Huron Valley Educational Foundation
2023-24 Grant Summaries
Elementary School Grants
Science of Reading (Sonya Boehm / Apollo Early Childhood Center)
Lively Letters is unique because the program teaches students to discover what they are doing with their mouths when making the letter sounds. This oral kinesthetic feature greatly improves both phonological skills and reading skills. Our populations of students are visual and kinesthetic learners; this program will allow us to better prepare them for elementary school. Students who use this program have data that shows great gains in the areas of phonemic awareness, phonetic decoding, and oral reading. This program is designed to help students with speech and language deficits, reading disorders, and those learning English as a second language.
Young Authors and Illustrators Book Grant (Lisa Antonio / Apollo Early Childhood Center)
My GSRP class will be writing and illustrating a class book (we are looking at the topic of kindness), where each child will contribute to a page in the book. Students will be excited and proud of what they have accomplished as they see the finished product. They will be authors and illustrators! Seeing their smiling faces when they receive their book and see the product of their hard work is the highlight of my school year.
Cozy Cottages (Amy Ebright / Apollo Early Childhood Center)
The Apollo Early Childhood Center is a community and district gem. The building offers daycare and preschool programs for babies, toddlers and preschool age students as well as programs for young children with disabilities through the Early On, Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) and the Severely Multiply Impaired Programs (SXI). In the Huron Valley School District, this is the first learning experience for our students, thus setting the foundation for lifelong learning. An important component of early school readiness and healthy child development includes meeting a child’s social-emotional needs. Early childhood, social-emotional skills include being able to get along and cooperate with others, manage strong feelings, focus attention, and persist at challenging tasks. These skills deserve focused attention during the pre-kindergarten years because they are critical for long-term school and life. In an effort to bridge a broad gap between preschool and high school and support the development of critical social-emotional skills in our young learners, we are partnering with Jordyn Najduk with the Huron Valley Community Coalition to create "Cozy Cottages" in all classrooms. Acquiring the "Cozy Cottages" is the final stage of this building initiative, as the Huron Valley Community Coalition is providing the inside components for the cottages.
School Wide Read Aloud - "The Secret Zoo" (Susan Black / Heritage Elementary)
This year for March is Reading Month Heritage Elementary is planning to do a school wide read aloud book, “The Secret Zoo by Bryan Chick” during the month of March. Each student (grades 2-5 will read Secret Zoo, grades PreK-1 will be given Anna Banana Monkey in the Middle) will be given a copy of the designated book. A reading schedule will be assigned and books will be sent home. The program is designed for families to read the book “together” at night. Daily questions pertaining to the book will be asked over the announcements each morning and every student will have the opportunity to be chosen to come down and choose a prize.
SEL Library (Kim Szalay / Heritage Elementary)
We are asking for funds to purchase SEL books to help build our "support", that is available to the entire staff and students at Heritage Elementary.
Per https://www.scholastic.com "Giving children the words they need to express themselves boosts confidence and self-esteem tremendously. When kids can put their feelings into words, they can begin to address them. One of the goals of social and emotional learning is creating positive relationships through support and collaborative thinking. Kindness, generosity, and empathy are learned concepts and the result of strong social awareness and interpersonal skills. SEL Books Offer Solutions for Navigating Negative Feelings."
In an article from National University, "SEL is beneficial to both children and adults, increasing self-awareness, academic achievement, and positive behaviors both in and out of the classroom. From an academic standpoint, students who participated in SEL programs saw an 11 percentile increase in their overall grades and better attendance. On a more individual level, the skills learned within an SEL program have been shown to help students better cope with emotional stress, solve problems, and avoid peer pressure to engage in harmful activities."
What's all the Buzz About (David Rega / Highland Elementary)
The pBuzz is a plastic instrument that is very similar to the trombone and is quite a bit of fun to play. The pBuzz is a great tool for not only teaching elements of our curriculum and beyond, but also in starting to develop the beginning mechanics necessary for the embouchure that brass players require. It is most appropriate to be done with 4th and 5th grade, but all students will have a chance to play them when their time comes, as these are instruments that are built to last.
CATS Play by Color (Sylvia LaPratt / Kurtz Elementary)
Our CATS kids have been playing by color with boomwhackers. The desk bells would give those students another way to express themselves. Desk bells are not as loud as the bells you shake and can be played in a more controlled way (you only tap the top of them). Our CATS students would be able to feel successful playing along to simple tunes. Sometimes students need some calming instruments or sounds. The steel tongue drum and kalimba both have therapeutic qualities and can "center" a student. I would like for our CATS students to be able to add another tool to their calming strategies.
Orff Instruments (Stephanie Dettbarn / Lakewood Elementary)
Orff instruments are the elementary version of xylophones. These instruments are often the first stepping stone to playing melodic instruments. Students get to play familiar melodies on them, but are also able to put their note reading skills to the test by playing an instrument. Orff Bass Bars provide a harmonic and rhythmic foundation to music education. They resonate and would add to our current set of Orff instruments to continue the ensemble. Even very young students can practice keeping a steady beat on one of the bass bars, while the rest of the class is singing.
The glockenspiel repair kit would allow me to fix my glockenspiels and allow students to be more successful when playing these instruments.
Increasing the Visual, Spacial and Fine Motor Abilities of Early Elementary Students (Nicole Fouty / Spring Mills Elementary)
Have you ever: Watched a student struggle to hold a pencil? Tilt their head in order to see the lines on a paper? Struggle to hold their paper still or even keep it on their desk when writing? All of these things can be very discouraging and frustrating to an early elementary age student. These are some tools that can aid students in being more successful and confident in their early start to writing. Having success at the start will promote the assurance and determination that they to can be successful even though they have different needs or challenges. Please help me lessen the gap or need and increase the success rate of students with fine motor and visual differences.
Let's Glow with Art and Music (Sylvia LaPratt / Spring Mills Elementary)
Let's get this party glowing! Art and Music will work together to create an unforgettable evening of glow-in-the-dark art and musical performances! Students will create masterpieces to be hung in the cafeteria, and they will color gloves and tape rhythm sticks to be used in the music performance. All students will prepare a short musical performance by grade level, using juggling scarves, finger lights, tennis balls, gloves, foam LED sticks, and light-up rhythm sticks to showcase various skills learned during music class. But the fun doesn't end there! The blacklights will continue to enhance our teaching and creativity!
Sensory and Classroom Dividers (Michelle Huff / Spring Mills Elementary)
The students in my classroom have special needs and though we do not use a standard curriculum, they work toward individual goals while also benefiting from frequent sensory breaks. In addition, they are young and are learning to share space with each other. The sensory table would help them learn to share space by working alongside their peers and help them with their fine motor skills by using utensils with variety of materials. The classroom dividers would allow us to offer them separate spaces, helping students distinguish between working spaces, sensory spaces, and closed/ unavailable spaces while also reducing distractions.
Middle School Grants
Bringing the Joy Back into Reading (Julie Puffer / Muir Middle School)
In her article published this March for The Atlantic, “Why Kids Aren’t Falling in Love With Reading,” author Katherine Marsh presents an argument that screens are not the sole culprit. She states that schools’ focus on technical skills and standardized testing have sapped the pleasure of reading from our students. There is an undeniable value to students being engaged, motivated readers. As a middle school ELA teacher, I will never ignore reading and writing skills instruction; however, in this project I present the argument that we can do better. We can engage students in regular, joyful reading experiences while teaching them the skills needed to be a thoughtful, critical reader.
Building Independence in Real Life (Trina Buell / Muir Middle School)
Independence is the goal for all. The paths we take and tools we utilize to reach this goal differs between individuals. The students in the three Categorical Classrooms at Muir need real life experiences to practice the life skills necessary for independence. Rarely do our students have the chance to stay away from home without depending on their families. We wish to provide our students the opportunity to attend an overnight camping trip to Camp Ohiyesa. This grant will give them the chance to experience camp with the support of the staff that works with them daily.
Creating the Community (Carrie Bradley / Muir Middle School)
Students will be spending time this year in community building activities looking for successful ways to eliminate stereotypes and judgments. The t-shirts are also all different and express our uniqueness but illustrate our connectedness. Throughout the year, the 7th grade team will work together to reach out to others and build a respect for community members and each other.
MicroWorld (Dave Browne / Oak Valley Middle School)
Last year we were fortunate enough to add some modeling components through the help of HVEF to help make our cell unit more hands on. In addition to this, our students have enjoyed the time they get with microscopes studying specimens. This grant would allow us to add to our microscope capabilities as well as add a component that would allow students to study objects and link them directly with their Chromebook. Students would have access to digital handheld microscopes that would transmit enhanced imaging on to existing district technology.
Oak Valley Treat Trunk (Roslyn Adams / Oak Valley Middle School)
The Oak Valley Treat Truck allows the students in our Autism classroom to practice their social skills in a real world setting. They are able to sell food items to staff members while working on their functional communication, social, and math skills.
Active Seating for Active Learners (Katelyn Gorny / Oak Valley Middle School)
A majority of my students have a bad case of the wiggles, no matter the time of day. Having active seating choices, or a chair fidget, would allow them to move as needed without losing focus or interrupting their peers. I have tested this theory with the limited resources I have, and found it to be successful. My hope is that, with this grant, I can allow more of my students the option to wiggle while they learn.
Sight Singing Successfully with S-Cubed (Heather Fitzpatrick / White Lake Middle School)
S-cubed is a researched based sight singing program that empowers vocal music students to reach new levels of confidence, knowledge, and music literacy skills. This program will be piloted at Milford High School and White Lake Middle School to help students increase their skills in sight singing, harmonization, and musicianship in grades 6-12.
Let's Make a Podcast! (Adam Wager / White Lake Middle School)
If only there was a way for our students to demonstrate their learning and passions in a way that’s relevant, fun AND engaging. Oh wait, there is! Podcasting is a great way to give our students an audience and purpose when showing off the learning they are doing in school. The possibilities of podcasting are endless. Whether they are interviewing authors, creating their own audiobooks, or informing the world about ancient civilizations, you can be sure that our students are learning a ton and having a blast!
Screen Printing Positive Message in Middle School (Danielle Vivio / White Lake Middle School)
Art is a powerful tool for expressing ideas and sharing personal messages. One of my goals as an art teacher is to empower my students to find their artistic voice within our community. The screen printing process allows students to reproduce artwork on a variety of surfaces like posters and t-shirts. My middle school artists will use the printmaking process as a way to communicate positivity and a growth mindset throughout our school, spreading kindness and encouragement through their artwork.
High School Grants
Empowering Harbor Women (Paige Riley / Harbor High School)
The average girl’s self-esteem peaks at about age 9, and continues to decrease from that point. Helping teenage women build life skills through social-emotional learning (SEL) is an effective way to protect their mental wellness and give them tools to thrive in and out of school. Helping young women express opinions and take ownership of issues that impact them will make them more inclined to adopt leadership positions. This grant will purchase materials for a Empowering Women's group at Harbor High School. Research based SEL curriculum and hands- on materials for activities that will increase buy in will be purchased.
Scott Armstrong (Classroom Aquarium to Empower High Risk Students in Science / Harbor High School)
The purpose of this project is to empower high-risk high school students through project-based learning, fostering job responsibility and hands-on education. Our classroom aquarium initiative not only enhances academic engagement but also nurtures a profound sense of responsibility and pride in taking care of this classroom resource. This unique educational experience will deepen student understanding in life and physical sciences while instilling teamwork, self-esteem, and a strong work ethic. Support for this initiative will make a lasting impact with our high-risk student population, instilling values that extend beyond the classroom, fostering skills and virtues that will benefit them throughout their lives.
APUSH Podcast (Colleen Durham / Lakeland High School)
Students will create a mini-podcast about a historical topic of their choosing. Students can improve their communication skills by identifying a topic, crafting an outline, and writing scripts to layout their History Podcast. They can create interviews, breakdown what is happening in "real time", tell a tale as an American storyteller, create a conversation/debate regarding a historical controversy. They can add in sound effects and background music to make their podcast come alive. They will also be encouraged to add in sensory details to make listeners "see" the history.
Robo-Buddy Phone Chargers (Isaac Perry / Lakeland High School)
Imagine you're a high school senior, getting ready to go off to college, and you've never wired anything in your life and have zero knowledge about the electrical components you use every day. Now, imagine you're in Mr. Perry's AP Computer Science class, and you have the opportunity to learn these skills while making your very own customized Robo-Buddy phone charger! This is the experience I want to offer to my students, but I can only do so with a grant. Think of how many Lakeland seniors will be able to head off to their college dorms next year with their Robo-Buddy phone charger, and how many of them will brag to their entire floor about how they made it in their amazing computer science class!
Free Voluntary Reading Library (Kristen Leslie / Lakeland High School)
I would love students to have a choice in expanding their acquisition of the Spanish language through novels created for learners of the language. Since we have switched our curriculum to be about the acquisition of the language and not the learning about the language, students have been more engaged. They are acquiring the language through the culture and high student interest stories. They aren't learning through rote memorization of thematic vocabulary. My Milford HS counterparts have had great success with their FVR library and Dr. Knudson made sure to set aside space for the WL department to create a reading center.
Anatomical Models (Emma Flynn / Milford High School)
If provided this grant, I would like a model of the brain and models involved in processing our senses including an eye, ear, etc.) to show A.P. Psychology and Intro Psychology students. The study of the brain and its processes are a major component of this course. Because the 2D images make it difficult to map out these parts and where they lie in the brain, having a 3D model would assist students in understanding the location of and function of these parts. Additionally, we learn about the scientific processes involved in sensation/perception.
Scanmarker Air Pen Scanner: A Benefit to ELA (Emily Mienkwic / Milford High School)
In my ELA classes, I have a wide variety of learners. Some are visual, some are auditory; but the majority of my students on a yearly basis are a mix of both. They require the physical copy and a voice reading that material. The Scanmarker Pen Scanner allows students to listen to the text and allows more autonomy with their learning rather than only receiving the material from the teacher. Students can repeat difficult sections, based on individual needs rather than group. This pen can easily help my students who require a little more help in the reading area of ELA.
Forging Excellence (Lori Gleason / Milford High School)
The HOT team is Forging Excellence with every robot we build! We are seeking funding for a Mark Forged Onyx One 3D printer. This cutting-edge technology will empower our students to design, prototype, and manufacture critical robot components; fostering innovation and engineering skills. It will be an invaluable resource, enabling us to compete at the highest level and ensure that our students are well-equipped for careers in STEAM. We sincerely appreciate HVEF’s support in promoting hands-on-learning, creativity, and excellence. Together, we can inspire the next generation of engineers and innovators. Forge the future with us, it’s a HOT one!
Community Grants
Art for Life (Georgia Bingham / HVCA)
The HVEF continues to support the HVCA's "Arts for Life" program. Most importantly you have helped us keep the 8th grade Watroba-Jones show going for over 20 years. After COVID closing schools, we have struggled to find an appropriate 2nd grade theater program but hoped to continue to fill that void. In addition, it's important for us to reestablish our relationship with the Apollo Center children. We hope that we can bring two shows to the school this season.
Science of Reading (Sonya Boehm / Apollo Early Childhood Center)
Lively Letters is unique because the program teaches students to discover what they are doing with their mouths when making the letter sounds. This oral kinesthetic feature greatly improves both phonological skills and reading skills. Our populations of students are visual and kinesthetic learners; this program will allow us to better prepare them for elementary school. Students who use this program have data that shows great gains in the areas of phonemic awareness, phonetic decoding, and oral reading. This program is designed to help students with speech and language deficits, reading disorders, and those learning English as a second language.
Young Authors and Illustrators Book Grant (Lisa Antonio / Apollo Early Childhood Center)
My GSRP class will be writing and illustrating a class book (we are looking at the topic of kindness), where each child will contribute to a page in the book. Students will be excited and proud of what they have accomplished as they see the finished product. They will be authors and illustrators! Seeing their smiling faces when they receive their book and see the product of their hard work is the highlight of my school year.
Cozy Cottages (Amy Ebright / Apollo Early Childhood Center)
The Apollo Early Childhood Center is a community and district gem. The building offers daycare and preschool programs for babies, toddlers and preschool age students as well as programs for young children with disabilities through the Early On, Early Childhood Special Education (ECSE) and the Severely Multiply Impaired Programs (SXI). In the Huron Valley School District, this is the first learning experience for our students, thus setting the foundation for lifelong learning. An important component of early school readiness and healthy child development includes meeting a child’s social-emotional needs. Early childhood, social-emotional skills include being able to get along and cooperate with others, manage strong feelings, focus attention, and persist at challenging tasks. These skills deserve focused attention during the pre-kindergarten years because they are critical for long-term school and life. In an effort to bridge a broad gap between preschool and high school and support the development of critical social-emotional skills in our young learners, we are partnering with Jordyn Najduk with the Huron Valley Community Coalition to create "Cozy Cottages" in all classrooms. Acquiring the "Cozy Cottages" is the final stage of this building initiative, as the Huron Valley Community Coalition is providing the inside components for the cottages.
School Wide Read Aloud - "The Secret Zoo" (Susan Black / Heritage Elementary)
This year for March is Reading Month Heritage Elementary is planning to do a school wide read aloud book, “The Secret Zoo by Bryan Chick” during the month of March. Each student (grades 2-5 will read Secret Zoo, grades PreK-1 will be given Anna Banana Monkey in the Middle) will be given a copy of the designated book. A reading schedule will be assigned and books will be sent home. The program is designed for families to read the book “together” at night. Daily questions pertaining to the book will be asked over the announcements each morning and every student will have the opportunity to be chosen to come down and choose a prize.
SEL Library (Kim Szalay / Heritage Elementary)
We are asking for funds to purchase SEL books to help build our "support", that is available to the entire staff and students at Heritage Elementary.
Per https://www.scholastic.com "Giving children the words they need to express themselves boosts confidence and self-esteem tremendously. When kids can put their feelings into words, they can begin to address them. One of the goals of social and emotional learning is creating positive relationships through support and collaborative thinking. Kindness, generosity, and empathy are learned concepts and the result of strong social awareness and interpersonal skills. SEL Books Offer Solutions for Navigating Negative Feelings."
In an article from National University, "SEL is beneficial to both children and adults, increasing self-awareness, academic achievement, and positive behaviors both in and out of the classroom. From an academic standpoint, students who participated in SEL programs saw an 11 percentile increase in their overall grades and better attendance. On a more individual level, the skills learned within an SEL program have been shown to help students better cope with emotional stress, solve problems, and avoid peer pressure to engage in harmful activities."
What's all the Buzz About (David Rega / Highland Elementary)
The pBuzz is a plastic instrument that is very similar to the trombone and is quite a bit of fun to play. The pBuzz is a great tool for not only teaching elements of our curriculum and beyond, but also in starting to develop the beginning mechanics necessary for the embouchure that brass players require. It is most appropriate to be done with 4th and 5th grade, but all students will have a chance to play them when their time comes, as these are instruments that are built to last.
CATS Play by Color (Sylvia LaPratt / Kurtz Elementary)
Our CATS kids have been playing by color with boomwhackers. The desk bells would give those students another way to express themselves. Desk bells are not as loud as the bells you shake and can be played in a more controlled way (you only tap the top of them). Our CATS students would be able to feel successful playing along to simple tunes. Sometimes students need some calming instruments or sounds. The steel tongue drum and kalimba both have therapeutic qualities and can "center" a student. I would like for our CATS students to be able to add another tool to their calming strategies.
Orff Instruments (Stephanie Dettbarn / Lakewood Elementary)
Orff instruments are the elementary version of xylophones. These instruments are often the first stepping stone to playing melodic instruments. Students get to play familiar melodies on them, but are also able to put their note reading skills to the test by playing an instrument. Orff Bass Bars provide a harmonic and rhythmic foundation to music education. They resonate and would add to our current set of Orff instruments to continue the ensemble. Even very young students can practice keeping a steady beat on one of the bass bars, while the rest of the class is singing.
The glockenspiel repair kit would allow me to fix my glockenspiels and allow students to be more successful when playing these instruments.
Increasing the Visual, Spacial and Fine Motor Abilities of Early Elementary Students (Nicole Fouty / Spring Mills Elementary)
Have you ever: Watched a student struggle to hold a pencil? Tilt their head in order to see the lines on a paper? Struggle to hold their paper still or even keep it on their desk when writing? All of these things can be very discouraging and frustrating to an early elementary age student. These are some tools that can aid students in being more successful and confident in their early start to writing. Having success at the start will promote the assurance and determination that they to can be successful even though they have different needs or challenges. Please help me lessen the gap or need and increase the success rate of students with fine motor and visual differences.
Let's Glow with Art and Music (Sylvia LaPratt / Spring Mills Elementary)
Let's get this party glowing! Art and Music will work together to create an unforgettable evening of glow-in-the-dark art and musical performances! Students will create masterpieces to be hung in the cafeteria, and they will color gloves and tape rhythm sticks to be used in the music performance. All students will prepare a short musical performance by grade level, using juggling scarves, finger lights, tennis balls, gloves, foam LED sticks, and light-up rhythm sticks to showcase various skills learned during music class. But the fun doesn't end there! The blacklights will continue to enhance our teaching and creativity!
