. All the core ELA courses offer students Silent Sustained Reading time in class. We order most of our books through Amazon with assistance from Amanda Stahle and input from students.
Jennifer Noonan, SMS ELA teacher
$500
Reading is a foundational skill for leading a literate life. An important goal in my classroom is to maintain a reading habit in the busy lives of Solon students. Research shows that availability of books is a major motivating factor to get teens to read. One way I attempt for student's to have access and choice in reading is through our classroom library. For the past few years, SEF has generously continued to grant my request for funding to be used to enable students to immediately order books they want to read. This allowed students choice in selecting books and also received them quickly which has been extremely motivating!! My Twitter feed from last year shares examples of this in action. Typically, I use Amazon to order the books as the shipping happens quickly, but I do look for the best pricing of the requested titles. Funding for this request is always a struggle, especially with all that has been happening in our world, so I would sincerely appreciate SEF considering my request again to make this possible for my current 8th grade readers. This project would continue throughout the 2021-22 school year. I sincerely appreciate your consideration once again!
$500
Reading is a foundational skill for leading a literate life. An important goal in my classroom is to maintain a reading habit in the busy lives of Solon students. Research shows that availability of books is a major motivating factor to get teens to read. One way I attempt for student's to have access and choice in reading is through our classroom library. For the past few years, SEF has generously continued to grant my request for funding to be used to enable students to immediately order books they want to read. This allowed students choice in selecting books and also received them quickly which has been extremely motivating!! My Twitter feed from last year shares examples of this in action. Typically, I use Amazon to order the books as the shipping happens quickly, but I do look for the best pricing of the requested titles. Funding for this request is always a struggle, especially with all that has been happening in our world, so I would sincerely appreciate SEF considering my request again to make this possible for my current 8th grade readers. This project would continue throughout the 2021-22 school year. I sincerely appreciate your consideration once again!
Heather Pentico, SIS and SMS Counselor
$600
I am requesting the funds to provide each classroom, the office and nurses office with a cart that has emotional regulation tools on it. The idea is that we provide a calm down area where students can go when they feel overwhelmed or upset. The purpose is to provide a safe place where students can practice self-regulation skills, learn coping strategies and work to calm down to return to the classroom. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08CV55FJ8/ref=twister_B07TKDMD74?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
$600
I am requesting the funds to provide each classroom, the office and nurses office with a cart that has emotional regulation tools on it. The idea is that we provide a calm down area where students can go when they feel overwhelmed or upset. The purpose is to provide a safe place where students can practice self-regulation skills, learn coping strategies and work to calm down to return to the classroom. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08CV55FJ8/ref=twister_B07TKDMD74?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Heather Pentico, SIS and SMS Counselor
$500
This summer I started a resource area in my office for SMS students and families. Some of the items I am filling the shelves with are magazine articles, student novels, parent resource books, therapy manipulative (i.e. putty, legos, fidgets, worry stones), and journals. I have a great start, but I would love to expand these resources for the kids I work with. The need for social/emotional support is so important, and I see students with a wide range of needs. I would love for them to identify with a character in a book, read an article that helps them articulate their feelings, or even helps them identify feelings. I want to offer a peaceful place for them to work out feelings and let some stress go with putty or play dough. As they leave my office ready to go back to class, I would love to send them off with a fidget or a worry stone, so they have something to help them focus. Thank you for your consideration of my request.
$500
This summer I started a resource area in my office for SMS students and families. Some of the items I am filling the shelves with are magazine articles, student novels, parent resource books, therapy manipulative (i.e. putty, legos, fidgets, worry stones), and journals. I have a great start, but I would love to expand these resources for the kids I work with. The need for social/emotional support is so important, and I see students with a wide range of needs. I would love for them to identify with a character in a book, read an article that helps them articulate their feelings, or even helps them identify feelings. I want to offer a peaceful place for them to work out feelings and let some stress go with putty or play dough. As they leave my office ready to go back to class, I would love to send them off with a fidget or a worry stone, so they have something to help them focus. Thank you for your consideration of my request.
Dawn Posekany, SHS Science teacher
$550
I continue to search for hands-on activities that can be used to support the anatomy and physiology curriculum for students. Science Take-Out kits provide a variety of simulations, labs, and hands-on models for students to take a more active role in understanding body functions. The bundle supported by the SEF last year was a big hit! Two kits I have my eye for this year are diagnosing diabetes (https://www.sciencetakeout.com/product/diagnosing-diabetes-group/) and pathogens, antibodies & vaccines. (https://www.sciencetakeout.com/product/pathogens-antibodies-and-vaccines-group/) I am requesting $550 (includes shipping costs). This amount would cover twenty unassembled kits for each topic. Please let me know if you have any questions. Thanks for your consideration!