Sensory and Classroom Dividers (Michelle Huff / Spring Mills Elementary)
The students in my classroom have special needs and though we do not use a standard curriculum, they work toward individual goals while also benefiting from frequent sensory breaks. In addition, they are young and are learning to share space with each other. The sensory table would help them learn to share space by working alongside their peers and help them with their fine motor skills by using utensils with variety of materials. The classroom dividers would allow us to offer them separate spaces, helping students distinguish between working spaces, sensory spaces, and closed/ unavailable spaces while also reducing distractions.
Middle School Grants
Bringing the Joy Back into Reading (Julie Puffer / Muir Middle School)
In her article published this March for The Atlantic, “Why Kids Aren’t Falling in Love With Reading,” author Katherine Marsh presents an argument that screens are not the sole culprit. She states that schools’ focus on technical skills and standardized testing have sapped the pleasure of reading from our students. There is an undeniable value to students being engaged, motivated readers. As a middle school ELA teacher, I will never ignore reading and writing skills instruction; however, in this project I present the argument that we can do better. We can engage students in regular, joyful reading experiences while teaching them the skills needed to be a thoughtful, critical reader.
Building Independence in Real Life (Trina Buell / Muir Middle School)
Independence is the goal for all. The paths we take and tools we utilize to reach this goal differs between individuals. The students in the three Categorical Classrooms at Muir need real life experiences to practice the life skills necessary for independence. Rarely do our students have the chance to stay away from home without depending on their families. We wish to provide our students the opportunity to attend an overnight camping trip to Camp Ohiyesa. This grant will give them the chance to experience camp with the support of the staff that works with them daily.
Creating the Community (Carrie Bradley / Muir Middle School)
Students will be spending time this year in community building activities looking for successful ways to eliminate stereotypes and judgments. The t-shirts are also all different and express our uniqueness but illustrate our connectedness. Throughout the year, the 7th grade team will work together to reach out to others and build a respect for community members and each other.
MicroWorld (Dave Browne / Oak Valley Middle School)
Last year we were fortunate enough to add some modeling components through the help of HVEF to help make our cell unit more hands on. In addition to this, our students have enjoyed the time they get with microscopes studying specimens. This grant would allow us to add to our microscope capabilities as well as add a component that would allow students to study objects and link them directly with their Chromebook. Students would have access to digital handheld microscopes that would transmit enhanced imaging on to existing district technology.
Oak Valley Treat Trunk (Roslyn Adams / Oak Valley Middle School)
The Oak Valley Treat Truck allows the students in our Autism classroom to practice their social skills in a real world setting. They are able to sell food items to staff members while working on their functional communication, social, and math skills.
Active Seating for Active Learners (Katelyn Gorny / Oak Valley Middle School)
A majority of my students have a bad case of the wiggles, no matter the time of day. Having active seating choices, or a chair fidget, would allow them to move as needed without losing focus or interrupting their peers. I have tested this theory with the limited resources I have, and found it to be successful. My hope is that, with this grant, I can allow more of my students the option to wiggle while they learn.
Sight Singing Successfully with S-Cubed (Heather Fitzpatrick / White Lake Middle School)
S-cubed is a researched based sight singing program that empowers vocal music students to reach new levels of confidence, knowledge, and music literacy skills. This program will be piloted at Milford High School and White Lake Middle School to help students increase their skills in sight singing, harmonization, and musicianship in grades 6-12.
Let's Make a Podcast! (Adam Wager / White Lake Middle School)
If only there was a way for our students to demonstrate their learning and passions in a way that’s relevant, fun AND engaging. Oh wait, there is! Podcasting is a great way to give our students an audience and purpose when showing off the learning they are doing in school. The possibilities of podcasting are endless. Whether they are interviewing authors, creating their own audiobooks, or informing the world about ancient civilizations, you can be sure that our students are learning a ton and having a blast!
Screen Printing Positive Message in Middle School (Danielle Vivio / White Lake Middle School)
Art is a powerful tool for expressing ideas and sharing personal messages. One of my goals as an art teacher is to empower my students to find their artistic voice within our community. The screen printing process allows students to reproduce artwork on a variety of surfaces like posters and t-shirts. My middle school artists will use the printmaking process as a way to communicate positivity and a growth mindset throughout our school, spreading kindness and encouragement through their artwork.
High School Grants
Empowering Harbor Women (Paige Riley / Harbor High School)
The average girl’s self-esteem peaks at about age 9, and continues to decrease from that point. Helping teenage women build life skills through social-emotional learning (SEL) is an effective way to protect their mental wellness and give them tools to thrive in and out of school. Helping young women express opinions and take ownership of issues that impact them will make them more inclined to adopt leadership positions. This grant will purchase materials for a Empowering Women's group at Harbor High School. Research based SEL curriculum and hands- on materials for activities that will increase buy in will be purchased.
Scott Armstrong (Classroom Aquarium to Empower High Risk Students in Science / Harbor High School)
The purpose of this project is to empower high-risk high school students through project-based learning, fostering job responsibility and hands-on education. Our classroom aquarium initiative not only enhances academic engagement but also nurtures a profound sense of responsibility and pride in taking care of this classroom resource. This unique educational experience will deepen student understanding in life and physical sciences while instilling teamwork, self-esteem, and a strong work ethic. Support for this initiative will make a lasting impact with our high-risk student population, instilling values that extend beyond the classroom, fostering skills and virtues that will benefit them throughout their lives.
APUSH Podcast (Colleen Durham / Lakeland High School)
Students will create a mini-podcast about a historical topic of their choosing. Students can improve their communication skills by identifying a topic, crafting an outline, and writing scripts to layout their History Podcast. They can create interviews, breakdown what is happening in "real time", tell a tale as an American storyteller, create a conversation/debate regarding a historical controversy. They can add in sound effects and background music to make their podcast come alive. They will also be encouraged to add in sensory details to make listeners "see" the history.
Robo-Buddy Phone Chargers (Isaac Perry / Lakeland High School)
Imagine you're a high school senior, getting ready to go off to college, and you've never wired anything in your life and have zero knowledge about the electrical components you use every day. Now, imagine you're in Mr. Perry's AP Computer Science class, and you have the opportunity to learn these skills while making your very own customized Robo-Buddy phone charger! This is the experience I want to offer to my students, but I can only do so with a grant. Think of how many Lakeland seniors will be able to head off to their college dorms next year with their Robo-Buddy phone charger, and how many of them will brag to their entire floor about how they made it in their amazing computer science class!
Free Voluntary Reading Library (Kristen Leslie / Lakeland High School)
I would love students to have a choice in expanding their acquisition of the Spanish language through novels created for learners of the language. Since we have switched our curriculum to be about the acquisition of the language and not the learning about the language, students have been more engaged. They are acquiring the language through the culture and high student interest stories. They aren't learning through rote memorization of thematic vocabulary. My Milford HS counterparts have had great success with their FVR library and Dr. Knudson made sure to set aside space for the WL department to create a reading center.
Anatomical Models (Emma Flynn / Milford High School)
If provided this grant, I would like a model of the brain and models involved in processing our senses including an eye, ear, etc.) to show A.P. Psychology and Intro Psychology students. The study of the brain and its processes are a major component of this course. Because the 2D images make it difficult to map out these parts and where they lie in the brain, having a 3D model would assist students in understanding the location of and function of these parts. Additionally, we learn about the scientific processes involved in sensation/perception.
Scanmarker Air Pen Scanner: A Benefit to ELA (Emily Mienkwic / Milford High School)
In my ELA classes, I have a wide variety of learners. Some are visual, some are auditory; but the majority of my students on a yearly basis are a mix of both. They require the physical copy and a voice reading that material. The Scanmarker Pen Scanner allows students to listen to the text and allows more autonomy with their learning rather than only receiving the material from the teacher. Students can repeat difficult sections, based on individual needs rather than group. This pen can easily help my students who require a little more help in the reading area of ELA.
Forging Excellence (Lori Gleason / Milford High School)
The HOT team is Forging Excellence with every robot we build! We are seeking funding for a Mark Forged Onyx One 3D printer. This cutting-edge technology will empower our students to design, prototype, and manufacture critical robot components; fostering innovation and engineering skills. It will be an invaluable resource, enabling us to compete at the highest level and ensure that our students are well-equipped for careers in STEAM. We sincerely appreciate HVEF’s support in promoting hands-on-learning, creativity, and excellence. Together, we can inspire the next generation of engineers and innovators. Forge the future with us, it’s a HOT one!
Community Grants
Art for Life (Georgia Bingham / HVCA)
The HVEF continues to support the HVCA's "Arts for Life" program. Most importantly you have helped us keep the 8th grade Watroba-Jones show going for over 20 years. After COVID closing schools, we have struggled to find an appropriate 2nd grade theater program but hoped to continue to fill that void. In addition, it's important for us to reestablish our relationship with the Apollo Center children. We hope that we can bring two shows to the school this season.
Huron Valley Educational Foundation
2022-23 Grant Summaries
Elementary School Grants
Calming the Emotional Storm (Sonya Boehm / Apollo Early Childhood Center)
Our two classrooms are considered Special Education Categorical Classrooms. We have a total of 29 students in our classrooms. Students are kindergarten thru fifth grade, and a majority of our students are cognitively impaired. Many of our students have sensory needs and behavior plans that support the use/need for added materials that need to be purchased. We are asking for funds to furnish an already existing empty classroom. This room would be used as a preventive and as a proactive support to provide students with the sensory and calming techniques needed to prevent behavioral overreactions and unregulated behavior. It would also be used in crisis situations when the student(s) is/are having behaviors and high sensory need situations. This room will also enable the remaining students to be able to stay in their learning environment, and avoiding the entire classroom having to clear when a student is becoming upset, aggressive, or unregulated. Examples of materials that may be purchased will be alternate/calming seating, weighted materials, environmental materials (lighting, sound/music, smell) sensory manipulatives, positive rewards, and sensory motor materials.
Cool Kid Coding! (Stacie Rennie / Country Oaks Elementary)
Our world is becoming increasingly digital and it is imperative that our schools are keeping up with the ever changing technology. Therefore, I am asking for 6 Wonder Workshop Dash Coding Robots for use in our Country Oaks Elementary STEM/Computer lab. Teaching children to code at the elementary level, not only increases their problem-solving skills, improves their computational thinking and encourages creativity, but it also helps with their digital literacy. The six robots would be added to the five already in use in our lab. The additional technology is crucial in ensuring that each child is able to experience this hands-on activity during their class period.
One School, One Book (Susan Black / Heritage Elementary)
We look forward to celebrate reading month here at Heritage by choosing a book we can all read together at home for One School One Book. This is like a whole school book club. Mrs. Black our media technician carefully chooses a book and sends one copy home per family. Families read a chapter a night for 3 or 4 weeks. We have daily trivia questions and prizes based upon the reading. Usually at the end of the month we have an assembly and quiz teachers on the book. This year the losing team will get slimed!
Peace-Ful Place (Kim Szalay / Heritage Elementary)
Many teachers and support staff have and/or are asking for "quiet corners" in their classrooms. This has evolved into many of the elective teachers and support staff also wanting some additional materials to help support students who are experiencing difficulties regulating behaviors. "Quiet Corners" (AKA a "Peace-Ful Place") have been found to be successful elements, especially when they are used in a consistent manner and are available in all locations. These funds will be used to provide teachers and support staff with a tent, a bean bag chair to put in the tent, 1-2 mindfulness books (grade level equitant), and 2-3 fidget items.
Let's Make a Dream for our Second Graders (Angel Smarsty / Heritage Elementary)
Let's make STEAM the DREAM within our 2nd grade classrooms. When students walk into their classroom each morning they are excited to work on their ‘Smart Start’ routine of working with the items in the STEAM bin at their table. STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) is a crucial part of today's learning for young children. It gives young minds the chance to explore, create, imagine, manipulate and build with different objects--which in turn, promotes critical thinking skills, communication, and reflection. We want to provide inquiry-based learning in our classrooms and want our students to have the chance to have hands-on learning experiences throughout the school day.
Boom! Here Comes the Fun (David Rega / Highland Elementary)
Music class is full of fun instruments and manipulatives that allow students to perform, create, and improvise in various styles while developing fundamental musical skills. One of the best instruments to use is the Boomwhacker! Boomwhackers allow students of all ages and ability levels to participate in music-making in a variety of ways. With younger grades, puppets are a great way to help develop these skills and increase engagement. Who wouldn’t want to go to music class and sing with a kangaroo?
Readers Dozen (Karen Emerson / Highland Elementary)
Students come to school at various levels of reading proficiency. Students that come to our classroom need additional support and intervention to boost these early reading skills. This grant would allow students to manipulate letters and sounds in a fun and engaging way as they strengthen their decoding skills. Additionally, students would have the opportunity to build on vocabulary and comprehension skills. These are all necessary tools as students do the complex work of becoming proficient readers.
One Book, One School (Rachel Thornton / Lakewood Elementary)
Reading a book together brings the added joy of building and expanding a sense of community among students, parents, teachers, and staff. It also offers the opportunity for families to spend quality time with each other. It introduces a flexible structure and essential reading tips to incorporate reading aloud and fun reading activities into their everyday lives.
Rock the Rainbow Piano! (Sylvia LaPratt / Spring Mills Elementary)
What instrument will you often find in most places you go to? A piano. Wouldn't it be fun, if most of our students could play a couple of songs on a piano? The Rainbow Piano uses the same colors on the "keys" as the boomwhackers and rainbow glockenspiels. Students are familiar with those colors and would be able to use that knowledge for the Rainbow Piano. The rainbow streamers would be an excellent addition (and easily cleanable thanks to the plastic hoop) to our movement tools.
Middle School Grants
Hands-on History (Sheree Lozon / Muir Middle School)
Over the years, I have acquired a collection of colonial toy replicas and clothing artifacts that have been so incredibly loved by my students that they have begun to fall apart and very few remain intact. Both my 6th and 8th grade students immediately head for the "history toy chest" during every stretch break and passing period, but sadly, many students are now left out as so few remain. I am hoping to replenish the stock so that I can continue to see the students take joy in the cultural pursuits of the past, as well as have more clothes so that they can all enjoy what they love to call my "colonial drip" and proudly wear in the halls and at assemblies. It is rare to have an opportunity to give students a hands on experience in history and these
awesome replicas allow me to do just that.
Building Independence in Real Life (Eric Williams / Muir Middle School)
Independence is the goal for all. The paths we take and tools we utilize to reach this goal differs between individuals. The students in the three Categorical Classrooms at Muir need real life experiences to practice the life skills necessary for independence. Rarely do our students to have the chance to stay away from home without depending on their families. We wish to provide our students the opportunity to attend an overnight camping trip to Camp Ohiyesa. This grant will give them the chance to experience camp with the support of the staff that works with them daily.
Bio Magnets (Dave Browne / Oak Valley Middle School)
Modeling has become a major part of the curriculum as we align with the NGSS standards. Biology magnets will give students something tangible that they can move as they modify and improve their models in the concepts of biology, ecology, and environmental sciences. Students will be able to reenact DNA replication, build models of cells and human body systems, as well as design food webs with the magnets and the whiteboards.
Animal Cells Alive (Dave Browne / Oak Valley Middle School)
Understanding cell organelles as well as their structure and functions is one of the very first units of the year. This project will allow us to capture student attention by having them view a variety of cells under a microscope, and then build a large scale model of what they are seeing to help make connections. Students eat up any time we can give them on the microscopes and this lengthens the material and time we have for them.
Rubic's Cube Project (Brian Dawson / White Lake Middle School)
Students will gain and strengthen skills of sustaining attention and effort while learning that they do have the skills and intelligence to solve a seemingly impossible task. These items will also be used as SEL manipulatives that will assist students in practicing conscience transitioning that will invite emotional de-escalation and increase solution based thinking.
A Different Light (Joey Webb / White Lake Middle School)
We all have difficulties, but learning to communicate, socialize, and experience new things can be even more challenging when you have a disability. Being a child with a disability means that we need extra time, equipment, guidance, and support to be successful. My students need to experience things in a different light. This grant would help my students experience how important learning communication, socialization, and social skills are through thoughtful and exciting field trips. It is never too early to give them ideas for a possible career and allow them to see what opportunities they have when they grow up.
Sew Your (He)Art Out! (Janet Buchanan / White Lake Middle School)
There are so many mediums that can be used to create art: paints or inks, sculpting materials, glass, and also fabric. Our art room has recently received some donations of beautiful fabrics. As of right now, students have to hand sew if they want to use those fabrics. How amazing would it be to have a sewing machine and explore this medium of art!
High School Grants
Making Sense of Numbers Through Manipulatives and Games (Meredith Johnson / Lakeland High School)
Math requires participation, a skill many students are lacking. It also requires an understanding of number sense, which is a group of skills that allow people to work with numbers. Unfortunately, many students struggle with their number sense from a young age, creating a dislike for numbers and math in general, thus reducing their participation in math class; this is especially true in the special education classroom. Research has shown that through the use of manipulatives and math-related games, a renewed interest and understanding of number sense can increase a student’s self-confidence and improve overall performance in the mathematics classroom.
Forensic Science Laboratory Improvement (Laura Smith / Lakeland High School)
Many students have expressed an interest in pursuing a career in law enforcement and forensics. This grant would expand the laboratory experience to give students a hands-on approach in processing evidence in order to increase knowledge of the career. The grant would enable me to purchase materials to make crime scene processing a more accurate representation of what forensic scientists do. I'd like to have a facial reconstruction station, an area to determine trajectory, and supplies to create crime scenes. Job prospects and salaries are increasing for forensic scientists and exposing my students to these labs could encourage them to become experts in forensics.
Brain Model (Katelyn Mueller / Lakeland High School)
If provided this grant, I would like a model of the brain to show A.P. Psychology students. The study of the brain and its processes are a major component of this course. Because the 2D images make it difficult to map out these parts and where they lie in the brain, having a 3D model would assist students in understanding the location of and function of these parts.
Michigan's Micro Ecology (Amanda Beckett / Lakeland High School)
In Biology class, students study both simple and complex organisms. Some complex organisms, like us, are made up of millions of cells, but there are also very complex organisms made up of only one cell. They live all around us in Michigan’s lakes and ponds, but they are often difficult for students to study closely under a microscope because they move so fast. The preserved organisms on the slides I’m asking for will allow students to study these organisms up close and observe the magic of Michigan’s Micro Ecology.
Dressed for Success in the ATP! (Paige Riley / Milford High School)
Did you know that Michigan is one of the only states to provide special education through the age of 26? The HVS SMART Adult Transition Program (Students Mastering Adult Responsibilities Together) includes adult students with special needs. The students are ages 18-26 with goals of working towards functional independence and social skill interactions. This year the team is thrilled to be able to return to the vocational skill opportunity where students spend time at work sites in the community. This grant will fund uniform shirts so that students have a sense of being "on the job" as they learn the responsibilities and skills needed to work toward functional independence.
The HOT Team's Success Happens in the Pits (Lori Gleason / Milford High School)
With a grant from the HVEF, we will be able to fund this project this fall/winter with students. This project will allow more opportunities for our new students to learn core HOT design, build, and collaboration fundamentals that will be critical for the team's future success. This grant will help the HOT Team’s mission is to inspire students’ interest in science and technology for years to come. We plan to build and complete this pit upgrade during the upcoming winter.
Anatomy Models for AP and Intro Psychology (Emma Flynn / Milford High School)
During a time when focusing on mental health and awareness has been rightfully emphasized across the district, state, country, and the world, students are growing increasingly interested in the field of psychology. In psychology courses, students learn in depth about mental processes and behaviors under the lens of Biopsychology, which involves breaking down the structures and functions of the different parts of the brain and nervous system including neurons, neurotransmission, and the science behind all of our human senses. Diving into the science behind how the human brain/body works and is impacted by neurotransmitters with healthy wellness vs. unhealthy habits, not only helps students better understand themselves, but extends into many future career interests beyond psychology from pre-med, nursing, to kinesiology and more. Year after year, these Biopsychology units have proven to be a highlight of the year in both AP Psychology and Intro Psychology.
Three-dimensional educational anatomy models of a neuron, the brain, nervous system, human eye, ear, and our chemical senses would tremendously facilitate in helping students grasp a deeper understanding of biopsychology by providing an accurate scientific visual breakdown of these anatomical structures. Currently, I’ve been using everything from my homemade foam football “brain model” to my ping-pong “eye model” and a very pitiful handmade pipe cleaner “neuron model” in attempt to creatively provide the visual that only a proper anatomy model can truly successfully provide.
Please consider supporting my students genuine curiosity and passion for learning about mental health and wellness as they grasp a deeper and impactful understanding of our mental processes and behavior through lasting knowledge of biopsychology and basic human anatomy.
Community Grants
Scholarships for Rec and Ed Programming (Shannon Loso / HVS Rec and Ed)
HV Rec and Community Ed services our entire community and we are fee based so we can cover our costs. However, we are constantly asked about scholarship opportunities for students who are unable to pay these fees. Most of our programs already offer discounts for families on the free/reduced lunch plan, but there are times where that is still not enough to help. We do offer for them the reach out to Youth Assistance or even Community Sharing but that doesn't always work for them. 'd like to have an official scholarship program/fund where we could offer "x" number of scholarships to each school or even set up an application process and allow all HVS families to request assistance so their children can participate in our enrichment/recreation programs.
Art for Life (Georgia Bingham / HVCA)
With the help of the HVEF, we have been able to provide live shows for the Huron Valley students for almost 20 years. Last year we were able to provide the Watroba/Jones American Roots program to the 8th grade because we have built a pretty solid routine with the three schools. We lost our 2nd grade Theater Program, so we will have to work hard to find a comparable replacement. The Apollo program is a musical enhancement to the children because they do not have a formal music program.
Calming the Emotional Storm (Sonya Boehm / Apollo Early Childhood Center)
Our two classrooms are considered Special Education Categorical Classrooms. We have a total of 29 students in our classrooms. Students are kindergarten thru fifth grade, and a majority of our students are cognitively impaired. Many of our students have sensory needs and behavior plans that support the use/need for added materials that need to be purchased. We are asking for funds to furnish an already existing empty classroom. This room would be used as a preventive and as a proactive support to provide students with the sensory and calming techniques needed to prevent behavioral overreactions and unregulated behavior. It would also be used in crisis situations when the student(s) is/are having behaviors and high sensory need situations. This room will also enable the remaining students to be able to stay in their learning environment, and avoiding the entire classroom having to clear when a student is becoming upset, aggressive, or unregulated. Examples of materials that may be purchased will be alternate/calming seating, weighted materials, environmental materials (lighting, sound/music, smell) sensory manipulatives, positive rewards, and sensory motor materials.
Cool Kid Coding! (Stacie Rennie / Country Oaks Elementary)
Our world is becoming increasingly digital and it is imperative that our schools are keeping up with the ever changing technology. Therefore, I am asking for 6 Wonder Workshop Dash Coding Robots for use in our Country Oaks Elementary STEM/Computer lab. Teaching children to code at the elementary level, not only increases their problem-solving skills, improves their computational thinking and encourages creativity, but it also helps with their digital literacy. The six robots would be added to the five already in use in our lab. The additional technology is crucial in ensuring that each child is able to experience this hands-on activity during their class period.
One School, One Book (Susan Black / Heritage Elementary)
We look forward to celebrate reading month here at Heritage by choosing a book we can all read together at home for One School One Book. This is like a whole school book club. Mrs. Black our media technician carefully chooses a book and sends one copy home per family. Families read a chapter a night for 3 or 4 weeks. We have daily trivia questions and prizes based upon the reading. Usually at the end of the month we have an assembly and quiz teachers on the book. This year the losing team will get slimed!
Peace-Ful Place (Kim Szalay / Heritage Elementary)
Many teachers and support staff have and/or are asking for "quiet corners" in their classrooms. This has evolved into many of the elective teachers and support staff also wanting some additional materials to help support students who are experiencing difficulties regulating behaviors. "Quiet Corners" (AKA a "Peace-Ful Place") have been found to be successful elements, especially when they are used in a consistent manner and are available in all locations. These funds will be used to provide teachers and support staff with a tent, a bean bag chair to put in the tent, 1-2 mindfulness books (grade level equitant), and 2-3 fidget items.
Let's Make a Dream for our Second Graders (Angel Smarsty / Heritage Elementary)
Let's make STEAM the DREAM within our 2nd grade classrooms. When students walk into their classroom each morning they are excited to work on their ‘Smart Start’ routine of working with the items in the STEAM bin at their table. STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) is a crucial part of today's learning for young children. It gives young minds the chance to explore, create, imagine, manipulate and build with different objects--which in turn, promotes critical thinking skills, communication, and reflection. We want to provide inquiry-based learning in our classrooms and want our students to have the chance to have hands-on learning experiences throughout the school day.
Boom! Here Comes the Fun (David Rega / Highland Elementary)
Music class is full of fun instruments and manipulatives that allow students to perform, create, and improvise in various styles while developing fundamental musical skills. One of the best instruments to use is the Boomwhacker! Boomwhackers allow students of all ages and ability levels to participate in music-making in a variety of ways. With younger grades, puppets are a great way to help develop these skills and increase engagement. Who wouldn’t want to go to music class and sing with a kangaroo?
Readers Dozen (Karen Emerson / Highland Elementary)
Students come to school at various levels of reading proficiency. Students that come to our classroom need additional support and intervention to boost these early reading skills. This grant would allow students to manipulate letters and sounds in a fun and engaging way as they strengthen their decoding skills. Additionally, students would have the opportunity to build on vocabulary and comprehension skills. These are all necessary tools as students do the complex work of becoming proficient readers.
One Book, One School (Rachel Thornton / Lakewood Elementary)
Reading a book together brings the added joy of building and expanding a sense of community among students, parents, teachers, and staff. It also offers the opportunity for families to spend quality time with each other. It introduces a flexible structure and essential reading tips to incorporate reading aloud and fun reading activities into their everyday lives.
Rock the Rainbow Piano! (Sylvia LaPratt / Spring Mills Elementary)
What instrument will you often find in most places you go to? A piano. Wouldn't it be fun, if most of our students could play a couple of songs on a piano? The Rainbow Piano uses the same colors on the "keys" as the boomwhackers and rainbow glockenspiels. Students are familiar with those colors and would be able to use that knowledge for the Rainbow Piano. The rainbow streamers would be an excellent addition (and easily cleanable thanks to the plastic hoop) to our movement tools.
Middle School Grants
Hands-on History (Sheree Lozon / Muir Middle School)
Over the years, I have acquired a collection of colonial toy replicas and clothing artifacts that have been so incredibly loved by my students that they have begun to fall apart and very few remain intact. Both my 6th and 8th grade students immediately head for the "history toy chest" during every stretch break and passing period, but sadly, many students are now left out as so few remain. I am hoping to replenish the stock so that I can continue to see the students take joy in the cultural pursuits of the past, as well as have more clothes so that they can all enjoy what they love to call my "colonial drip" and proudly wear in the halls and at assemblies. It is rare to have an opportunity to give students a hands on experience in history and these
awesome replicas allow me to do just that.
Building Independence in Real Life (Eric Williams / Muir Middle School)
Independence is the goal for all. The paths we take and tools we utilize to reach this goal differs between individuals. The students in the three Categorical Classrooms at Muir need real life experiences to practice the life skills necessary for independence. Rarely do our students to have the chance to stay away from home without depending on their families. We wish to provide our students the opportunity to attend an overnight camping trip to Camp Ohiyesa. This grant will give them the chance to experience camp with the support of the staff that works with them daily.
Bio Magnets (Dave Browne / Oak Valley Middle School)
Modeling has become a major part of the curriculum as we align with the NGSS standards. Biology magnets will give students something tangible that they can move as they modify and improve their models in the concepts of biology, ecology, and environmental sciences. Students will be able to reenact DNA replication, build models of cells and human body systems, as well as design food webs with the magnets and the whiteboards.
Animal Cells Alive (Dave Browne / Oak Valley Middle School)
Understanding cell organelles as well as their structure and functions is one of the very first units of the year. This project will allow us to capture student attention by having them view a variety of cells under a microscope, and then build a large scale model of what they are seeing to help make connections. Students eat up any time we can give them on the microscopes and this lengthens the material and time we have for them.
Rubic's Cube Project (Brian Dawson / White Lake Middle School)
Students will gain and strengthen skills of sustaining attention and effort while learning that they do have the skills and intelligence to solve a seemingly impossible task. These items will also be used as SEL manipulatives that will assist students in practicing conscience transitioning that will invite emotional de-escalation and increase solution based thinking.
A Different Light (Joey Webb / White Lake Middle School)
We all have difficulties, but learning to communicate, socialize, and experience new things can be even more challenging when you have a disability. Being a child with a disability means that we need extra time, equipment, guidance, and support to be successful. My students need to experience things in a different light. This grant would help my students experience how important learning communication, socialization, and social skills are through thoughtful and exciting field trips. It is never too early to give them ideas for a possible career and allow them to see what opportunities they have when they grow up.
Sew Your (He)Art Out! (Janet Buchanan / White Lake Middle School)
There are so many mediums that can be used to create art: paints or inks, sculpting materials, glass, and also fabric. Our art room has recently received some donations of beautiful fabrics. As of right now, students have to hand sew if they want to use those fabrics. How amazing would it be to have a sewing machine and explore this medium of art!
High School Grants
Making Sense of Numbers Through Manipulatives and Games (Meredith Johnson / Lakeland High School)
Math requires participation, a skill many students are lacking. It also requires an understanding of number sense, which is a group of skills that allow people to work with numbers. Unfortunately, many students struggle with their number sense from a young age, creating a dislike for numbers and math in general, thus reducing their participation in math class; this is especially true in the special education classroom. Research has shown that through the use of manipulatives and math-related games, a renewed interest and understanding of number sense can increase a student’s self-confidence and improve overall performance in the mathematics classroom.
Forensic Science Laboratory Improvement (Laura Smith / Lakeland High School)
Many students have expressed an interest in pursuing a career in law enforcement and forensics. This grant would expand the laboratory experience to give students a hands-on approach in processing evidence in order to increase knowledge of the career. The grant would enable me to purchase materials to make crime scene processing a more accurate representation of what forensic scientists do. I'd like to have a facial reconstruction station, an area to determine trajectory, and supplies to create crime scenes. Job prospects and salaries are increasing for forensic scientists and exposing my students to these labs could encourage them to become experts in forensics.
Brain Model (Katelyn Mueller / Lakeland High School)
If provided this grant, I would like a model of the brain to show A.P. Psychology students. The study of the brain and its processes are a major component of this course. Because the 2D images make it difficult to map out these parts and where they lie in the brain, having a 3D model would assist students in understanding the location of and function of these parts.
Michigan's Micro Ecology (Amanda Beckett / Lakeland High School)
In Biology class, students study both simple and complex organisms. Some complex organisms, like us, are made up of millions of cells, but there are also very complex organisms made up of only one cell. They live all around us in Michigan’s lakes and ponds, but they are often difficult for students to study closely under a microscope because they move so fast. The preserved organisms on the slides I’m asking for will allow students to study these organisms up close and observe the magic of Michigan’s Micro Ecology.
Dressed for Success in the ATP! (Paige Riley / Milford High School)
Did you know that Michigan is one of the only states to provide special education through the age of 26? The HVS SMART Adult Transition Program (Students Mastering Adult Responsibilities Together) includes adult students with special needs. The students are ages 18-26 with goals of working towards functional independence and social skill interactions. This year the team is thrilled to be able to return to the vocational skill opportunity where students spend time at work sites in the community. This grant will fund uniform shirts so that students have a sense of being "on the job" as they learn the responsibilities and skills needed to work toward functional independence.
The HOT Team's Success Happens in the Pits (Lori Gleason / Milford High School)
With a grant from the HVEF, we will be able to fund this project this fall/winter with students. This project will allow more opportunities for our new students to learn core HOT design, build, and collaboration fundamentals that will be critical for the team's future success. This grant will help the HOT Team’s mission is to inspire students’ interest in science and technology for years to come. We plan to build and complete this pit upgrade during the upcoming winter.
Anatomy Models for AP and Intro Psychology (Emma Flynn / Milford High School)
During a time when focusing on mental health and awareness has been rightfully emphasized across the district, state, country, and the world, students are growing increasingly interested in the field of psychology. In psychology courses, students learn in depth about mental processes and behaviors under the lens of Biopsychology, which involves breaking down the structures and functions of the different parts of the brain and nervous system including neurons, neurotransmission, and the science behind all of our human senses. Diving into the science behind how the human brain/body works and is impacted by neurotransmitters with healthy wellness vs. unhealthy habits, not only helps students better understand themselves, but extends into many future career interests beyond psychology from pre-med, nursing, to kinesiology and more. Year after year, these Biopsychology units have proven to be a highlight of the year in both AP Psychology and Intro Psychology.
Three-dimensional educational anatomy models of a neuron, the brain, nervous system, human eye, ear, and our chemical senses would tremendously facilitate in helping students grasp a deeper understanding of biopsychology by providing an accurate scientific visual breakdown of these anatomical structures. Currently, I’ve been using everything from my homemade foam football “brain model” to my ping-pong “eye model” and a very pitiful handmade pipe cleaner “neuron model” in attempt to creatively provide the visual that only a proper anatomy model can truly successfully provide.
Please consider supporting my students genuine curiosity and passion for learning about mental health and wellness as they grasp a deeper and impactful understanding of our mental processes and behavior through lasting knowledge of biopsychology and basic human anatomy.
Community Grants
Scholarships for Rec and Ed Programming (Shannon Loso / HVS Rec and Ed)
HV Rec and Community Ed services our entire community and we are fee based so we can cover our costs. However, we are constantly asked about scholarship opportunities for students who are unable to pay these fees. Most of our programs already offer discounts for families on the free/reduced lunch plan, but there are times where that is still not enough to help. We do offer for them the reach out to Youth Assistance or even Community Sharing but that doesn't always work for them. 'd like to have an official scholarship program/fund where we could offer "x" number of scholarships to each school or even set up an application process and allow all HVS families to request assistance so their children can participate in our enrichment/recreation programs.
Art for Life (Georgia Bingham / HVCA)
With the help of the HVEF, we have been able to provide live shows for the Huron Valley students for almost 20 years. Last year we were able to provide the Watroba/Jones American Roots program to the 8th grade because we have built a pretty solid routine with the three schools. We lost our 2nd grade Theater Program, so we will have to work hard to find a comparable replacement. The Apollo program is a musical enhancement to the children because they do not have a formal music program.
Huron Valley Educational Foundation
2021-22 Grant Summaries
Elementary School Grants
One School, One Book (Susan Black / Heritage Elementary School)
Reading Month is a fun month at Heritage. We love to promote reading by choosing a book for a whole school read aloud. This year we have chosen "The Mouse and the Motorcycle" by Beverly Cleary. Each family receives a copy of the book and reads it together as a family. This gets the whole school reading and talking about the same book for the month. Students look forward to the daily trivia questions and prizes over the morning announcements. We love how this brings us together and creates a sense of community within our school.
Coding with Bots (Cathy Stando / Heritage Elementary School)
Heritage Elementary students hope to welcome a new and exciting student, "Botley." Botley is a CODING ROBOT who teaches children as young as five years old. Botley teaches coding without needing tablets. This eliminates screen time! Why is coding so important to our current generation? Because coding has revolutionized our world. It is our students' future. Just like writing, reading, and arithmetic are essential to lifelong skills, coding has become just that! It is basic literacy in the digital age. Coding has many educational benefits. It's like learning another language. Coding sparks creativity, strengthens math and writing skills, helps develop persistence, strengthens logic skills and taps into critical thinking skills. Botley will benefit all levels of learners and ages at Heritage! We hope he can become an essential member of our Heritage Community!
Project C.A.R.E [Creating Awesome Readers Everywhere] (Elora Nigro / Johnson Elementary School)
I am looking to create a reading nook for my 1st graders. This spot will provide students with a safe and comfortable location to practice and grow their skills. It will also give students a calm place with soft lighting to help ease the transition from learning at home to learning at school. This spot will help our littlest learners develop a love of school and reading.
Everyone Reads! (Rachel Thornton / Lakewood Elementary School)
The One School, One Book Program is a family reading program. It's like a whole school book club. Every student reads the same book with their parents at home for three weeks while the school encourages through morning announcements, assembly and contests. We have found from doing the program in the past that both parents and students love it!
Sensory Integration for ASD (Stephanie Riddle / Lakewood Elementary School)
Sensory issues are common in children with autism spectrum disorder. Having sensitivities to certain types of sensory input can create challenges in the student's everyday life, such as with school. Each student in our program has unique sensory needs which require regulation throughout the school day in order for our kids to be successful. The equipment in the grant will allow our ASD program to purchase needed sensory materials to support our students' individual sensory needs so we can focus on learning.
Variety and Choice Leads to Success (Jessica Parmerlee / Lakewood Elementary School)
As a teacher we strive to provide learning opportunities and materials that meet the needs of all our students. As a new second grade teacher in HVS I have found that my classroom library is lacking books for my lower level readers and I have very few options for them to pick from. I would like to give each and every student a variety of books to choose from. Providing more choices would allow students to have more control over what they read and would encourage them to engage more deeply with the text. I hope to provide many new titles that may give them new adventure to explore.
SOAR! (Kim Szalay / Lakewood Elementary School)
S.O.A.R Show Pride & Respect/Obtain Goals/Act Responsibly/Remember Safety is a school wide initiative that catches students being good. ALL staff carry tickets in a lanyard that are cut and ready to pass out to students when they are caught doing the right thing, being kind, or acting positively. This helps everyone notice people doing more positive things and helps build relationship, as the tickets will be dispersed everywhere (hallway, specials, inside the school, out at recess, busses...etc)! The tickets will be placed in a container and are attached to rewards and incentives. All students will receive a certificate and bracelet for their first S.O.A.R. ticket. 10 student names will be picked weekly and read on Friday announcements. Lakewood PTA is sponsoring the bracelets and some of the prizes.
Drumroll Please! (Sylvia LaPratt / Spring Mills Elementary School)
A drum set for each student in the music classroom? Impossible. Or is it?!? What if we used 10 inch food cans that the lunchroom is saving for us and transform them into crash cans, cutting boards as beat boards, and small tambourines to make our own drum sets? The program KidStix is using exactly that, plus real drumsticks. What a fun way to practice rhythms and play along to songs, when each students has their own set up of instruments in front of them! Engaging and lots of fun!
Middle School Grants
Environmental Environment (Vaughn Smith / Muir Middle School)
Growing plants in the classroom can provide a wealth of benefits for students and educators. Indoor plants have been linked to improved concentration and memory as well as a reduction in stress. Research has also linked indoor plants with increased productivity and reduced mental fatigue, all of which can be beneficial in the classroom environment.
Clothes Makes a Statement - Costumes Tell a Story (Michelle Doggett / Muir Middle School)
Muir elective theatre classes are taking the stage in the Spring of 2022 at Milford High School once again, after a brief hiatus during the pandemic. Our Theatre/Communication Arts courses will be performing, "Game of Tiaras" by Don Zolidis and we are looking to build up our costume closet. I am looking to purchase around eight specific costumes that could be used for years to come. "Costumes are the first impression that the audience has of the character before they open their mouth- it really does establish who they are"- Colleen Atwood. As a casting director of the play, and being limited on time with very little help with backstage, having pre-made costumes is extremely helpful and can then be used in my 6th grade Communication Arts classes and utilized in future plays. Specifically, I am looking to purchase a Snowman, Prince, King, Candlestick, two guards, a Teapot costume and a few props.
Separating Fact from Fiction through Historical Fiction Research (Julie Puffer / Muir Middle School & Huron Valley Virtual Academy)
Historical fiction authors meticulously research their topics in order to bring a fictionalized story to life for readers. For our informational research unit, our students will choose a historical fiction novel to read in a book club. Book clubs will discuss the novel while also completing a collaborative research project about the historical time period. Research should always be credible and fact-based; however, in order to be relevant, research must be driven by human experiences. Readers will synthesize the information presented in their research and in their novel through the focus question, “what can historical fiction teach us about the world?”
21st Century Digital Learning in the Art Room (Colleen Turner / Oak Valley Middle School)
With 21st Century learning skills being an integral part of students' learning, it is important to incorporate this into the art classroom. Using these iPads, students will learn how to utilize digital photography and editing techniques to build a digital portfolio of their artwork.
High School Grants
Career Central (Karen Gerard / Harbor High School)
Harbor High School is the only high school in the Huron Valley district without a Career Center. We plan to fulfill that desperate need with our innovative, one-stop "Career Central." Our goal is to create a welcoming, comfortable, and organized place to assist students with developing and implementing their post-secondary plans. Whether it’s college information and applications, world of work or military options, post-secondary training opportunities, or assistance with scholarship and financial aid applications, Career Central will offer resources and guidance to students as they evaluate their options and solidify plans for their next steps toward successful futures.
Creating Windows and Mirrors in a Classroom Library (Maureen Convery / International Academy West)
Reading is the most powerful tool we have to promote empathy and build a better world. Through this grant, I hope to build a classroom library that is contemporary and challenging, that helps students grow in their love of reading, and that both affirms their own experiences AND opens them up to the experiences of others.
Free Voluntary Reading in Advanced Spanish (Carrie Pishek / Milford High School)
We will use the grant to expand the library that was started by Elizabeth Smith a couple of years ago. Our entry level Spanish classes have developed a habit of free voluntary reading and we would like to build on this habit. Building this practice into our curriculum far exceeded our expectations and hopes in terms of student gains in reading capacity and language ability. In addition, it is something students genuinely look forward to during their school day. We feel that continuing this practice represents best practice. The books that we would purchase with these funds are compelling and interesting to high school students, and written at their advanced level. This would also allow us to purchase books at mid to upper level language capacity in order to differentiate for the varied abilities and interests of students. We have been given the chance to outfit a room in our school to use as a library specifically for this purpose. This is a legacy grant, in that it will impact students immediately and into the future.