$550
I continue to search for hands-on activities that can be used to support the anatomy and physiology curriculum for students. Science Take-Out kits provide a variety of simulations, labs, and hands-on models for students to take a more active role in understanding body functions. The bundle supported by the SEF last year was a big hit! Two kits I have my eye for this year are diagnosing diabetes (https://www.sciencetakeout.com/product/diagnosing-diabetes-group/) and pathogens, antibodies & vaccines. (https://www.sciencetakeout.com/product/pathogens-antibodies-and-vaccines-group/) I am requesting $550 (includes shipping costs). This amount would cover twenty unassembled kits for each topic. Please let me know if you have any questions. Thanks for your consideration!
Dawn Posekany, SHS Science teacher
$482.90
Brief review: We have found two lab activities to engage students in Zoology classes at the high school. One is called "Sea Otter Forensics" where students conduct lab tests and follow a threat to determine what caused the death of sea otters. The other is called "The Use of Animals for Medical Testing." This has students consider which animals should be used to test the safety and effectiveness of NicoBlock, a fictitious smoking cessation drug. Students compare the human nervous system with the nervous systems of three animals (mice, cats, and baboons). They also explore cost factors and ethical issues involved in animal testing. https://www.sciencetakeout.com/product/sea-otter-forensics-group/https://www.sciencetakeout.com/product/use-of-animals-for-medical-testing-group/ Purchase of the original activities by the SEF makes it more manageable for our budget to afford the refills in the future. Thank you!
$482.90
Brief review: We have found two lab activities to engage students in Zoology classes at the high school. One is called "Sea Otter Forensics" where students conduct lab tests and follow a threat to determine what caused the death of sea otters. The other is called "The Use of Animals for Medical Testing." This has students consider which animals should be used to test the safety and effectiveness of NicoBlock, a fictitious smoking cessation drug. Students compare the human nervous system with the nervous systems of three animals (mice, cats, and baboons). They also explore cost factors and ethical issues involved in animal testing. https://www.sciencetakeout.com/product/sea-otter-forensics-group/https://www.sciencetakeout.com/product/use-of-animals-for-medical-testing-group/ Purchase of the original activities by the SEF makes it more manageable for our budget to afford the refills in the future. Thank you!
Dawn Posekany, SHS Science teacher
$600
This grant is sponsored by the Solon Math + Science Boosters
Students have benefited from collaborations with each other and our community through a community book read and discussion for several years at SHS. I hope to continue this amazing experience again this year. It is such an unique opportunity for students to showcase their thinking with our community members. I have not yet made up my mind on a book. Currently, the two frontrunners are "Lakewood" by Megan Giddings and "The Sixth Extinction" by Elizabeth Kolbert. I will be working with our district media specialist, Sara Pflughaupt and SHS media associate March Sutton for this project. I am hopeful to receive funds to provide copies of books for the classes, community members, and interested teachers and parents. I anticipate a need of 40-60 copies at a cost of about $600. There is a possibility we will work with another class for this project affecting the number of books needed. Any unused funds would be returned.
$600
This grant is sponsored by the Solon Math + Science Boosters
Students have benefited from collaborations with each other and our community through a community book read and discussion for several years at SHS. I hope to continue this amazing experience again this year. It is such an unique opportunity for students to showcase their thinking with our community members. I have not yet made up my mind on a book. Currently, the two frontrunners are "Lakewood" by Megan Giddings and "The Sixth Extinction" by Elizabeth Kolbert. I will be working with our district media specialist, Sara Pflughaupt and SHS media associate March Sutton for this project. I am hopeful to receive funds to provide copies of books for the classes, community members, and interested teachers and parents. I anticipate a need of 40-60 copies at a cost of about $600. There is a possibility we will work with another class for this project affecting the number of books needed. Any unused funds would be returned.