Camping 2022 (Jennifer Grubb / Milford High School)
This trip supports our cognitively impaired teenage population, who benefit from direct instruction and opportunities to practice functional independence in a variety of environments. Students will experience a day-trip outing at a local campsite, participating in small group activities with peers and a staff and/or family members. Skills addressed include choice making, food planning and preparation, community safety, hygiene, self-care, and social skills. They will choose from various leisure activities, including fishing, boating, swimming, hiking, bonfires. Students will address personal health, safety and hygiene, general fire and water safety.
Connecting Across Generations (Jennifer Grubb / Milford High School)
Students and community members alike will benefit from this alliance! During the pandemic, we saw isolation in many groups. Seniors and young adults with disabilities were two of the groups affected by social and physical isolation. This project will allow them to connect. It will build on social skills and allow students a way to give back to their community.
Cellphone Sensors for Science (Lori Gleason / Milford High School)
Modern cellphones are equipped with a myriad of sensors that science students can use to gather information about the world around them. Https://www.vieyrasoftware.net/ has created an app called "Physics Toolbox" that accesses these sensors and shows students information about motion, light, sound, magnetic fields, inclination angle and more. My vision is to install this app on twelve+ $60 cell phones to provide access to all of these tools on one hand held device that can used by students to explore the world of physics.
Community Grants
Comprehensive Literacy Instruction for Preschoolers with Significant Delays (Amy Ebright / Apollo Early Childhood Center)
This grant will provide the opportunity for Special Education (ECSE/PAL) teachers to teach phonetic awareness, literacy and language skills with hands on materials designed for these unique students to learn, practice and apply essential concepts. These materials will allow teachers to teach critical skills which align with Michigan's Early Childhood Standards of Quality.
Fun with Phonemic Awareness (Jennifer Kane / Apollo Early Childhood Center)
This program will help me enhance my weekly phoneme instruction within the pre-k classroom, providing a jump start to phonemic awareness for the soon-to-be K students. At the Pre-K level, we do not have a core curriculum that is sponsored by the district. As a speech language pathologist, I do not have the resources to buy large material bundles. I have been through the full training to use the Lively Letters materials created by a speech language pathologist. However, I do not have the means to buy the materials. The oral kinesthetic (mouth cues) feature of the Lively Letter Program helps set it apart from other multi-sensory programs, as students are taught what to do with their mouths in order to produce the sounds as well as embedded pictures mnemonics. This is the target of my weekly push-in pre-k class activities. This is done in a fun and engaging way as students are introduced to meaningful letter characters that are strategically embedded right into the letters. The materials address multiple targets, simultaneously training students in the critical skills of phonemic awareness, phonics, and speech production.
Arts for Life (Georgia Bingham / Huron Valley Council for the Arts)
The HVCA Arts for Life Program has, with the help of the HVEF, provided a variety of music and theater, puppetry, and historical folk music featuring slave - modern day rap during Black History Month.
One School, One Book (Susan Black / Heritage Elementary School)
Reading Month is a fun month at Heritage. We love to promote reading by choosing a book for a whole school read aloud. This year we have chosen "The Mouse and the Motorcycle" by Beverly Cleary. Each family receives a copy of the book and reads it together as a family. This gets the whole school reading and talking about the same book for the month. Students look forward to the daily trivia questions and prizes over the morning announcements. We love how this brings us together and creates a sense of community within our school.
Coding with Bots (Cathy Stando / Heritage Elementary School)
Heritage Elementary students hope to welcome a new and exciting student, "Botley." Botley is a CODING ROBOT who teaches children as young as five years old. Botley teaches coding without needing tablets. This eliminates screen time! Why is coding so important to our current generation? Because coding has revolutionized our world. It is our students' future. Just like writing, reading, and arithmetic are essential to lifelong skills, coding has become just that! It is basic literacy in the digital age. Coding has many educational benefits. It's like learning another language. Coding sparks creativity, strengthens math and writing skills, helps develop persistence, strengthens logic skills and taps into critical thinking skills. Botley will benefit all levels of learners and ages at Heritage! We hope he can become an essential member of our Heritage Community!
Project C.A.R.E [Creating Awesome Readers Everywhere] (Elora Nigro / Johnson Elementary School)
I am looking to create a reading nook for my 1st graders. This spot will provide students with a safe and comfortable location to practice and grow their skills. It will also give students a calm place with soft lighting to help ease the transition from learning at home to learning at school. This spot will help our littlest learners develop a love of school and reading.
Everyone Reads! (Rachel Thornton / Lakewood Elementary School)
The One School, One Book Program is a family reading program. It's like a whole school book club. Every student reads the same book with their parents at home for three weeks while the school encourages through morning announcements, assembly and contests. We have found from doing the program in the past that both parents and students love it!
Sensory Integration for ASD (Stephanie Riddle / Lakewood Elementary School)
Sensory issues are common in children with autism spectrum disorder. Having sensitivities to certain types of sensory input can create challenges in the student's everyday life, such as with school. Each student in our program has unique sensory needs which require regulation throughout the school day in order for our kids to be successful. The equipment in the grant will allow our ASD program to purchase needed sensory materials to support our students' individual sensory needs so we can focus on learning.
Variety and Choice Leads to Success (Jessica Parmerlee / Lakewood Elementary School)
As a teacher we strive to provide learning opportunities and materials that meet the needs of all our students. As a new second grade teacher in HVS I have found that my classroom library is lacking books for my lower level readers and I have very few options for them to pick from. I would like to give each and every student a variety of books to choose from. Providing more choices would allow students to have more control over what they read and would encourage them to engage more deeply with the text. I hope to provide many new titles that may give them new adventure to explore.
SOAR! (Kim Szalay / Lakewood Elementary School)
S.O.A.R Show Pride & Respect/Obtain Goals/Act Responsibly/Remember Safety is a school wide initiative that catches students being good. ALL staff carry tickets in a lanyard that are cut and ready to pass out to students when they are caught doing the right thing, being kind, or acting positively. This helps everyone notice people doing more positive things and helps build relationship, as the tickets will be dispersed everywhere (hallway, specials, inside the school, out at recess, busses...etc)! The tickets will be placed in a container and are attached to rewards and incentives. All students will receive a certificate and bracelet for their first S.O.A.R. ticket. 10 student names will be picked weekly and read on Friday announcements. Lakewood PTA is sponsoring the bracelets and some of the prizes.
Drumroll Please! (Sylvia LaPratt / Spring Mills Elementary School)
A drum set for each student in the music classroom? Impossible. Or is it?!? What if we used 10 inch food cans that the lunchroom is saving for us and transform them into crash cans, cutting boards as beat boards, and small tambourines to make our own drum sets? The program KidStix is using exactly that, plus real drumsticks. What a fun way to practice rhythms and play along to songs, when each students has their own set up of instruments in front of them! Engaging and lots of fun!
Middle School Grants
Environmental Environment (Vaughn Smith / Muir Middle School)
Growing plants in the classroom can provide a wealth of benefits for students and educators. Indoor plants have been linked to improved concentration and memory as well as a reduction in stress. Research has also linked indoor plants with increased productivity and reduced mental fatigue, all of which can be beneficial in the classroom environment.
Clothes Makes a Statement - Costumes Tell a Story (Michelle Doggett / Muir Middle School)
Muir elective theatre classes are taking the stage in the Spring of 2022 at Milford High School once again, after a brief hiatus during the pandemic. Our Theatre/Communication Arts courses will be performing, "Game of Tiaras" by Don Zolidis and we are looking to build up our costume closet. I am looking to purchase around eight specific costumes that could be used for years to come. "Costumes are the first impression that the audience has of the character before they open their mouth- it really does establish who they are"- Colleen Atwood. As a casting director of the play, and being limited on time with very little help with backstage, having pre-made costumes is extremely helpful and can then be used in my 6th grade Communication Arts classes and utilized in future plays. Specifically, I am looking to purchase a Snowman, Prince, King, Candlestick, two guards, a Teapot costume and a few props.
Separating Fact from Fiction through Historical Fiction Research (Julie Puffer / Muir Middle School & Huron Valley Virtual Academy)
Historical fiction authors meticulously research their topics in order to bring a fictionalized story to life for readers. For our informational research unit, our students will choose a historical fiction novel to read in a book club. Book clubs will discuss the novel while also completing a collaborative research project about the historical time period. Research should always be credible and fact-based; however, in order to be relevant, research must be driven by human experiences. Readers will synthesize the information presented in their research and in their novel through the focus question, “what can historical fiction teach us about the world?”
21st Century Digital Learning in the Art Room (Colleen Turner / Oak Valley Middle School)
With 21st Century learning skills being an integral part of students' learning, it is important to incorporate this into the art classroom. Using these iPads, students will learn how to utilize digital photography and editing techniques to build a digital portfolio of their artwork.
High School Grants
Career Central (Karen Gerard / Harbor High School)
Harbor High School is the only high school in the Huron Valley district without a Career Center. We plan to fulfill that desperate need with our innovative, one-stop "Career Central." Our goal is to create a welcoming, comfortable, and organized place to assist students with developing and implementing their post-secondary plans. Whether it’s college information and applications, world of work or military options, post-secondary training opportunities, or assistance with scholarship and financial aid applications, Career Central will offer resources and guidance to students as they evaluate their options and solidify plans for their next steps toward successful futures.
Creating Windows and Mirrors in a Classroom Library (Maureen Convery / International Academy West)
Reading is the most powerful tool we have to promote empathy and build a better world. Through this grant, I hope to build a classroom library that is contemporary and challenging, that helps students grow in their love of reading, and that both affirms their own experiences AND opens them up to the experiences of others.
Free Voluntary Reading in Advanced Spanish (Carrie Pishek / Milford High School)
We will use the grant to expand the library that was started by Elizabeth Smith a couple of years ago. Our entry level Spanish classes have developed a habit of free voluntary reading and we would like to build on this habit. Building this practice into our curriculum far exceeded our expectations and hopes in terms of student gains in reading capacity and language ability. In addition, it is something students genuinely look forward to during their school day. We feel that continuing this practice represents best practice. The books that we would purchase with these funds are compelling and interesting to high school students, and written at their advanced level. This would also allow us to purchase books at mid to upper level language capacity in order to differentiate for the varied abilities and interests of students. We have been given the chance to outfit a room in our school to use as a library specifically for this purpose. This is a legacy grant, in that it will impact students immediately and into the future.
Camping 2022 (Jennifer Grubb / Milford High School)
This trip supports our cognitively impaired teenage population, who benefit from direct instruction and opportunities to practice functional independence in a variety of environments. Students will experience a day-trip outing at a local campsite, participating in small group activities with peers and a staff and/or family members. Skills addressed include choice making, food planning and preparation, community safety, hygiene, self-care, and social skills. They will choose from various leisure activities, including fishing, boating, swimming, hiking, bonfires. Students will address personal health, safety and hygiene, general fire and water safety.
Connecting Across Generations (Jennifer Grubb / Milford High School)
Students and community members alike will benefit from this alliance! During the pandemic, we saw isolation in many groups. Seniors and young adults with disabilities were two of the groups affected by social and physical isolation. This project will allow them to connect. It will build on social skills and allow students a way to give back to their community.
Cellphone Sensors for Science (Lori Gleason / Milford High School)
Modern cellphones are equipped with a myriad of sensors that science students can use to gather information about the world around them. Https://www.vieyrasoftware.net/ has created an app called "Physics Toolbox" that accesses these sensors and shows students information about motion, light, sound, magnetic fields, inclination angle and more. My vision is to install this app on twelve+ $60 cell phones to provide access to all of these tools on one hand held device that can used by students to explore the world of physics.
Community Grants
Comprehensive Literacy Instruction for Preschoolers with Significant Delays (Amy Ebright / Apollo Early Childhood Center)
This grant will provide the opportunity for Special Education (ECSE/PAL) teachers to teach phonetic awareness, literacy and language skills with hands on materials designed for these unique students to learn, practice and apply essential concepts. These materials will allow teachers to teach critical skills which align with Michigan's Early Childhood Standards of Quality.
Fun with Phonemic Awareness (Jennifer Kane / Apollo Early Childhood Center)
This program will help me enhance my weekly phoneme instruction within the pre-k classroom, providing a jump start to phonemic awareness for the soon-to-be K students. At the Pre-K level, we do not have a core curriculum that is sponsored by the district. As a speech language pathologist, I do not have the resources to buy large material bundles. I have been through the full training to use the Lively Letters materials created by a speech language pathologist. However, I do not have the means to buy the materials. The oral kinesthetic (mouth cues) feature of the Lively Letter Program helps set it apart from other multi-sensory programs, as students are taught what to do with their mouths in order to produce the sounds as well as embedded pictures mnemonics. This is the target of my weekly push-in pre-k class activities. This is done in a fun and engaging way as students are introduced to meaningful letter characters that are strategically embedded right into the letters. The materials address multiple targets, simultaneously training students in the critical skills of phonemic awareness, phonics, and speech production.
Arts for Life (Georgia Bingham / Huron Valley Council for the Arts)
The HVCA Arts for Life Program has, with the help of the HVEF, provided a variety of music and theater, puppetry, and historical folk music featuring slave - modern day rap during Black History Month.
Huron Valley Educational Foundation
2020-21 Grant Summaries
Elementary School Grants
Bowling for Huron Valley (Ryan Arnold / Country Oaks Elementary School)
Bowling is a fantastic sport! Bowling not only helps strengthen muscles of the arms, legs and back, but it also improves flexibility and balance. Bowling is a low impact sport and most importantly provides many great social benefits. People of all ages can safely participate in bowling. We want to provide our Huron Valley students with the necessary bowling equipment so they can enjoy the benefits of this amazing lifelong sport during their weekly Physical Education class.
One School One Book, Fenway and Hattie (Susan Black / Heritage Elementary School)
The One School, One Book Program is a family reading program. It's like a whole school book club. Every student reads the same book with their parents at home for three weeks.We have found from doing the program in the past that both parents and students love this program. If the need arises we could always take the program virtual once they have their books.
Engaging Young Authors (Mary Kay Colaianne / Highland Elementary School)
With the recent increase in the emphasis on technology, it is more important than ever for us to remember that hands-on and face-to-face interaction are essential to learning. A classroom meeting area with a chart stand for shared writing and creating anchor charts is essential to the success of young writers. The Writing Workshop method provides students with the opportunity to develop their writing skills through independent practice and engagement with others. As students collaborate around the shared work they will experience firsthand the power of the writing process.
Sensory Support (Erin Muransky & Nicole Stokes / Highland Elementary School)
Students in the emotional impairment program struggle with focus and self-control needed to make healthy choices, exhibit positive behavior, and develop relationships. Sensory tools will support this crucial development. Many students are overwhelmed by sensory information. Sensory issues extend to movement, balance, coordination, and body awareness. Affected students may be over- or under-sensitive to input; some students fluctuate between both extremes. This can affect information processing, response, writing, participation in sports or social situations, and ability to remain calm. Benefits of sensory play include ability to perform complex tasks; language development, cognitive growth, fine and gross motor skills, problem solving skills, and improved social interaction; memory development; ability to self-calm.
Green(er) Zone Days (Ashley Tucker & Alison Lemanski / Highland Elementary School)
During this stressful, pandemic time, students’ emotional well-being and mental-health is at risk. Through individualized special instruction through the Zones of Regulation materials, my hope is to help build our students’ social emotional learning capacity through fun and interactive games. The Zones of Regulation materials help students to identify their emotions/feelings, triggers, and coping strategies to self-manage their behaviors. With this gift of games for our students, we would be able to teach the material in a fun, new way. These materials would be used in a small group format for students needing extra social emotional support.
Little Learners (Rachel Francis / Johnson Elementary School)
Kitchen for Kindergartners! I am looking to enhance my dramatic play area in my kindergarten classroom. I would like to purchase a kids play kitchen with realistic dramatic play accessories, such as pots and plans. Young student learn best through play. I would like to give this experience.
Writing Workspace for Young Writers (Mara Lempert/ Johnson Elementary School)
A great amount of the kindergarten year is learning and developing the foundational skills for literacy practices. Physical space shouldn't be a barrier to student success. Having a writing space for my young learners that promotes safety, comfort, creativity, and focus is at the top of our classroom needs. Our current writing table is falling apart. With this grant, I'd be able to help my little writers reach their full writing potential by providing my students with a dedicated writing center.
SEL Mini Individual Sensory Bins (Kim Szalay / Johnson Elementary School)
From K-5th grade, play-based learning continues to be an important part of every young child’s day. It’s how kids express themselves while learning and managing the development of social skills. While incorporating the Zones of Regulation and managing social-emotional learning (SEL), COVID has placed many restrictions on all of us. The need for sensory items continues to be a great need for many students. Sensory items help; "stimulate a child's senses which goes on inside the brain and is closely related to tons of other skills that your child needs to grow into a fully functional adult." (Your Kids table, 2020). However, COVID-19 has affected this important childhood activity. I understand the need for sensory items in managing our emotions and our behaviors, and I am hoping to put together multiple sensory bins (X50) for those students who may need some outlet during this very difficult time. Although these "mini sensory bins," will only include a few items each; they incorporate all the Zones of Regulation and will only be used by 1 person per week per bin, allowing us to quarantine materials between use. We are asking for 50 bins plus; sensory items to be placed in each bin to include: pin wheel, sensory sand balls, sensory bead balls, mesh encased pellet, theraputty, sand timer, fidget magnet, visual liquid motion, bubbles, mints, squeeze fidget).
Just for Ukes (Jim Shouldice / Oxbow Elementary School)
The “Just for Ukes” project will purchase a classroom set of ukuleles to be used by students in their upper elementary music classes. Ukuleles are a popular and cost-effective instrument for learning music in 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade. Students will learn various chords and strumming techniques as well as expand their musical vocabulary by learning to play songs from various genres including folk, pop, and rock. Additionally, learning to accompany songs on the ukulele will equip students to make music outside of school and thus enable them to continue engaging in music making long after they have left the elementary general music classroom.
Process Art for SEL (Danielle Vivio / All Elementary Buildings)
The art room is a safe place where all students should feel comfortable expressing ideas and taking risks. Process Art, or the open-ended exploration of materials, tools and techniques can be used across the educational setting and is multi-level user friendly (which is essential with our categorical programs). It naturally integrates SEL, in a non-judgmental environment and allows all students to express themselves while encompassing a unique sensory experience. The addition of gel printing to our elementary art program will allow our students to build self confidence while fully immersed in a new artistic process.
Middle School Grants
Generation Genius for Virtual Learning! (Katelyn Conrad / Huron Valley Virtual Academy)
Teaching science online poses obvious challenges. Many of the hands-on experiences that easily engage students are much more difficult, especially with no guarantee of what the students have at home. Generation Genius is an online subscription with NGSS aligned videos, lesson plans, readings, activities and quizzes that are grade level appropriate, fun and engaging for students. The videos are produced in partnership with the Nation Teachers Science Association. I used this resource as a free trial in the spring and students absolutely loved it. Generation Genius videos and lessons will be perfect for independent, asynchronous learning.
Virtually POSSIBLE to PERFORM! (Kristin Blanchard / Muir Middle School)
In a world where live performances are not able to take place, musicians crave some sense of normalcy and many of us have taken to the internet to share our gift of music. As a band director, times like this cause us to be more creative than ever before. My grant would allow me to hire a sound engineer to create a video production of my 7th and 8th grade band students performing "together", but not live...virtually. These performances take many hours to complete and engineer, and the person must have the proper software, expertise and time to create such a video. Students join band to be a part of something bigger; a team in so many ways and to know there WILL be a performance to show off our hard work this year is the motivation many of my students need!
Discovering Digital Images with Sky-High Flying Drones (Roberta Diacono / Muir Middle School)
As a student of the Media Production Team at Muir Middle School, our students are given video editing tools to produce some quite advanced video segments for Muir’s Daily Announcements. Our Students learn Production skills such as writing, producing, directing, shooting, and digital editing techniques as well as teamwork techniques to Produce Daily Announcements that are often touted as “These cannot be produced daily by 8th graders? By Adding a Video Drone to our collection of tools that we use in our classroom, this will make our segments SOAR! This drone would also be able to be used to produce other segments that Muir would also be able to use for special features. This is a wonderful opportunity and technique that will boost our video production expectations to an even HIGHER level.
Calling All Performers (Michelle Doggett / Muir Middle School)
"Taking the stage" and building confidence, one student at a time is my motto. With the development of Communication Arts courses throughout the district at ALL three grade levels, it is apparent that our performers need a place to call home. With the changes in this unusual school year, our performers have been run off the stage and forced to perform their partner scenes, monologues and group scenes back in the classroom. We all learn to adapt and sacrifice for the greater good of our building. As an elective teacher, I'm asking the committee to consider purchasing one large red curtain backdrop with a heavy duty frame to be added in my classroom. Currently, with not allowing guests into the buildings, I have had to be creative and find ways to share the shows/performances with families. I have been actively recording the different performances and sharing the links. It would be extremely beneficial to have stage curtains as a backdrop to hide all the other materials in my classroom that are distracting and take away from the performer(s). This will offer my students a more professional setting. This curtain divider set could then be taken to the stage in the future and used as backdrop set pieces, when this pandemic is over.
Diverse Literacy Based Speech-Language Intervention (Megan Makowski / Muir Middle School)
Children's books are a fantastic way to address a wide variety of speech, language, and communication skills. As a speech-language pathologist at Muir and Kurtz I am hoping to expand my collection of children's books to better reflect the diverse population of my caseload. A diverse library should include books that feature individuals of different races, cultures, ethnicities, abilities (based on a broad definition of disability which includes intellectual disability, physical disability, mental illness, and developmental disabilities), socioeconomic status, genders, and family structures.
High School Grants
Adulting / Life Skills for All (Teri Wertman / Harbor High School)
Everyone needs life skills, but many of us don’t have them. Now we have an opportunity to get practical, interactive experience in an organized way. Subject matter experts present, either virtually or in person. Classes are initially offered through Adult Enrichment, but they could be done as an after-school program, as well. Attendees may have short preparatory assignments, will demonstrate their practiced new skills, and provide feedback to the class on their progress. Curriculum may include: Career Preparation, Education, Health and Nutrition, Housing and Home Management, Risk Prevention, and Money Management.
Medical Career Exploration (Amanda Beckett / Lakeland High School)
The equipment provided by the Medical Career Exploration grant will provide students with an opportunity to learn how to measure basic health diagnostics, like temperature, blood pressure, pulse rate, blood oxygen level, and more! Students who enjoy this work may be encouraged to pursue a career in the medical field, while all students will become better informed about the meaning behind their own health measurements as consumers of medical care throughout their lifetime. This lab is especially timely considering our current focus on health as it relates to Covid-19, and the need for students to understand what these basic measurements mean for their health.
Unity 4 Community: Eyes & Smiles (Elizabeth Mack / Lakeland High School)
"Eyes and Smiles" would provide a Unity for Community experience bringing art and design students together and to create a collaborative three dimensional art installation. This collaborative work will expose the unity of humanity that we all share regardless of our differences that is relevant to the challenges of 2020 . The hope is that this beautiful, personal and meaningful interactive art experience will draw attention to the need for disadvantaged students without proper home technology that includes fully functioning laptops and/or WIFI connectivity and hopes to inspire additional funding for this kind of student inequality. This would be a portable display for the purpose of a public exhibit.
Community Grants
Adaptive Toys for Educational Excellence (Jaime Felt / Apollo Early Childhood Center)
Our Severely Multiply Impaired classroom at Apollo has been fully open for a year and currently services students ages 5-7. All our students are in the early developmental stages of play. Due to multiple impairments, toys and educational materials for typically developing children are not easy for our students to use and manipulate. The different adaptive educational toys (adaptive switch bubble machine, adaptive switch light show mirror, adaptive fiber optic switch light, jelly sticky pads, draw and write touch board, fill it up, fine motor jars, peg number boards, create a burger sequencing stacker, getting ready to write gumball grab, construct A letter activity center and Powerlink 4) I am seeking through this grant would allow my students to play more independently as well as have educational materials at their level to help them reach educational excellence.
Bowling for Huron Valley (Ryan Arnold / Country Oaks Elementary School)
Bowling is a fantastic sport! Bowling not only helps strengthen muscles of the arms, legs and back, but it also improves flexibility and balance. Bowling is a low impact sport and most importantly provides many great social benefits. People of all ages can safely participate in bowling. We want to provide our Huron Valley students with the necessary bowling equipment so they can enjoy the benefits of this amazing lifelong sport during their weekly Physical Education class.
One School One Book, Fenway and Hattie (Susan Black / Heritage Elementary School)
The One School, One Book Program is a family reading program. It's like a whole school book club. Every student reads the same book with their parents at home for three weeks.We have found from doing the program in the past that both parents and students love this program. If the need arises we could always take the program virtual once they have their books.
Engaging Young Authors (Mary Kay Colaianne / Highland Elementary School)
With the recent increase in the emphasis on technology, it is more important than ever for us to remember that hands-on and face-to-face interaction are essential to learning. A classroom meeting area with a chart stand for shared writing and creating anchor charts is essential to the success of young writers. The Writing Workshop method provides students with the opportunity to develop their writing skills through independent practice and engagement with others. As students collaborate around the shared work they will experience firsthand the power of the writing process.
Sensory Support (Erin Muransky & Nicole Stokes / Highland Elementary School)
Students in the emotional impairment program struggle with focus and self-control needed to make healthy choices, exhibit positive behavior, and develop relationships. Sensory tools will support this crucial development. Many students are overwhelmed by sensory information. Sensory issues extend to movement, balance, coordination, and body awareness. Affected students may be over- or under-sensitive to input; some students fluctuate between both extremes. This can affect information processing, response, writing, participation in sports or social situations, and ability to remain calm. Benefits of sensory play include ability to perform complex tasks; language development, cognitive growth, fine and gross motor skills, problem solving skills, and improved social interaction; memory development; ability to self-calm.
Green(er) Zone Days (Ashley Tucker & Alison Lemanski / Highland Elementary School)
During this stressful, pandemic time, students’ emotional well-being and mental-health is at risk. Through individualized special instruction through the Zones of Regulation materials, my hope is to help build our students’ social emotional learning capacity through fun and interactive games. The Zones of Regulation materials help students to identify their emotions/feelings, triggers, and coping strategies to self-manage their behaviors. With this gift of games for our students, we would be able to teach the material in a fun, new way. These materials would be used in a small group format for students needing extra social emotional support.
Little Learners (Rachel Francis / Johnson Elementary School)
Kitchen for Kindergartners! I am looking to enhance my dramatic play area in my kindergarten classroom. I would like to purchase a kids play kitchen with realistic dramatic play accessories, such as pots and plans. Young student learn best through play. I would like to give this experience.
Writing Workspace for Young Writers (Mara Lempert/ Johnson Elementary School)
A great amount of the kindergarten year is learning and developing the foundational skills for literacy practices. Physical space shouldn't be a barrier to student success. Having a writing space for my young learners that promotes safety, comfort, creativity, and focus is at the top of our classroom needs. Our current writing table is falling apart. With this grant, I'd be able to help my little writers reach their full writing potential by providing my students with a dedicated writing center.
SEL Mini Individual Sensory Bins (Kim Szalay / Johnson Elementary School)
From K-5th grade, play-based learning continues to be an important part of every young child’s day. It’s how kids express themselves while learning and managing the development of social skills. While incorporating the Zones of Regulation and managing social-emotional learning (SEL), COVID has placed many restrictions on all of us. The need for sensory items continues to be a great need for many students. Sensory items help; "stimulate a child's senses which goes on inside the brain and is closely related to tons of other skills that your child needs to grow into a fully functional adult." (Your Kids table, 2020). However, COVID-19 has affected this important childhood activity. I understand the need for sensory items in managing our emotions and our behaviors, and I am hoping to put together multiple sensory bins (X50) for those students who may need some outlet during this very difficult time. Although these "mini sensory bins," will only include a few items each; they incorporate all the Zones of Regulation and will only be used by 1 person per week per bin, allowing us to quarantine materials between use. We are asking for 50 bins plus; sensory items to be placed in each bin to include: pin wheel, sensory sand balls, sensory bead balls, mesh encased pellet, theraputty, sand timer, fidget magnet, visual liquid motion, bubbles, mints, squeeze fidget).
Just for Ukes (Jim Shouldice / Oxbow Elementary School)
The “Just for Ukes” project will purchase a classroom set of ukuleles to be used by students in their upper elementary music classes. Ukuleles are a popular and cost-effective instrument for learning music in 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade. Students will learn various chords and strumming techniques as well as expand their musical vocabulary by learning to play songs from various genres including folk, pop, and rock. Additionally, learning to accompany songs on the ukulele will equip students to make music outside of school and thus enable them to continue engaging in music making long after they have left the elementary general music classroom.
Process Art for SEL (Danielle Vivio / All Elementary Buildings)
The art room is a safe place where all students should feel comfortable expressing ideas and taking risks. Process Art, or the open-ended exploration of materials, tools and techniques can be used across the educational setting and is multi-level user friendly (which is essential with our categorical programs). It naturally integrates SEL, in a non-judgmental environment and allows all students to express themselves while encompassing a unique sensory experience. The addition of gel printing to our elementary art program will allow our students to build self confidence while fully immersed in a new artistic process.
Middle School Grants
Generation Genius for Virtual Learning! (Katelyn Conrad / Huron Valley Virtual Academy)
Teaching science online poses obvious challenges. Many of the hands-on experiences that easily engage students are much more difficult, especially with no guarantee of what the students have at home. Generation Genius is an online subscription with NGSS aligned videos, lesson plans, readings, activities and quizzes that are grade level appropriate, fun and engaging for students. The videos are produced in partnership with the Nation Teachers Science Association. I used this resource as a free trial in the spring and students absolutely loved it. Generation Genius videos and lessons will be perfect for independent, asynchronous learning.
Virtually POSSIBLE to PERFORM! (Kristin Blanchard / Muir Middle School)
In a world where live performances are not able to take place, musicians crave some sense of normalcy and many of us have taken to the internet to share our gift of music. As a band director, times like this cause us to be more creative than ever before. My grant would allow me to hire a sound engineer to create a video production of my 7th and 8th grade band students performing "together", but not live...virtually. These performances take many hours to complete and engineer, and the person must have the proper software, expertise and time to create such a video. Students join band to be a part of something bigger; a team in so many ways and to know there WILL be a performance to show off our hard work this year is the motivation many of my students need!
Discovering Digital Images with Sky-High Flying Drones (Roberta Diacono / Muir Middle School)
As a student of the Media Production Team at Muir Middle School, our students are given video editing tools to produce some quite advanced video segments for Muir’s Daily Announcements. Our Students learn Production skills such as writing, producing, directing, shooting, and digital editing techniques as well as teamwork techniques to Produce Daily Announcements that are often touted as “These cannot be produced daily by 8th graders? By Adding a Video Drone to our collection of tools that we use in our classroom, this will make our segments SOAR! This drone would also be able to be used to produce other segments that Muir would also be able to use for special features. This is a wonderful opportunity and technique that will boost our video production expectations to an even HIGHER level.
Calling All Performers (Michelle Doggett / Muir Middle School)
"Taking the stage" and building confidence, one student at a time is my motto. With the development of Communication Arts courses throughout the district at ALL three grade levels, it is apparent that our performers need a place to call home. With the changes in this unusual school year, our performers have been run off the stage and forced to perform their partner scenes, monologues and group scenes back in the classroom. We all learn to adapt and sacrifice for the greater good of our building. As an elective teacher, I'm asking the committee to consider purchasing one large red curtain backdrop with a heavy duty frame to be added in my classroom. Currently, with not allowing guests into the buildings, I have had to be creative and find ways to share the shows/performances with families. I have been actively recording the different performances and sharing the links. It would be extremely beneficial to have stage curtains as a backdrop to hide all the other materials in my classroom that are distracting and take away from the performer(s). This will offer my students a more professional setting. This curtain divider set could then be taken to the stage in the future and used as backdrop set pieces, when this pandemic is over.
Diverse Literacy Based Speech-Language Intervention (Megan Makowski / Muir Middle School)
Children's books are a fantastic way to address a wide variety of speech, language, and communication skills. As a speech-language pathologist at Muir and Kurtz I am hoping to expand my collection of children's books to better reflect the diverse population of my caseload. A diverse library should include books that feature individuals of different races, cultures, ethnicities, abilities (based on a broad definition of disability which includes intellectual disability, physical disability, mental illness, and developmental disabilities), socioeconomic status, genders, and family structures.
High School Grants
Adulting / Life Skills for All (Teri Wertman / Harbor High School)
Everyone needs life skills, but many of us don’t have them. Now we have an opportunity to get practical, interactive experience in an organized way. Subject matter experts present, either virtually or in person. Classes are initially offered through Adult Enrichment, but they could be done as an after-school program, as well. Attendees may have short preparatory assignments, will demonstrate their practiced new skills, and provide feedback to the class on their progress. Curriculum may include: Career Preparation, Education, Health and Nutrition, Housing and Home Management, Risk Prevention, and Money Management.
Medical Career Exploration (Amanda Beckett / Lakeland High School)
The equipment provided by the Medical Career Exploration grant will provide students with an opportunity to learn how to measure basic health diagnostics, like temperature, blood pressure, pulse rate, blood oxygen level, and more! Students who enjoy this work may be encouraged to pursue a career in the medical field, while all students will become better informed about the meaning behind their own health measurements as consumers of medical care throughout their lifetime. This lab is especially timely considering our current focus on health as it relates to Covid-19, and the need for students to understand what these basic measurements mean for their health.
Unity 4 Community: Eyes & Smiles (Elizabeth Mack / Lakeland High School)
"Eyes and Smiles" would provide a Unity for Community experience bringing art and design students together and to create a collaborative three dimensional art installation. This collaborative work will expose the unity of humanity that we all share regardless of our differences that is relevant to the challenges of 2020 . The hope is that this beautiful, personal and meaningful interactive art experience will draw attention to the need for disadvantaged students without proper home technology that includes fully functioning laptops and/or WIFI connectivity and hopes to inspire additional funding for this kind of student inequality. This would be a portable display for the purpose of a public exhibit.
Community Grants
Adaptive Toys for Educational Excellence (Jaime Felt / Apollo Early Childhood Center)
Our Severely Multiply Impaired classroom at Apollo has been fully open for a year and currently services students ages 5-7. All our students are in the early developmental stages of play. Due to multiple impairments, toys and educational materials for typically developing children are not easy for our students to use and manipulate. The different adaptive educational toys (adaptive switch bubble machine, adaptive switch light show mirror, adaptive fiber optic switch light, jelly sticky pads, draw and write touch board, fill it up, fine motor jars, peg number boards, create a burger sequencing stacker, getting ready to write gumball grab, construct A letter activity center and Powerlink 4) I am seeking through this grant would allow my students to play more independently as well as have educational materials at their level to help them reach educational excellence.
Huron Valley Educational Foundation
2019-20 Grant Summaries
Elementary School Grants
Ba-da-Boom, We ALL Play the Tune! (LesleyAnne Newsted / Heritage Elementary School)
Physical limitations and challenges should never get in the way of making music! Boomwhackers, mini keyboards, and adaptive mallets will help provide even more opportunities for all students at Heritage, especially those with special needs and physical challenges, to create and perform music in class. All students at Heritage will have a chance to play these instruments as they explore melody, harmony, and beat but they will be especially important for those students for whom recorders and ukuleles may be too difficult to physically manage. This grant will help ALL of our students to play side by side in harmony!
In honor of Lindsay Cotter
Sensory Support (Debbie Giola / Highland Elementary School)
First graders entering school are bombarded with a multitude of tasks that require the development of executive functioning and self-regulation skills. Students often come to school lacking these mental skills that help a child succeed academically, socially and emotionally. Tools are needed to teach and develop focus and self-control. Early development in the primary grades helps students make healthy choices, exhibit positive behavior, and develop appropriate relationships. Sensory items available to all students will support this development.
Mindfulness Starts Here (Sandra Clarke & Jennifer Sztumerski / Highland Elementary School)
So much of the early elementary years focus on fostering the “whole” child; making sure to not only support a child’s academic needs but also to develop the social and emotional skills necessary to become well-rounded successful learners/citizens. Mindfulness is a tool that students and teachers can use to help cultivate confidence in life and create a classroom environment that’s primed for learning. The benefits students gain from practicing mindfulness will support student’s academic and social emotional growth and have lasting effects both inside and outside the classroom. If we receive this grant, students and teachers will participate in mindfulness training/practices led by a trained mindfulness coach. Teachers and students will also continue to use these practices on their own.
In honor of Catherine Covert
Flexible Seating for Technology (Greg Mauller / Johnson Elementary School)
More than ever, to meet the needs of all learners teachers are incorporating flexible seating options into the classroom. As we re-imagine traditional classrooms as spaces where students can collaborate and communicate, we must also consider how technology fits into this paradigm. This furniture will allow students to work collaboratively as well as independently (when needed). It is portable and can be used to transform any space to one of learning and technology integration.
Building Job Skills: The CATS Caring Cart (Sue Trotter / Kurtz Elementary School)
We are starting a Caring Cart for the students in the moderate cognitive impaired classroom to help them learn job skills. Our kids will be sorting, displaying and delivering snacks throughout the school for staff member to purchase on a weekly basis to help support our program. Our kids will be able to generalize the skills they are learning in the classroom. These skills include: social, fine motor, gross motor, communication, math, sorting.
In honor of Barbara Gavitt
Super Makers and Designers (Dena Spurlock / Kurtz Elementary School)
We have been growing Maker Space as part of our classroom practice. We find our students are passionate for making and tinkering, and as teachers we continue to explore different learning tools to connect high interest projects with the curriculum. The Nintendo Switch will allow students to use the Labo Kit where they will be able to create pianos, motorbikes, and more and use Mario Maker to design, engineer, and test out their very own Super Mario levels. Today's learners are hand's on, passionate, active learners. Our students are no exception.
One School, One Book (Rachel Thornton / Lakewood Elementary School)
Through the use of the One School, One Book program we would like to harness the power of parents to help our students build the habit of reading. This program engages all elementary families and teachers by asking them to read a chapter a night of the same book. When families read together it connects them and helps them to establish the foundation for growth in all areas of their children’s life. They also make a greater connection with the whole school through school wide activities, trivia questions, and assemblies that center around the book.
In honor of Sue Baldwin
Time's Up (Danielle Eller / Lakewood Elementary School)
I am one of the Resource Room/Teacher Consultants at Lakewood. We could use some timers for a variety of purposes in the room. We like to stay on track during our WIN groups and having a large timer for all to see would be great. Smaller timers are needed to help students who come in for sensory breaks or small breaks during the day. Sand timers and the light timer would help students that need more of a visual of time when they are having a difficult time transitioning between activity.
Tell Me What You Want... Inclusive Play (Stephanie Riddle / Lakewood Elementary School)
The playground builds crucial social skills such as turn taking, cooperative play, conflict resolution, and communication. Students in the ASD classrooms at Lakewood all struggle with social and expressive language skills. Even though some students are verbal, our students struggle to make choices for play or have the ability to express if something is wrong. This is frustrating for both the student with ASD and their peers. These core boards will help us facilitate communication with peers on the playground, which will increase friendships and appropriate social skills. It will also help support our non verbal students with expressing their wants and needs while playing outside.
Middle School Grants
Promoting Literacy by Producing Podcasts (Julie Puffer / Muir Middle School)
Words have power. Empowering students through literacy has always been a primary goal of instruction in English Language Arts. Podcasts provide students with another pathway to learn and communicate. They come in countless formats, lengths, and genres. In this project, 7th and 8th grade students will explore podcasts as literary, informative, and persuasive texts. Students will also be asked to develop a podcast during a thematic unit on “Ethical Consumerism.” This proposal will focus on developing literacy skills while elevating students’ voices through podcasting. In other words, students will have the power to send their voice out into the world.
In honor of The Huron Valley Education Association's Red for Education Campaign
Let's Dissect! (Mandy Brugger / Oak Valley Middle School)
After working through our unit on Body Systems, all 7th grade students will be able to participate in a frog dissection. During the dissection students will be able to visualize all the body systems they had studied and investigate them further.
Unity Rocks (Kelly Haas / Oak Valley Middle School)
Belong, Believe, Become - this is our mission statement at Oak Valley. We want all of our students to feel like they belong to our Oak Valley family while recognizing that they also bring unique characteristics to our school as well. We read the students the story 'You Be You' about being unique and then have all sixth graders paint a rock to represent something that makes them unique and we display these rocks at the entrance to the school. These rocks get added to the rocks painted by the older students to create an Oak Valley Unity Rock garden.
In honor of The Circle of Change
Brian Balmages Visits Huron Valley Bands (Heather Fitzpatrick / White Lake Middle School)
Composer Brian Balmages will be spending 3 days with band students grades 7-12 in Huron Valley. He will be working with bands from each school to present 3 concerts that feature his music in March. Students will interact with him discussing his compositions, how to become a professional musician, and how to create music for others. Each concert will also have Mr. Balmages featured as a guest conductor on each concert.
In honor of The BenjaMen of Huron Valley
Weather Station 2.0 (Christine Smith / White Lake Middle School)
White Lake, Michigan is the well known location of a National Oceanic and Atmospheric/National Weather Service Station. This station provides data on our local atmospheric conditions, impacting both local and national forecasts. White Lake Middle School “Weather Station 2.0” will be a source of real-time measurements of atmospheric conditions in the atmosphere. Eighth grade science students will take field measurements of atmospheric data here at school, allowing a deeper understanding of local and global weather changes. This grant moves student learning from paper and pencil to learning in the field, modeling our own local atmospheric scientists!
In honor of Dr. Robert & Marie McCauley
High School Grants
HOT New 3D Printers Heating Up Robotics Competitions (Lori Gleason / International Academy, Lakeland & Milford High Schools)
With assistance from the Huron Valley Educational Foundation, the Heroes of Tomorrow (HOT), FIRST Robotics Competition team plans to expand our awareness of mechanical engineering by purchasing two 3D printers. Because of this addition to the team, students would have access to create mechanical components for robots from computer aided design drawings. Ultimately, this will impact student involvement on the team with hands-on and innovative applications of concepts learned in the classroom as well as throughout their time on the HOT Team.