Jessica Pugh, SIS/SMS Art teacher
$1209.57
I am so excited about the opportunity to bring my love for art education to my students in Solon. As I work to build and add to the art curriculum for SIS and SMS in my first year as an educator, I love the idea that the district is willing to support me with a potential grant. The facilities that I work in are beautiful and very well equipped for most of the projects I have planned for our young artists. Some of my most favorite projects as a learner were working with paint and inks. I want to bring those projects to our students this year. To help preserve their work from class to class, I could use drying racks. The needs for each building are a little different in size, but both buildings would benefit from their own. I can’t wait to fill the hallways of our schools and eventually our families’ homes with these keepsakes, and a beautiful painting will do just that. MS: https://www.dickblick.com/items/awt-portable-drying-rack-20-x-26-50-shelves/ SIS: https://www.dickblick.com/products/back-to-back-table-rack/
$1209.57
I am so excited about the opportunity to bring my love for art education to my students in Solon. As I work to build and add to the art curriculum for SIS and SMS in my first year as an educator, I love the idea that the district is willing to support me with a potential grant. The facilities that I work in are beautiful and very well equipped for most of the projects I have planned for our young artists. Some of my most favorite projects as a learner were working with paint and inks. I want to bring those projects to our students this year. To help preserve their work from class to class, I could use drying racks. The needs for each building are a little different in size, but both buildings would benefit from their own. I can’t wait to fill the hallways of our schools and eventually our families’ homes with these keepsakes, and a beautiful painting will do just that. MS: https://www.dickblick.com/items/awt-portable-drying-rack-20-x-26-50-shelves/ SIS: https://www.dickblick.com/products/back-to-back-table-rack/
Stephanie Reiter, Lakeview 1st Grade teacher
$240.87
In first grade, students are encouraged daily to independently read a variety of text during readers workshop. I would like to support my first graders reading by providing big books students can use to practice their independent reading. These big books would be a great addition to the classroom library. https://www.lakeshorelearning.com/products/books/big-books/N/1479803124/page-1/sort-best/num-24/?update-filter=3890140476
$240.87
In first grade, students are encouraged daily to independently read a variety of text during readers workshop. I would like to support my first graders reading by providing big books students can use to practice their independent reading. These big books would be a great addition to the classroom library. https://www.lakeshorelearning.com/products/books/big-books/N/1479803124/page-1/sort-best/num-24/?update-filter=3890140476
Carol Ann Richards, SHS Special Education
$174.69
Gaining independence, self reliance, and work experience is part of the curriculum for High School students from the Learning Center . These students work on learning transition skills to prepare them for living, learning, and working in the world after their experience at Solon High School. This grant proposal is to start a “Special Spartans” business entrepreneurship group. Currently, there are students who have the skills to create and make products that could be resold at local businesses. One product would be a fire starter kit. Students would assemble a fire starter bag by putting shredded paper and candle wax into a small labeled paper bag. These bags are self contained packaged fire starters to help ignite campfires or fires in fireplaces. The second product for resale would be to create postcards and greeting cards for resale. Grant money would allow for the purchasing of initial start up supplies for both these products. Over time, the cost of the supplies would be covered by the sales of the students’ products. Starting a “Special Spartans” business group would create opportunities for students to develop many skills. Design, goal setting, budgeting, problem solving, technology, and work stamina will be encouraged. Students will find themselves using communication skills while working with peers and adults through the assembling and selling process. Many positive outcomes are possible for students and the community by creating and selling “Special Spartans'' products.
$174.69
Gaining independence, self reliance, and work experience is part of the curriculum for High School students from the Learning Center . These students work on learning transition skills to prepare them for living, learning, and working in the world after their experience at Solon High School. This grant proposal is to start a “Special Spartans” business entrepreneurship group. Currently, there are students who have the skills to create and make products that could be resold at local businesses. One product would be a fire starter kit. Students would assemble a fire starter bag by putting shredded paper and candle wax into a small labeled paper bag. These bags are self contained packaged fire starters to help ignite campfires or fires in fireplaces. The second product for resale would be to create postcards and greeting cards for resale. Grant money would allow for the purchasing of initial start up supplies for both these products. Over time, the cost of the supplies would be covered by the sales of the students’ products. Starting a “Special Spartans” business group would create opportunities for students to develop many skills. Design, goal setting, budgeting, problem solving, technology, and work stamina will be encouraged. Students will find themselves using communication skills while working with peers and adults through the assembling and selling process. Many positive outcomes are possible for students and the community by creating and selling “Special Spartans'' products.
December 2021
Thank you to the SEF foundation. I am glad to report that last Friday we launched our first "Special Solon Spartans" sale before the pep rally at SHS.
Two students were able to sell their products to students and staff. It was a rewarding experience for everyone. The students selling their products felt accomplished, excited, and loved setting up their own shop. Through this experience, the students use communication skills and money handling skills. The funding for this project gives students more opportunities to work cooperatively with others and with the public. Students purchasing items had the opportunity to support their classmates.