What a Pickle (Meghan Polce / Lakeland High School)
The physical Education Department is redoing the curriculum and adjusting to the current state standards. For racket sports LHS is adding pickle ball and badminton. These two activities not only line up with the state required standards they also are lifelong sports and are activities that every student can participate in.
In honor of Hitting for the Valley
Exhibit Your Art (Cecilia Gollan / Milford High School)
My grant request is for the purchase of foam core boards that are 48" x 96" for student displays. This will allow the art department a way to increase the amount of student work throughout the school rather then two show cases and few pieces throughout the office.
In honor of Thomas Ormandy
ASL Interpreted Play (Jeanne Geraci / Milford High School)
The purpose of the trip is to show ASL 2 students a shadow interpreted play. The actresses and actors are on the stage and sign language interpreters literally "shadow" the actors and they interpret the entire play in American Sign Language. Students will be able to experience the language, NMS (facial expressions), ASL grammar, role shifting, shoulder shifting, classifiers, listing, etc- all of these are part of ASL grammar, language and deaf culture. Students will also be able to learn more about the interpreting profession. Students meet with the interpreters after the play and are able to ask questions about the interpreting profession.
WMHS Radio (Dave Browne / Milford High School)
The SNAP circuit radio kit will allow students to create their own circuit system that will create a working FM radio. Students will be able to scan radio stations after the creation of their circuit and actually look at the interior mechanisms that allow radios to convert electromagnetic waves into sound waves. This will allow us to help make an abstract concept more tangible.
In honor of The Michigan Net QMN
VO2GO (Maria Kormos / Milford High School)
The VO2GO is a compilation of over 100 vocational/daily living skills tasks contained on a portable cart. The cart offers a range of vocational/daily living tasks for varying skill levels within our special education and adult transition programs complete with an evaluation system. Tasks cards have both picture and word descriptions to benefit a wide range of users. Due to its portable nature it can be used by multiple classrooms independently of or in addition to our current in house vocational/daily living skills program - PAES Lab (Practical Assessment Exploration System). The two labs compliment one another by providing beginning and continuing opportunities for all students. The VO2GO will provide additional vocational/daily living skill opportunities to many students with the flexibility of performing these tasks within their own classrooms.
Spanish Reading Library (Elizabeth Smith / Milford High School)
I will use the grant to create a reading library in our Spanish classes. Finding material written at an appropriate level that is compelling and not juvenile to teenagers is very difficult. Most of the material (books, magazines, graphic novels) are written by language teachers specifically for the students at this level. Students will use the Spanish reading library 2-4 times a week at the beginning of the hour. They will choose reading material that is appropriate for their level and read for 5-15 minutes. The materials will be on mobile shelves and racks so multiple teachers have access to the materials on different days of the week.
Community Grants
Write On (Jaime Felt / Apollo Early Childhood Center)
This year we opened a full time Severely Multiply Impaired classroom at Apollo that currently services students ages 3-7. All our students are in the early developmental stages which means they are learning to write. Due to multiple impairments typical writing utensils and tools are not always what is best for our students. The different materials (stamps, adaptive scissors, easy hold silicone adaptive aids, squiggle wiggle writer, visual edge slant boards and ink stamp pads) I am seeking through this grant would give my students an easier and more comfortable way of expressing themselves through writing.
In honor of Regina Lehker
Arts for Life (Georgia Bingham / HVCA)
The HVEF has supported the HVCA's Arts for Life Program for many, many years. We could not continue to provide the programming we do for your students without the HVEF's support. For over 15 years we have provided the American Roots Program for all 8th graders in the HVS district. In addition, it's our mission to continue to bring a live theater program to each 2nd grader. For the past 8 or so years, we've worked hard to bring a live music/puppet/ interactive program to all Apollo Preschoolers.
Ba-da-Boom, We ALL Play the Tune! (LesleyAnne Newsted / Heritage Elementary School)
Physical limitations and challenges should never get in the way of making music! Boomwhackers, mini keyboards, and adaptive mallets will help provide even more opportunities for all students at Heritage, especially those with special needs and physical challenges, to create and perform music in class. All students at Heritage will have a chance to play these instruments as they explore melody, harmony, and beat but they will be especially important for those students for whom recorders and ukuleles may be too difficult to physically manage. This grant will help ALL of our students to play side by side in harmony!
In honor of Lindsay Cotter
Sensory Support (Debbie Giola / Highland Elementary School)
First graders entering school are bombarded with a multitude of tasks that require the development of executive functioning and self-regulation skills. Students often come to school lacking these mental skills that help a child succeed academically, socially and emotionally. Tools are needed to teach and develop focus and self-control. Early development in the primary grades helps students make healthy choices, exhibit positive behavior, and develop appropriate relationships. Sensory items available to all students will support this development.
Mindfulness Starts Here (Sandra Clarke & Jennifer Sztumerski / Highland Elementary School)
So much of the early elementary years focus on fostering the “whole” child; making sure to not only support a child’s academic needs but also to develop the social and emotional skills necessary to become well-rounded successful learners/citizens. Mindfulness is a tool that students and teachers can use to help cultivate confidence in life and create a classroom environment that’s primed for learning. The benefits students gain from practicing mindfulness will support student’s academic and social emotional growth and have lasting effects both inside and outside the classroom. If we receive this grant, students and teachers will participate in mindfulness training/practices led by a trained mindfulness coach. Teachers and students will also continue to use these practices on their own.
In honor of Catherine Covert
Flexible Seating for Technology (Greg Mauller / Johnson Elementary School)
More than ever, to meet the needs of all learners teachers are incorporating flexible seating options into the classroom. As we re-imagine traditional classrooms as spaces where students can collaborate and communicate, we must also consider how technology fits into this paradigm. This furniture will allow students to work collaboratively as well as independently (when needed). It is portable and can be used to transform any space to one of learning and technology integration.
Building Job Skills: The CATS Caring Cart (Sue Trotter / Kurtz Elementary School)
We are starting a Caring Cart for the students in the moderate cognitive impaired classroom to help them learn job skills. Our kids will be sorting, displaying and delivering snacks throughout the school for staff member to purchase on a weekly basis to help support our program. Our kids will be able to generalize the skills they are learning in the classroom. These skills include: social, fine motor, gross motor, communication, math, sorting.
In honor of Barbara Gavitt
Super Makers and Designers (Dena Spurlock / Kurtz Elementary School)
We have been growing Maker Space as part of our classroom practice. We find our students are passionate for making and tinkering, and as teachers we continue to explore different learning tools to connect high interest projects with the curriculum. The Nintendo Switch will allow students to use the Labo Kit where they will be able to create pianos, motorbikes, and more and use Mario Maker to design, engineer, and test out their very own Super Mario levels. Today's learners are hand's on, passionate, active learners. Our students are no exception.
One School, One Book (Rachel Thornton / Lakewood Elementary School)
Through the use of the One School, One Book program we would like to harness the power of parents to help our students build the habit of reading. This program engages all elementary families and teachers by asking them to read a chapter a night of the same book. When families read together it connects them and helps them to establish the foundation for growth in all areas of their children’s life. They also make a greater connection with the whole school through school wide activities, trivia questions, and assemblies that center around the book.
In honor of Sue Baldwin
Time's Up (Danielle Eller / Lakewood Elementary School)
I am one of the Resource Room/Teacher Consultants at Lakewood. We could use some timers for a variety of purposes in the room. We like to stay on track during our WIN groups and having a large timer for all to see would be great. Smaller timers are needed to help students who come in for sensory breaks or small breaks during the day. Sand timers and the light timer would help students that need more of a visual of time when they are having a difficult time transitioning between activity.
Tell Me What You Want... Inclusive Play (Stephanie Riddle / Lakewood Elementary School)
The playground builds crucial social skills such as turn taking, cooperative play, conflict resolution, and communication. Students in the ASD classrooms at Lakewood all struggle with social and expressive language skills. Even though some students are verbal, our students struggle to make choices for play or have the ability to express if something is wrong. This is frustrating for both the student with ASD and their peers. These core boards will help us facilitate communication with peers on the playground, which will increase friendships and appropriate social skills. It will also help support our non verbal students with expressing their wants and needs while playing outside.
Middle School Grants
Promoting Literacy by Producing Podcasts (Julie Puffer / Muir Middle School)
Words have power. Empowering students through literacy has always been a primary goal of instruction in English Language Arts. Podcasts provide students with another pathway to learn and communicate. They come in countless formats, lengths, and genres. In this project, 7th and 8th grade students will explore podcasts as literary, informative, and persuasive texts. Students will also be asked to develop a podcast during a thematic unit on “Ethical Consumerism.” This proposal will focus on developing literacy skills while elevating students’ voices through podcasting. In other words, students will have the power to send their voice out into the world.
In honor of The Huron Valley Education Association's Red for Education Campaign
Let's Dissect! (Mandy Brugger / Oak Valley Middle School)
After working through our unit on Body Systems, all 7th grade students will be able to participate in a frog dissection. During the dissection students will be able to visualize all the body systems they had studied and investigate them further.
Unity Rocks (Kelly Haas / Oak Valley Middle School)
Belong, Believe, Become - this is our mission statement at Oak Valley. We want all of our students to feel like they belong to our Oak Valley family while recognizing that they also bring unique characteristics to our school as well. We read the students the story 'You Be You' about being unique and then have all sixth graders paint a rock to represent something that makes them unique and we display these rocks at the entrance to the school. These rocks get added to the rocks painted by the older students to create an Oak Valley Unity Rock garden.
In honor of The Circle of Change
Brian Balmages Visits Huron Valley Bands (Heather Fitzpatrick / White Lake Middle School)
Composer Brian Balmages will be spending 3 days with band students grades 7-12 in Huron Valley. He will be working with bands from each school to present 3 concerts that feature his music in March. Students will interact with him discussing his compositions, how to become a professional musician, and how to create music for others. Each concert will also have Mr. Balmages featured as a guest conductor on each concert.
In honor of The BenjaMen of Huron Valley
Weather Station 2.0 (Christine Smith / White Lake Middle School)
White Lake, Michigan is the well known location of a National Oceanic and Atmospheric/National Weather Service Station. This station provides data on our local atmospheric conditions, impacting both local and national forecasts. White Lake Middle School “Weather Station 2.0” will be a source of real-time measurements of atmospheric conditions in the atmosphere. Eighth grade science students will take field measurements of atmospheric data here at school, allowing a deeper understanding of local and global weather changes. This grant moves student learning from paper and pencil to learning in the field, modeling our own local atmospheric scientists!
In honor of Dr. Robert & Marie McCauley
High School Grants
HOT New 3D Printers Heating Up Robotics Competitions (Lori Gleason / International Academy, Lakeland & Milford High Schools)
With assistance from the Huron Valley Educational Foundation, the Heroes of Tomorrow (HOT), FIRST Robotics Competition team plans to expand our awareness of mechanical engineering by purchasing two 3D printers. Because of this addition to the team, students would have access to create mechanical components for robots from computer aided design drawings. Ultimately, this will impact student involvement on the team with hands-on and innovative applications of concepts learned in the classroom as well as throughout their time on the HOT Team.
What a Pickle (Meghan Polce / Lakeland High School)
The physical Education Department is redoing the curriculum and adjusting to the current state standards. For racket sports LHS is adding pickle ball and badminton. These two activities not only line up with the state required standards they also are lifelong sports and are activities that every student can participate in.
In honor of Hitting for the Valley
Exhibit Your Art (Cecilia Gollan / Milford High School)
My grant request is for the purchase of foam core boards that are 48" x 96" for student displays. This will allow the art department a way to increase the amount of student work throughout the school rather then two show cases and few pieces throughout the office.
In honor of Thomas Ormandy
ASL Interpreted Play (Jeanne Geraci / Milford High School)
The purpose of the trip is to show ASL 2 students a shadow interpreted play. The actresses and actors are on the stage and sign language interpreters literally "shadow" the actors and they interpret the entire play in American Sign Language. Students will be able to experience the language, NMS (facial expressions), ASL grammar, role shifting, shoulder shifting, classifiers, listing, etc- all of these are part of ASL grammar, language and deaf culture. Students will also be able to learn more about the interpreting profession. Students meet with the interpreters after the play and are able to ask questions about the interpreting profession.
WMHS Radio (Dave Browne / Milford High School)
The SNAP circuit radio kit will allow students to create their own circuit system that will create a working FM radio. Students will be able to scan radio stations after the creation of their circuit and actually look at the interior mechanisms that allow radios to convert electromagnetic waves into sound waves. This will allow us to help make an abstract concept more tangible.
In honor of The Michigan Net QMN
VO2GO (Maria Kormos / Milford High School)
The VO2GO is a compilation of over 100 vocational/daily living skills tasks contained on a portable cart. The cart offers a range of vocational/daily living tasks for varying skill levels within our special education and adult transition programs complete with an evaluation system. Tasks cards have both picture and word descriptions to benefit a wide range of users. Due to its portable nature it can be used by multiple classrooms independently of or in addition to our current in house vocational/daily living skills program - PAES Lab (Practical Assessment Exploration System). The two labs compliment one another by providing beginning and continuing opportunities for all students. The VO2GO will provide additional vocational/daily living skill opportunities to many students with the flexibility of performing these tasks within their own classrooms.
Spanish Reading Library (Elizabeth Smith / Milford High School)
I will use the grant to create a reading library in our Spanish classes. Finding material written at an appropriate level that is compelling and not juvenile to teenagers is very difficult. Most of the material (books, magazines, graphic novels) are written by language teachers specifically for the students at this level. Students will use the Spanish reading library 2-4 times a week at the beginning of the hour. They will choose reading material that is appropriate for their level and read for 5-15 minutes. The materials will be on mobile shelves and racks so multiple teachers have access to the materials on different days of the week.
Community Grants
Write On (Jaime Felt / Apollo Early Childhood Center)
This year we opened a full time Severely Multiply Impaired classroom at Apollo that currently services students ages 3-7. All our students are in the early developmental stages which means they are learning to write. Due to multiple impairments typical writing utensils and tools are not always what is best for our students. The different materials (stamps, adaptive scissors, easy hold silicone adaptive aids, squiggle wiggle writer, visual edge slant boards and ink stamp pads) I am seeking through this grant would give my students an easier and more comfortable way of expressing themselves through writing.
In honor of Regina Lehker
Arts for Life (Georgia Bingham / HVCA)
The HVEF has supported the HVCA's Arts for Life Program for many, many years. We could not continue to provide the programming we do for your students without the HVEF's support. For over 15 years we have provided the American Roots Program for all 8th graders in the HVS district. In addition, it's our mission to continue to bring a live theater program to each 2nd grader. For the past 8 or so years, we've worked hard to bring a live music/puppet/ interactive program to all Apollo Preschoolers.
Huron Valley Educational Foundation
2018-19 Grant Summaries
Elementary School Grants
Moving Toward Independence (Jaime Felt / Apollo Early Childhood Center)
At the Apollo Center we have opened a classroom that services our most impaired Special Education 3-5 year old students. Most of our students are not mobile and learn the world by exploring through rolling/crawling through their day. The mats will allow our students to be in a clean, safe environment while exploring their world to activate switches to aid in their communication and reach for cause/effect toys to provide sensory awareness.
One School, One Book (Susan Black / Heritage Elementary School)
One School, One Book is a school wide book club. During the month of March for "Reading Month" I would like to focus on bullying as part of the Positivity Project at our school. The HVEF grant will be used to purchase the book "Restart" by Gordon Korman for students in grades 2-5. This book lends itself to many discussions on bullying, making choices, how to treat others and overbearing sports parents.
GENERATION(s) CONNECT (Leisa Zelinski / Heritage Elementary School)
GENERATIONS CONNECT! With our face paced world of ongoing technological advancements, we have lost pieces of the human connection. Our students have never lived in a world of having to "wait." Everything is at their fingertips and is there fast! While technology has helped our world grow in so many positive ways, it has also changed human connections. I strongly believe that we have a responsibility to encourage and foster face to face contact. My plan is to join with Independence Village, in White Lake, to create a "buddy" program between our fifth grade and the elderly residents!
Let Your Drum Speak Your Mind (Sylvia LaPratt / Heritage Elementary School)
A drum circle fosters collaboration, creativity, improvisation, and acceptance - important attributes in today's world. By adding those djembes, a tubano, and the middle Eastern drums, we would be closer to our drum circle. My students would benefit greatly from opportunities where they can just simply be themselves, without being judged, in a safe environment. They are assessed many times during a school day. I would love for them to let go of the stress and pressure, just to dive into making music together with their friends. Taking turns, listening, being spontaneous - those are just a few things my students can gain from a drum circle experience
Reading & Riding the Great Lakes (Jennifer Pipkin / Oxbow Elementary School)
I am proposing to purchase a Pedal Desk Bike for my students. Also, I would like to purchase Michigan books to help support my 3rd grade curriculum on Michigan Geography, Economic, Civics/Government, and History units. Both of these items will be a part of our Reading and Riding The Great Lakes of Michigan, as my project based learning objective for this school year. This grant will allow students the opportunity to learn about our State of Michigan that aligns directly with our curriculum, reading and researching Michigan literacy books, promoting a healthy lifestyle while supporting my kinesthetic learners. We will keep track of the miles we pedaled around the Great Lakes while recording our activity on a bulletin board for all visual learners. This authentic year long project will be a collaborative effort for all students to be part of our learning community that works together for success.
Music-Go-Rounds - Music Theory at Your Fingertips (Sylvia LaPratt / Spring Mills Elementary School)
These new silicone Music-Go-Rounds are a hands-on approach to music theory and composing, in a world full of technology and touchscreens. These colorful circles stick to white boards and smooth surfaces, making them a great tool to teach dynamics, tempo, solfege, rhythms, introduction to note reading, and many more musical concepts. They are fun-to-touch, flexible, easy to clean, and appeal to all learning types - visual, aural, verbal, kinesthetic, social and solitary learners. They are very versatile as they can be used for whole classroom instruction, but also in music centers where students can create music one element at a time.
Middle School Grants
Commission That (Kristen Blanchard / Muir Middle School)
This is the SECOND part of a grant proposal for which I already received grant money. My original proposal, called COMMISSION THIS! was written 2 years ago. This project and grant was for a music commission by composer, Tyler S. Grant of Alabama. With the first grant, we were able to start the commission and even get students involved in the process. This commission will be a 2-3 minute piece of music dedicated to the current and former band students at Muir MS. Two years ago, the students had an opportunity to fill out a Google Form, in which they were asked what type of piece they would like to see written, what style, what features they wanted and any other characteristics that they thought would be appropriate for a piece of music written for OUR band. The feedback was incredible. The students were thoughtful and insightful. This has really helped our composer get a feel for our kids and our community. "COMMISSION THAT!" would allow our composer, Mr. Tyler S. Grant, to come to Milford, MI on March 4, 2019 as a part of our March Musical Madness. He will be welcomed as our Composer in Residence. He will be here for the entire day, working with our kids on HIS piece that he has written for us and we will perform in a concert that evening. This grant proposal will pay for his appearance, flight, hotel and other expenses. This is an amazing opportunity for our music students!
Building a Community (Carrie Bradley / Muir Middle School)
Team 702 is comprised of roughly 130 students. Students will be spending time this year in several units looking for successful ways to eliminate stereotypes. The overall goal with this project is to have several units and community building team events throughout the year that focus on diversity awareness, acceptance, and respect.
Building Independence in Real Life (Trina Buell / Muir Middle School)
Independence is the goal for all. The paths we take and tools we utilize to reach this goal differs between individuals. The students in the three Categorical Classrooms at Muir need real life experiences to practice the life skills necessary for independence. Rarely do our students to have the chance to stay away from home without depending on their families. We wish to provide our students the opportunity to attend an overnight camping trip to Camp Ohiyesa. This grant will give them the chance to experience camp with the support of the staff that works with them daily.
Promoting the Arts (Michelle Doggett / Muir Middle School)
Theatrical Performance has come alive at Muir Middle School. Students would love to promote their play and talents through playbills and posters creatively designed by students ad then professionally printed by the Digital Document Store. Our elective four theater classes are just getting started and do not have funds to spend, until we perform our plays and charge audience members. We would love to have the HVEF support the arts and this new elective acting program. Our students want to promote their play, their hard-work, and their creative side by having playbills made to introduce our cast and crew. The posters would be put on display throughout the school and communities to showcase and promote the six different plays for the year.
Creating a Caring Community (Jennifer Hollander / Muir Middle School)
Defeat the Label is a non-profit organization that empowers students to stand up for change and to stand up for each other. Muir is bringing their Upstander Program to all our 7th grade students again this year. This program brings the issue of bullying to the forefront of students’ social consciousness and empowers them to create a safe and bully free school. The Upstander program facilitator presents one hour lessons, once a month, in each of our 7th grade classrooms throughout the school year.
Developing Ethical Consumers Through Real Life Research (Julie Puffer / Muir Middle School)
That which we consume has numerous effects on our health, the environment, the economy, and our communities. The Omnivore’s Dilemma: Young Readers Edition will be used as a mentor text to develop informational reading, writing, and research skills. Students will connect with stakeholders in local food production and distribution through video conferencing calls and a trip to Chelsea, Michigan where they will tour the Jiffy Mix factory and the Tantre organic farm, to harvest and clean up fields. They will use the text study, their research, and their hands-on experiences to guide them in creating a multimedia argument speech.
Built for Success; We're in Business (Julie Puffer / Muir Middle School)
Capitalism seeps into the seams of so many aspects of our lives. Companies make claims about their products in order to inform and persuade customers. This proposal seeks to immerse students in an investigation of well-known businesses, while learning informational reading and writing, research, and presentation skills. Students will collaborate to craft a marketing website for an existing company. As a culmination, students will develop their own business or non-profit idea to present in a Shark Tank-style pitch. As they assess their peers’ pitches, students will get to “invest” in one product for our class Shark Tank.
Breaking out of the Box (Kathy Adriansen / Oak Valley Middle School)
Students love hands-on learning, and the Breakout EDU program provides that opportunity! Working together, students solve a series of puzzles to try to unlock their box. They explore various subjects while they “game” in real life! Topics available which augment our curriculum include figurative language, body systems, coding, Ancient Egypt, map skills, CTE, the arts, and more! To break down each class into small groups for maximum participation, we would like to purchase the bundle of six boxes with access codes. (We borrowed boxes for a trial run in smaller classes this week; the students were fully engaged!)
Programming Laptop for FTC (Stacy Kolassa / Oak Valley Middle School)
The FTC Robotics Team is in need of laptops for programming their robots. The students program in Android Studio which will not run on the old laptops that we currently have.
Holocaust Museum Visit (Sharee Cesarov / White Lake Middle School)
The objective of teaching middle school students about the Holocaust is to encourage our students to reflect and make connections to the prejudices and destruction endured by innocent people during this horrific time in our history. Visiting the Holocaust Memorial students are assigned a guide who is able to bring to life the exhibits.The highlight of this trip is when a Holocaust survivor tells their personal story of their life during this time. It also allows students to ask questions. How many more opportunities will students have to meet with the actual survivors of the Holocaust. It is truly a moving experience!
A Year with the Ann Arbor Symphony (Heather Fitzpatrick / White Lake Middle School)
Let's spend time with the Ann Arbor Symphony! Students will be working with professional musicians from the Ann Arbor Symphony once a month. During these sessions they will interact with the musicians and have the opportunity to learn new techniques, hear some great music, and interact with the pros. We will then travel to Ann Arbor to hear the entire Symphony in a Young People's concert in March.
Habitudes: Images That Form Leadership Habits and Attitudes (Darci LaRowe / White Lake Middle School)
White Lake Middle School is proud to center it's Leadership class around the WEB program. WEB stands for “Where Everybody Belongs” and is a middle school orientation and transition program that empowers our 8th Grade Leadership students to welcome our 6th graders and makes them feel comfortable throughout the first year of their middle school experience. WEB is built on the belief that students can help fellow students succeed. As positive role models, WEB Leaders are mentors and student leaders who guide the 6th graders to better learn what it takes to be successful during the transition to middle school and help facilitate the success of our 6th graders. To further enrich this program, we would like to incorporate Tim Elmore's book, Habitudes, into the curriculum.
Engineering Solar Energy Transportation (Cheryl Peters / White Lake Middle School)
With the K’NEX Education “Investigating Solar Energy” Kits, students will gain hands-on STEM and NGSS related experiences by designing, building, and testing various solar powered cars. By participating directly in the science and engineering process, students will gain first hand knowledge of NGSS science and engineering practices while enhancing their core knowledge base in the area of human impact on the environment.
Growing Green for Emerald (Cheryl Peters / White Lake Middle School)
Growing Green Gardens: Students become actual gardeners and horticulturists by both propagating plants and growing various vegetable and flowers from seed. This grant will supply the materials for students to continue to use the Greenhouses aproved by prior HVEF grants.
High School Grants
Raspberry Pi Arcade Project (Isaac Perry / Lakeland High School)
Imagine launching three sections of an AP-level Computer Science class, seeing students fully engaged with collaborative learning experiences and hands-on projects involving the fundamentals of coding, programming, and the principles of the technology field. Hardly a spare moment exists in a class period, but when one does arise, students yearn for entertaining ways to extend their learning. Enter the Raspberry Pi programmable arcade station. My goal is to purchase supplies and materials necessary for each class to build, program, and enjoy their very own arcade game, and that is exactly what this project will provide!
Collaborative Learning Through Breakout Edu Boxes (Kelsey Breen / Milford High School)
Breakout EDU kits allows students to learn to work together to accomplish a task. As a building, we are focusing on different ways of teaching so that students learn information differently. Breakout EDU boxes have games for all different subjects and allow students to engage in educational topics while utilizing critical thinking, problem solving, and troubleshooting skills. Working with teams also allows the members to collaborate and communicate with each other; a skill that needs developing in our technology focused world. As the Media Tech, I will house the kits in the library and assist building teachers in running the programs.
The Gravity Light Project (Dave Browne / Milford High School)
There is a new invention that utilizes potential energy to create electricity. It essentially uses the controlled fall of a weight to turn on a light bulb. The initial inventor designed We are hopeful that this invention can not only work as a tool to teach potential, kinetic and mechanical energy, but also work as a tool for inspiration to help our students dream of ways to solve some of the worlds problems and use their knowledge of science for the betterment of humanity.
Supporting Life Skills Through Camping (Jennifer Grubb / Milford High School)
This grant supports our cognitively impaired teenage population, who benefit from direct instruction and opportunities to practice functional independence in a variety of environments. Students will experience an overnight outing at a local campsite, camping in small groups with peers and a staff and/or family members. Skills addressed include choice making, food planning and preparation, community safety, hygiene, self-care, and social skills. They will choose from various leisure activities, including fishing, boating, swimming, hiking, bonfires, a dance and a team scavenger. Students will address personal health, safety and hygiene, general fire and water safety. Students will follow maps and directions for setup of their campsite.
Moving Toward Independence (Jaime Felt / Apollo Early Childhood Center)
At the Apollo Center we have opened a classroom that services our most impaired Special Education 3-5 year old students. Most of our students are not mobile and learn the world by exploring through rolling/crawling through their day. The mats will allow our students to be in a clean, safe environment while exploring their world to activate switches to aid in their communication and reach for cause/effect toys to provide sensory awareness.
One School, One Book (Susan Black / Heritage Elementary School)
One School, One Book is a school wide book club. During the month of March for "Reading Month" I would like to focus on bullying as part of the Positivity Project at our school. The HVEF grant will be used to purchase the book "Restart" by Gordon Korman for students in grades 2-5. This book lends itself to many discussions on bullying, making choices, how to treat others and overbearing sports parents.
GENERATION(s) CONNECT (Leisa Zelinski / Heritage Elementary School)
GENERATIONS CONNECT! With our face paced world of ongoing technological advancements, we have lost pieces of the human connection. Our students have never lived in a world of having to "wait." Everything is at their fingertips and is there fast! While technology has helped our world grow in so many positive ways, it has also changed human connections. I strongly believe that we have a responsibility to encourage and foster face to face contact. My plan is to join with Independence Village, in White Lake, to create a "buddy" program between our fifth grade and the elderly residents!
Let Your Drum Speak Your Mind (Sylvia LaPratt / Heritage Elementary School)
A drum circle fosters collaboration, creativity, improvisation, and acceptance - important attributes in today's world. By adding those djembes, a tubano, and the middle Eastern drums, we would be closer to our drum circle. My students would benefit greatly from opportunities where they can just simply be themselves, without being judged, in a safe environment. They are assessed many times during a school day. I would love for them to let go of the stress and pressure, just to dive into making music together with their friends. Taking turns, listening, being spontaneous - those are just a few things my students can gain from a drum circle experience
Reading & Riding the Great Lakes (Jennifer Pipkin / Oxbow Elementary School)
I am proposing to purchase a Pedal Desk Bike for my students. Also, I would like to purchase Michigan books to help support my 3rd grade curriculum on Michigan Geography, Economic, Civics/Government, and History units. Both of these items will be a part of our Reading and Riding The Great Lakes of Michigan, as my project based learning objective for this school year. This grant will allow students the opportunity to learn about our State of Michigan that aligns directly with our curriculum, reading and researching Michigan literacy books, promoting a healthy lifestyle while supporting my kinesthetic learners. We will keep track of the miles we pedaled around the Great Lakes while recording our activity on a bulletin board for all visual learners. This authentic year long project will be a collaborative effort for all students to be part of our learning community that works together for success.
Music-Go-Rounds - Music Theory at Your Fingertips (Sylvia LaPratt / Spring Mills Elementary School)
These new silicone Music-Go-Rounds are a hands-on approach to music theory and composing, in a world full of technology and touchscreens. These colorful circles stick to white boards and smooth surfaces, making them a great tool to teach dynamics, tempo, solfege, rhythms, introduction to note reading, and many more musical concepts. They are fun-to-touch, flexible, easy to clean, and appeal to all learning types - visual, aural, verbal, kinesthetic, social and solitary learners. They are very versatile as they can be used for whole classroom instruction, but also in music centers where students can create music one element at a time.
Middle School Grants
Commission That (Kristen Blanchard / Muir Middle School)
This is the SECOND part of a grant proposal for which I already received grant money. My original proposal, called COMMISSION THIS! was written 2 years ago. This project and grant was for a music commission by composer, Tyler S. Grant of Alabama. With the first grant, we were able to start the commission and even get students involved in the process. This commission will be a 2-3 minute piece of music dedicated to the current and former band students at Muir MS. Two years ago, the students had an opportunity to fill out a Google Form, in which they were asked what type of piece they would like to see written, what style, what features they wanted and any other characteristics that they thought would be appropriate for a piece of music written for OUR band. The feedback was incredible. The students were thoughtful and insightful. This has really helped our composer get a feel for our kids and our community. "COMMISSION THAT!" would allow our composer, Mr. Tyler S. Grant, to come to Milford, MI on March 4, 2019 as a part of our March Musical Madness. He will be welcomed as our Composer in Residence. He will be here for the entire day, working with our kids on HIS piece that he has written for us and we will perform in a concert that evening. This grant proposal will pay for his appearance, flight, hotel and other expenses. This is an amazing opportunity for our music students!
Building a Community (Carrie Bradley / Muir Middle School)
Team 702 is comprised of roughly 130 students. Students will be spending time this year in several units looking for successful ways to eliminate stereotypes. The overall goal with this project is to have several units and community building team events throughout the year that focus on diversity awareness, acceptance, and respect.
Building Independence in Real Life (Trina Buell / Muir Middle School)
Independence is the goal for all. The paths we take and tools we utilize to reach this goal differs between individuals. The students in the three Categorical Classrooms at Muir need real life experiences to practice the life skills necessary for independence. Rarely do our students to have the chance to stay away from home without depending on their families. We wish to provide our students the opportunity to attend an overnight camping trip to Camp Ohiyesa. This grant will give them the chance to experience camp with the support of the staff that works with them daily.
Promoting the Arts (Michelle Doggett / Muir Middle School)
Theatrical Performance has come alive at Muir Middle School. Students would love to promote their play and talents through playbills and posters creatively designed by students ad then professionally printed by the Digital Document Store. Our elective four theater classes are just getting started and do not have funds to spend, until we perform our plays and charge audience members. We would love to have the HVEF support the arts and this new elective acting program. Our students want to promote their play, their hard-work, and their creative side by having playbills made to introduce our cast and crew. The posters would be put on display throughout the school and communities to showcase and promote the six different plays for the year.
Creating a Caring Community (Jennifer Hollander / Muir Middle School)
Defeat the Label is a non-profit organization that empowers students to stand up for change and to stand up for each other. Muir is bringing their Upstander Program to all our 7th grade students again this year. This program brings the issue of bullying to the forefront of students’ social consciousness and empowers them to create a safe and bully free school. The Upstander program facilitator presents one hour lessons, once a month, in each of our 7th grade classrooms throughout the school year.
Developing Ethical Consumers Through Real Life Research (Julie Puffer / Muir Middle School)
That which we consume has numerous effects on our health, the environment, the economy, and our communities. The Omnivore’s Dilemma: Young Readers Edition will be used as a mentor text to develop informational reading, writing, and research skills. Students will connect with stakeholders in local food production and distribution through video conferencing calls and a trip to Chelsea, Michigan where they will tour the Jiffy Mix factory and the Tantre organic farm, to harvest and clean up fields. They will use the text study, their research, and their hands-on experiences to guide them in creating a multimedia argument speech.
Built for Success; We're in Business (Julie Puffer / Muir Middle School)
Capitalism seeps into the seams of so many aspects of our lives. Companies make claims about their products in order to inform and persuade customers. This proposal seeks to immerse students in an investigation of well-known businesses, while learning informational reading and writing, research, and presentation skills. Students will collaborate to craft a marketing website for an existing company. As a culmination, students will develop their own business or non-profit idea to present in a Shark Tank-style pitch. As they assess their peers’ pitches, students will get to “invest” in one product for our class Shark Tank.
Breaking out of the Box (Kathy Adriansen / Oak Valley Middle School)
Students love hands-on learning, and the Breakout EDU program provides that opportunity! Working together, students solve a series of puzzles to try to unlock their box. They explore various subjects while they “game” in real life! Topics available which augment our curriculum include figurative language, body systems, coding, Ancient Egypt, map skills, CTE, the arts, and more! To break down each class into small groups for maximum participation, we would like to purchase the bundle of six boxes with access codes. (We borrowed boxes for a trial run in smaller classes this week; the students were fully engaged!)
Programming Laptop for FTC (Stacy Kolassa / Oak Valley Middle School)
The FTC Robotics Team is in need of laptops for programming their robots. The students program in Android Studio which will not run on the old laptops that we currently have.
Holocaust Museum Visit (Sharee Cesarov / White Lake Middle School)
The objective of teaching middle school students about the Holocaust is to encourage our students to reflect and make connections to the prejudices and destruction endured by innocent people during this horrific time in our history. Visiting the Holocaust Memorial students are assigned a guide who is able to bring to life the exhibits.The highlight of this trip is when a Holocaust survivor tells their personal story of their life during this time. It also allows students to ask questions. How many more opportunities will students have to meet with the actual survivors of the Holocaust. It is truly a moving experience!
A Year with the Ann Arbor Symphony (Heather Fitzpatrick / White Lake Middle School)
Let's spend time with the Ann Arbor Symphony! Students will be working with professional musicians from the Ann Arbor Symphony once a month. During these sessions they will interact with the musicians and have the opportunity to learn new techniques, hear some great music, and interact with the pros. We will then travel to Ann Arbor to hear the entire Symphony in a Young People's concert in March.
Habitudes: Images That Form Leadership Habits and Attitudes (Darci LaRowe / White Lake Middle School)
White Lake Middle School is proud to center it's Leadership class around the WEB program. WEB stands for “Where Everybody Belongs” and is a middle school orientation and transition program that empowers our 8th Grade Leadership students to welcome our 6th graders and makes them feel comfortable throughout the first year of their middle school experience. WEB is built on the belief that students can help fellow students succeed. As positive role models, WEB Leaders are mentors and student leaders who guide the 6th graders to better learn what it takes to be successful during the transition to middle school and help facilitate the success of our 6th graders. To further enrich this program, we would like to incorporate Tim Elmore's book, Habitudes, into the curriculum.
Engineering Solar Energy Transportation (Cheryl Peters / White Lake Middle School)
With the K’NEX Education “Investigating Solar Energy” Kits, students will gain hands-on STEM and NGSS related experiences by designing, building, and testing various solar powered cars. By participating directly in the science and engineering process, students will gain first hand knowledge of NGSS science and engineering practices while enhancing their core knowledge base in the area of human impact on the environment.
Growing Green for Emerald (Cheryl Peters / White Lake Middle School)
Growing Green Gardens: Students become actual gardeners and horticulturists by both propagating plants and growing various vegetable and flowers from seed. This grant will supply the materials for students to continue to use the Greenhouses aproved by prior HVEF grants.
High School Grants
Raspberry Pi Arcade Project (Isaac Perry / Lakeland High School)
Imagine launching three sections of an AP-level Computer Science class, seeing students fully engaged with collaborative learning experiences and hands-on projects involving the fundamentals of coding, programming, and the principles of the technology field. Hardly a spare moment exists in a class period, but when one does arise, students yearn for entertaining ways to extend their learning. Enter the Raspberry Pi programmable arcade station. My goal is to purchase supplies and materials necessary for each class to build, program, and enjoy their very own arcade game, and that is exactly what this project will provide!
Collaborative Learning Through Breakout Edu Boxes (Kelsey Breen / Milford High School)
Breakout EDU kits allows students to learn to work together to accomplish a task. As a building, we are focusing on different ways of teaching so that students learn information differently. Breakout EDU boxes have games for all different subjects and allow students to engage in educational topics while utilizing critical thinking, problem solving, and troubleshooting skills. Working with teams also allows the members to collaborate and communicate with each other; a skill that needs developing in our technology focused world. As the Media Tech, I will house the kits in the library and assist building teachers in running the programs.
The Gravity Light Project (Dave Browne / Milford High School)
There is a new invention that utilizes potential energy to create electricity. It essentially uses the controlled fall of a weight to turn on a light bulb. The initial inventor designed We are hopeful that this invention can not only work as a tool to teach potential, kinetic and mechanical energy, but also work as a tool for inspiration to help our students dream of ways to solve some of the worlds problems and use their knowledge of science for the betterment of humanity.
Supporting Life Skills Through Camping (Jennifer Grubb / Milford High School)
This grant supports our cognitively impaired teenage population, who benefit from direct instruction and opportunities to practice functional independence in a variety of environments. Students will experience an overnight outing at a local campsite, camping in small groups with peers and a staff and/or family members. Skills addressed include choice making, food planning and preparation, community safety, hygiene, self-care, and social skills. They will choose from various leisure activities, including fishing, boating, swimming, hiking, bonfires, a dance and a team scavenger. Students will address personal health, safety and hygiene, general fire and water safety. Students will follow maps and directions for setup of their campsite.
Huron Valley Educational Foundation
2017-18 Grant Summaries
Elementary School Grants
One School, One Book (Susan Black / Heritage Elementary School)
“One School One Book” is a program through readtothem.org where the whole school K-5, from teachers to bus drivers, read and discuss the same book for a month. Once a book title is selected, a copy is purchased and given to each family in the school. One School One Book promotes family literacy. Families read the book together. Studies have shown that family literacy programs improve children’s achievement in school and they are more likely to attend school more regularly. It has also been shown to improve their oral language and vocabulary.
Coding with Sphero Minis (Phillip Fugate / Lakewood Elementary School)
All of our students use technology in their lives, but do they use it in a way that will give them advantages in the future? Students will learn how to do basic programming and coding with these Sphero Minis. They will learn how to do this in a fun and engaging way. After students learn basic coding, they will move on the the numerous STEM challenges that Sphero offers. The experience students gain from this opportunity will give them an advantage in future science and mathematics endeavors. Students will find out that math and coding can actually be fun, not intimidating.
Coding into the 21st Century (Lyndsey Kiebel / Lakewood Elementary School)
Educators across the country are bringing a variety of technology into the classroom, not only to actively engage students, but also as a new way to develop essential learning objectives. With Sphero, we can enrich our learners with STEM related concepts building on what we have learned.
Screen reader support enabled. To enable screen reader support, press Ctrl+Alt+Z To learn about keyboard shortcuts, press Ctrl+slash
Go Fish For Music! (Sylvia LaPratt / Spring Mills Elementary School)
Last year, I asked a group of students to play a "Go Fish" game with instrument cards. I realized that many of them had no idea how to play "Go Fish". Children today know how to play a lot of video games, but they don't know how to play basic card games. There are many card games that support the musical curriculum. I would love to see my students learn about musical concepts while also practicing how to play traditional card games.
The 3rd Annual Reading Wagon (Stacy Rennie / Country Oaks Elementary School)
The Reading Wagon is a program designed for the students living in the Commerce Meadows Park. The program puts books in the hands of children that may not have those resources at home. Thanks to your support, we successfully donated over 100 brand-new books to the children of Commerce Meadows last summer. The program has become so successful and widespread on Facebook, that parents have asked if we can include more neighborhoods this summer. This HVEF Grant could allow us to do just that!
Yes Uke Can! (Jim Shouldice / Highland Elementary School)
The “Yes Uke Can!” project will purchase a classroom set of ukuleles for Highland Elementary. Ukuleles are a popular and cost-effective instrument for learning music in the upper elementary. Students will learn various chords and strumming techniques as well as expand their musical vocabulary by learning to play songs from various genres including folk, pop, and rock. Additionally, learning to accompany songs on the ukulele will equip students to make music outside of school enabling them to continue engaging in music making long after they have left the elementary general music classroom.