The students will continue to make products and sell more again soon. Aside from handmade cards and fire starter kits, we plan to make dog toys. With the funds, they will attend Camp Courageous in Monticello for the day.
Let us know if you are in the need of some stocking stuffers!
Thanks again for your support!
Thank you to the SEF foundation. I am glad to report that last Friday we launched our first "Special Solon Spartans" sale before the pep rally at SHS.
Two students were able to sell their products to students and staff. It was a rewarding experience for everyone. The students selling their products felt accomplished, excited, and loved setting up their own shop. Through this experience, the students use communication skills and money handling skills. The funding for this project gives students more opportunities to work cooperatively with others and with the public. Students purchasing items had the opportunity to support their classmates.
The students will continue to make products and sell more again soon. Aside from handmade cards and fire starter kits, we plan to make dog toys. With the funds, they will attend Camp Courageous in Monticello for the day.
Let us know if you are in the need of some stocking stuffers!
Thanks again for your support!
Tim Sheeley, SMS/SHS STEM teacher
$600
This grant is sponsored by the Solon Math + Science Boosters
I am requesting funds to extend our STEM learning from present understandings to future applications! Competition and Choice are foci of my Design Challenge plan. Specifically I am asking for $600 to purchase a Kelvin Air-Powered Dragster Launcher with track and compressor.* (OR Kelvin Maglev track, variable power supply & keel bulk pack. $325+$145+$115= $585 ..also @$600) This track was featured on the National TV show “Malcolm in The Middle”. One huge benefit of this product is that the kids can race and race and race with no additional cost (vs. CO2 cartridge single-use products) and it allows them to learn with each iteration how to innovate their racer design by trimming weight, improving aerodynamics, etc. This module fits with our district purchase last year of a mini CNC/laser/3D-printer located at the MS to complement the larger CNC and Laser machines now at the HS. Students can model, manufacture, and compete with their own original designs using CAD software and prototyping tools. Learning LASTS when students problem solve together, and persevere in creating unique products or processes. https://kelvin.com/kelvin-kel-air-original-air-powered-dragster-launcher-with-track
$600
This grant is sponsored by the Solon Math + Science Boosters
I am requesting funds to extend our STEM learning from present understandings to future applications! Competition and Choice are foci of my Design Challenge plan. Specifically I am asking for $600 to purchase a Kelvin Air-Powered Dragster Launcher with track and compressor.* (OR Kelvin Maglev track, variable power supply & keel bulk pack. $325+$145+$115= $585 ..also @$600) This track was featured on the National TV show “Malcolm in The Middle”. One huge benefit of this product is that the kids can race and race and race with no additional cost (vs. CO2 cartridge single-use products) and it allows them to learn with each iteration how to innovate their racer design by trimming weight, improving aerodynamics, etc. This module fits with our district purchase last year of a mini CNC/laser/3D-printer located at the MS to complement the larger CNC and Laser machines now at the HS. Students can model, manufacture, and compete with their own original designs using CAD software and prototyping tools. Learning LASTS when students problem solve together, and persevere in creating unique products or processes. https://kelvin.com/kelvin-kel-air-original-air-powered-dragster-launcher-with-track
Rylee Wymer, SMS Science teacher
$515
A new initiative in the middle school and high school is the implementation of the blended learning model. This is made up of a variety of teaching and learning styles that include; direct instruction, station rotation, intervention/small group, and flipped classroom. As my science lab is very well equipped for teacher direct instruction and student partner work/exploration, I feel a horseshoe table would be a great addition for small group/intervention style instruction. I thank you for your consideration to this grant proposal. https://www.amazon.com/Horseshoe-Activity-Collaborative-Environments-Adjustable/dp/B07T3GJFX2/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=FDP%2Bhorseshoe%2Btable&qid=1632513376&sr=8-1&th=1
$515
A new initiative in the middle school and high school is the implementation of the blended learning model. This is made up of a variety of teaching and learning styles that include; direct instruction, station rotation, intervention/small group, and flipped classroom. As my science lab is very well equipped for teacher direct instruction and student partner work/exploration, I feel a horseshoe table would be a great addition for small group/intervention style instruction. I thank you for your consideration to this grant proposal. https://www.amazon.com/Horseshoe-Activity-Collaborative-Environments-Adjustable/dp/B07T3GJFX2/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=FDP%2Bhorseshoe%2Btable&qid=1632513376&sr=8-1&th=1