Middle School Grants
Moving is Matter (Caryl Barber / White Lake Middle School)
This grant will allow White Lake Middle School science students to a real time interaction with data they collect on temperature and motion. Students will connect their data to movement in real time to graphs of velocity. position, time and temperature and be able to analyze them and compare with others. This grant will support students to complete multiple investigations driven by students’ questions with a range of possible outcomes that collectively lead to a deep understanding of established core scientific ideas. They will then be able to use the evidence collected to support the claims and be able to constructively argue with reason. Provision of this grant will support all students so they can engage in sophisticated science and engineering practices.
STEAM Mill Generators (Dave Browne / Oak Valley Middle School)
8th grade students will build and install 4 wind turbines through a cross curricular effort between science, 21 skills, tech ed, and design. Students in science will study how wind turbines generate power and locate an optimum location for generators on Oak Valley’s campus. 21 skills students will construct 3D virtual models of the turbines, while design students will create physical models. Lastly, 8th grade Tech Ed students will design and install the turbines. Teachers will seek help from community electricians to complete the project. We hope this could serve as a model for further projects throughout the district.
Leaving a Lasting Legacy (Dave Browne / Oak Valley Middle School)
Last year students started a tradition tied to our human impact unit that would leave a lasting impact on Oak Valley. This year the students have chosen a solar panel system. This would greatly reduce OV’s carbon footprint. Students will work with businesses and the community to raise additional funds. In addition to reducing the electric bill, students will create an onsite teaching tool for current and future students. The system will have a monitor that will allow for study on how weather and other variables come into play to determine the power output of the cells.
Amplifying Student Voices (Roberta Diacono / Muir Middle School)
Students must be given frequent opportunities to stretch their communication skills in order to be competitive in today’s society. One way that we build our students’ communication skills is through video recording. In our Production Skills class and in many other classes throughout the school, students are asked to create video recordings to be shared with an audience. The students do an excellent job of script writing, collaborating, and video editing; however, they are finding it frustrating to create polished recordings without having the proper audio equipment. This proposal seeks to provide digital microphones and equipment to be used in student video projects.
It's Getting STEAMy in Here (Stacy Kolassa / Oak Valley Middle School)
The FTC program is a competitive robotics program for middle school students. The students design, build and program their own robot that they take to competitions. The FTC students are mentored by the high school FRC students throughout their competition season. FTC and FRC are part of the FIRST program that encourages the application of STEAM concepts while practicing Gracious Professionalism.
Pound: Rock Out! Work Out! (Darci LaRowe / White Lake Middle School)
Cardio Drumming combines traditional aerobic movements with the powerful beat and rhythm of drums. Instead of beating on a drum, however, students will jam out on a large exercise ball with a pair of drumsticks, unleashing their inner rock stars. Cardio Drumming can have positive effects on one's health and may help with many conditions from stress, fatigue, and anxiety, to hypertension, asthma, chronic pain, arthritis, mental illness, addiction, and even cancer.
Hands-On History! (Sheree Lozon / Muir Middle School)
Students often express a desire for hands-on learning, which can be hard to accomplish in a history class. I have found in the past, that offering replica early American toys (such as a whirligig and a cup in ball) generates a great deal of excitement and interest in the cultural history of our country. Students can often be found playing with the toys during passing periods and stretch breaks - it is the first stop for many of them. The toys were so loved that, sadly, they have deteriorated the last 2 years and are no longer functional. I would love to provide this year's students with the same opportunity to bring history alive in the classroom.
Vex Robotics (Jason Vallimont / Muir Middle School)
The Vex IQ program is a competitive robotics program for elementary and middle school students. The students design, build and program their own robot that they take to competitions. Vex is a national program that transitions well into our district's FTC and FRC (Middle and High School Robotics) programs. In addition, this is a great way to teach students the engineering process and coding in our 21st century courses as well.
Overnight Camp with Friends! (Eric Williams / Muir Middle School)
Overnight Camp with Friends will include three Categorical Classrooms from Muir Middle School, we support students with Cognitive Impairments and Autism. We will take the students for an overnight trip at Camp Ohiyesa. For most of the students, this will be there first overnight stay without their parents. During camp we will work on many different skills that we work on in class. Some skills we will work on are social skills, peer interaction, safety skills, daily living skills, grooming, hygiene and many more. Also, we plan to have many different leisure activities. Some of these activities include boating, arts and crafts, games, hiking, swimming and many more. This camp will give us a great opportunity to enhance our classroom lesson in an outside environment.
High School Grants
So Sew (Sheri Germane / Milford High School)
Success in life is often directly related to a high self-esteem. Our proposal involves the purchase of two sewing machines for use in an adult transition program for special needs post high-school students. Our goal is to partner with senior citizens to teach the students to sew simple items, such as a pillow case or apron. By establishing a budget for materials, the students will be able to select their material from a local fabric store, cut the fabric, and sew it together with supervision. We believe the learn to sew initiative will become a catalyst for creative learning while allowing the students to take pride in something they create with their own efforts.
So Sew (Sheri Germane / Milford High School)
Success in life is often directly related to a high self-esteem. Our proposal involves the purchase of two sewing machines for use in an adult transition program for special needs post high-school students. Our goal is to partner with senior citizens to teach the students to sew simple items, such as a pillow case or apron. By establishing a budget for materials, the students will be able to select their material from a local fabric store, cut the fabric, and sew it together with supervision. We believe the learn to sew initiative will become a catalyst for creative learning while allowing the students to take pride in something they create with their own efforts.
Supporting Life Skills Through Camping (Jennifer Grubb / Milford High School)
This trip supports our cognitively impaired teenage population, who benefit from direct instruction and opportunities to practice functional independence in a variety of environments. Students will experience an overnight outing at a local campsite, camping in small groups with peers and a staff and/or family members. Skills addressed include choice making, food planning and preparation, community safety, hygiene, self-care, and social skills. They will choose from various leisure activities, including fishing, boating, swimming, hiking, bonfires. Students will address personal health, safety and hygiene, general fire and water safety. Students will follow maps and directions for setup of their campsite.
Turn a "Who done it?" into an "I did it!" (Marti Love / Lakeland High School)
ASD students will immerse themselves in mystery solving scenarios to address active learning skills and activities that may be particularly challenging for them. Skills to be addressed, include: reciprocal conversation, listening, turn taking, eye contact, critical thinking, deductive reasoning, identifying and understanding inference , dramatization, and finally, coping with unstructured and unexpected learning opportunities.
Personal Finance Technology Aids (Heather Lutz / Milford High School)
Personal finance is a semester long math course for seniors which infuses technology into the classroom on a regular basis. We watch an EverFi tutorial approximately once each week for Units 2, 3 and 4. These tutorials reinforce student learning on topics such as insurance & taxes, higher education, consumer protection. We also take advantage of Dave Ramsey's online course videos when they dovetail with our course learning targets. Our final unit of the course, Business and Consumer Finance Applications, involves an online simulation project by Knowledge Matters. Students need headphones to listen to the tutorials and videos for these online activities. Many students do not have headphones and if they do, they don't often plug into our class set of Chromebooks. It would be wonderful to have a class set available on the days that we infuse technology into our classroom.
Lakeland Technology Maker Space (Isaac Perry / Lakeland High School)
The Lakeland Technology Maker Space will allow interested to students to learn about computer assembly, components and their functions, as well as computer science and coding principles through hands-on experiences with real working parts available in the Media Center. The Maker Space would support the implementation of Lakeland's Coding Club as well as future Computer Science classes, including AP Computer Science and Cybersecurity.
Breakout EDU Boxes (Maggie Whitehead / Lakeland High School)
Breakout is an immersive, collaborative game that can be used in any subject area. Breakout games teach teamwork, critical thinking, inference making, and complex problem solving, and promote inquiry-based learning. They are also highly engaging for students. I currently have one Breakout EDU box and my ELA 9 Foundations students love using it for Breakout activities; however, with classes as large as 34 students it is impossible to have my other, larger classes complete a Breakout. I am seeking funds for three additional boxes so I can utilize Breakouts in all my classes by dividing my students up into smaller groups when doing Breakouts in class. You can learn more about Breakout EDU by visiting this website: https://www.breakoutedu.com/
Making Waves with Technology (Laurie Worthington / Lakeland High School)
The Next Generation Science Standards require students to understand waves and their application in information transfer technologies such as cell phones and the internet…almost everything in a student’s life. Students will discover and model EM radiation as both wave and particle using a ripple tank system, LED resistor boards and other science tools. Existing chrome books and video apps will be used to record, identify and analyze wave behavior formed in the ripple tank. Through guided inquiry practices and use of the claim, evidence and reasoning framework, students will make waves in their understanding of technology in their world today!
District-Wide Grants
Art for Life (Georgia Bingham / HVCA)
With your continued support the HVCA is able to provide the "Arts" to the students of Huron Valley Schools. We would bring back Watroba/Jones to the 8th graders. This program enhances the American History curriculum and brings understanding of how music was used during the Slavery Era to help emancipate the slaves. Working to bring a "theater" experience to our 2nd graders, we are excited to continue supporting this event. Our focus will be introducing classic tales from a variety of counties around the world. This year we may use music to introduce the cultural tales. Our Apollo Preschool program is intended to introduce music/theater/puppetry to the little ones. We can provide a variety of artists to expose the children to a variety of music/theater programs. Many of these children have never been exposed to live entertainment.
One School, One Book (Susan Black / Heritage Elementary School)
“One School One Book” is a program through readtothem.org where the whole school K-5, from teachers to bus drivers, read and discuss the same book for a month. Once a book title is selected, a copy is purchased and given to each family in the school. One School One Book promotes family literacy. Families read the book together. Studies have shown that family literacy programs improve children’s achievement in school and they are more likely to attend school more regularly. It has also been shown to improve their oral language and vocabulary.
Coding with Sphero Minis (Phillip Fugate / Lakewood Elementary School)
All of our students use technology in their lives, but do they use it in a way that will give them advantages in the future? Students will learn how to do basic programming and coding with these Sphero Minis. They will learn how to do this in a fun and engaging way. After students learn basic coding, they will move on the the numerous STEM challenges that Sphero offers. The experience students gain from this opportunity will give them an advantage in future science and mathematics endeavors. Students will find out that math and coding can actually be fun, not intimidating.
Coding into the 21st Century (Lyndsey Kiebel / Lakewood Elementary School)
Educators across the country are bringing a variety of technology into the classroom, not only to actively engage students, but also as a new way to develop essential learning objectives. With Sphero, we can enrich our learners with STEM related concepts building on what we have learned.
Screen reader support enabled. To enable screen reader support, press Ctrl+Alt+Z To learn about keyboard shortcuts, press Ctrl+slash
Go Fish For Music! (Sylvia LaPratt / Spring Mills Elementary School)
Last year, I asked a group of students to play a "Go Fish" game with instrument cards. I realized that many of them had no idea how to play "Go Fish". Children today know how to play a lot of video games, but they don't know how to play basic card games. There are many card games that support the musical curriculum. I would love to see my students learn about musical concepts while also practicing how to play traditional card games.
The 3rd Annual Reading Wagon (Stacy Rennie / Country Oaks Elementary School)
The Reading Wagon is a program designed for the students living in the Commerce Meadows Park. The program puts books in the hands of children that may not have those resources at home. Thanks to your support, we successfully donated over 100 brand-new books to the children of Commerce Meadows last summer. The program has become so successful and widespread on Facebook, that parents have asked if we can include more neighborhoods this summer. This HVEF Grant could allow us to do just that!
Yes Uke Can! (Jim Shouldice / Highland Elementary School)
The “Yes Uke Can!” project will purchase a classroom set of ukuleles for Highland Elementary. Ukuleles are a popular and cost-effective instrument for learning music in the upper elementary. Students will learn various chords and strumming techniques as well as expand their musical vocabulary by learning to play songs from various genres including folk, pop, and rock. Additionally, learning to accompany songs on the ukulele will equip students to make music outside of school enabling them to continue engaging in music making long after they have left the elementary general music classroom.
Middle School Grants
Moving is Matter (Caryl Barber / White Lake Middle School)
This grant will allow White Lake Middle School science students to a real time interaction with data they collect on temperature and motion. Students will connect their data to movement in real time to graphs of velocity. position, time and temperature and be able to analyze them and compare with others. This grant will support students to complete multiple investigations driven by students’ questions with a range of possible outcomes that collectively lead to a deep understanding of established core scientific ideas. They will then be able to use the evidence collected to support the claims and be able to constructively argue with reason. Provision of this grant will support all students so they can engage in sophisticated science and engineering practices.
STEAM Mill Generators (Dave Browne / Oak Valley Middle School)
8th grade students will build and install 4 wind turbines through a cross curricular effort between science, 21 skills, tech ed, and design. Students in science will study how wind turbines generate power and locate an optimum location for generators on Oak Valley’s campus. 21 skills students will construct 3D virtual models of the turbines, while design students will create physical models. Lastly, 8th grade Tech Ed students will design and install the turbines. Teachers will seek help from community electricians to complete the project. We hope this could serve as a model for further projects throughout the district.
Leaving a Lasting Legacy (Dave Browne / Oak Valley Middle School)
Last year students started a tradition tied to our human impact unit that would leave a lasting impact on Oak Valley. This year the students have chosen a solar panel system. This would greatly reduce OV’s carbon footprint. Students will work with businesses and the community to raise additional funds. In addition to reducing the electric bill, students will create an onsite teaching tool for current and future students. The system will have a monitor that will allow for study on how weather and other variables come into play to determine the power output of the cells.
Amplifying Student Voices (Roberta Diacono / Muir Middle School)
Students must be given frequent opportunities to stretch their communication skills in order to be competitive in today’s society. One way that we build our students’ communication skills is through video recording. In our Production Skills class and in many other classes throughout the school, students are asked to create video recordings to be shared with an audience. The students do an excellent job of script writing, collaborating, and video editing; however, they are finding it frustrating to create polished recordings without having the proper audio equipment. This proposal seeks to provide digital microphones and equipment to be used in student video projects.
It's Getting STEAMy in Here (Stacy Kolassa / Oak Valley Middle School)
The FTC program is a competitive robotics program for middle school students. The students design, build and program their own robot that they take to competitions. The FTC students are mentored by the high school FRC students throughout their competition season. FTC and FRC are part of the FIRST program that encourages the application of STEAM concepts while practicing Gracious Professionalism.
Pound: Rock Out! Work Out! (Darci LaRowe / White Lake Middle School)
Cardio Drumming combines traditional aerobic movements with the powerful beat and rhythm of drums. Instead of beating on a drum, however, students will jam out on a large exercise ball with a pair of drumsticks, unleashing their inner rock stars. Cardio Drumming can have positive effects on one's health and may help with many conditions from stress, fatigue, and anxiety, to hypertension, asthma, chronic pain, arthritis, mental illness, addiction, and even cancer.
Hands-On History! (Sheree Lozon / Muir Middle School)
Students often express a desire for hands-on learning, which can be hard to accomplish in a history class. I have found in the past, that offering replica early American toys (such as a whirligig and a cup in ball) generates a great deal of excitement and interest in the cultural history of our country. Students can often be found playing with the toys during passing periods and stretch breaks - it is the first stop for many of them. The toys were so loved that, sadly, they have deteriorated the last 2 years and are no longer functional. I would love to provide this year's students with the same opportunity to bring history alive in the classroom.
Vex Robotics (Jason Vallimont / Muir Middle School)
The Vex IQ program is a competitive robotics program for elementary and middle school students. The students design, build and program their own robot that they take to competitions. Vex is a national program that transitions well into our district's FTC and FRC (Middle and High School Robotics) programs. In addition, this is a great way to teach students the engineering process and coding in our 21st century courses as well.
Overnight Camp with Friends! (Eric Williams / Muir Middle School)
Overnight Camp with Friends will include three Categorical Classrooms from Muir Middle School, we support students with Cognitive Impairments and Autism. We will take the students for an overnight trip at Camp Ohiyesa. For most of the students, this will be there first overnight stay without their parents. During camp we will work on many different skills that we work on in class. Some skills we will work on are social skills, peer interaction, safety skills, daily living skills, grooming, hygiene and many more. Also, we plan to have many different leisure activities. Some of these activities include boating, arts and crafts, games, hiking, swimming and many more. This camp will give us a great opportunity to enhance our classroom lesson in an outside environment.
High School Grants
So Sew (Sheri Germane / Milford High School)
Success in life is often directly related to a high self-esteem. Our proposal involves the purchase of two sewing machines for use in an adult transition program for special needs post high-school students. Our goal is to partner with senior citizens to teach the students to sew simple items, such as a pillow case or apron. By establishing a budget for materials, the students will be able to select their material from a local fabric store, cut the fabric, and sew it together with supervision. We believe the learn to sew initiative will become a catalyst for creative learning while allowing the students to take pride in something they create with their own efforts.
So Sew (Sheri Germane / Milford High School)
Success in life is often directly related to a high self-esteem. Our proposal involves the purchase of two sewing machines for use in an adult transition program for special needs post high-school students. Our goal is to partner with senior citizens to teach the students to sew simple items, such as a pillow case or apron. By establishing a budget for materials, the students will be able to select their material from a local fabric store, cut the fabric, and sew it together with supervision. We believe the learn to sew initiative will become a catalyst for creative learning while allowing the students to take pride in something they create with their own efforts.
Supporting Life Skills Through Camping (Jennifer Grubb / Milford High School)
This trip supports our cognitively impaired teenage population, who benefit from direct instruction and opportunities to practice functional independence in a variety of environments. Students will experience an overnight outing at a local campsite, camping in small groups with peers and a staff and/or family members. Skills addressed include choice making, food planning and preparation, community safety, hygiene, self-care, and social skills. They will choose from various leisure activities, including fishing, boating, swimming, hiking, bonfires. Students will address personal health, safety and hygiene, general fire and water safety. Students will follow maps and directions for setup of their campsite.
Turn a "Who done it?" into an "I did it!" (Marti Love / Lakeland High School)
ASD students will immerse themselves in mystery solving scenarios to address active learning skills and activities that may be particularly challenging for them. Skills to be addressed, include: reciprocal conversation, listening, turn taking, eye contact, critical thinking, deductive reasoning, identifying and understanding inference , dramatization, and finally, coping with unstructured and unexpected learning opportunities.
Personal Finance Technology Aids (Heather Lutz / Milford High School)
Personal finance is a semester long math course for seniors which infuses technology into the classroom on a regular basis. We watch an EverFi tutorial approximately once each week for Units 2, 3 and 4. These tutorials reinforce student learning on topics such as insurance & taxes, higher education, consumer protection. We also take advantage of Dave Ramsey's online course videos when they dovetail with our course learning targets. Our final unit of the course, Business and Consumer Finance Applications, involves an online simulation project by Knowledge Matters. Students need headphones to listen to the tutorials and videos for these online activities. Many students do not have headphones and if they do, they don't often plug into our class set of Chromebooks. It would be wonderful to have a class set available on the days that we infuse technology into our classroom.
Lakeland Technology Maker Space (Isaac Perry / Lakeland High School)
The Lakeland Technology Maker Space will allow interested to students to learn about computer assembly, components and their functions, as well as computer science and coding principles through hands-on experiences with real working parts available in the Media Center. The Maker Space would support the implementation of Lakeland's Coding Club as well as future Computer Science classes, including AP Computer Science and Cybersecurity.
Breakout EDU Boxes (Maggie Whitehead / Lakeland High School)
Breakout is an immersive, collaborative game that can be used in any subject area. Breakout games teach teamwork, critical thinking, inference making, and complex problem solving, and promote inquiry-based learning. They are also highly engaging for students. I currently have one Breakout EDU box and my ELA 9 Foundations students love using it for Breakout activities; however, with classes as large as 34 students it is impossible to have my other, larger classes complete a Breakout. I am seeking funds for three additional boxes so I can utilize Breakouts in all my classes by dividing my students up into smaller groups when doing Breakouts in class. You can learn more about Breakout EDU by visiting this website: https://www.breakoutedu.com/
Making Waves with Technology (Laurie Worthington / Lakeland High School)
The Next Generation Science Standards require students to understand waves and their application in information transfer technologies such as cell phones and the internet…almost everything in a student’s life. Students will discover and model EM radiation as both wave and particle using a ripple tank system, LED resistor boards and other science tools. Existing chrome books and video apps will be used to record, identify and analyze wave behavior formed in the ripple tank. Through guided inquiry practices and use of the claim, evidence and reasoning framework, students will make waves in their understanding of technology in their world today!
District-Wide Grants
Art for Life (Georgia Bingham / HVCA)
With your continued support the HVCA is able to provide the "Arts" to the students of Huron Valley Schools. We would bring back Watroba/Jones to the 8th graders. This program enhances the American History curriculum and brings understanding of how music was used during the Slavery Era to help emancipate the slaves. Working to bring a "theater" experience to our 2nd graders, we are excited to continue supporting this event. Our focus will be introducing classic tales from a variety of counties around the world. This year we may use music to introduce the cultural tales. Our Apollo Preschool program is intended to introduce music/theater/puppetry to the little ones. We can provide a variety of artists to expose the children to a variety of music/theater programs. Many of these children have never been exposed to live entertainment.
Huron Valley Educational Foundation
2016-17 Grant Summaries
Elementary School Grants
Words Their Way for our Youngest Readers and Writers (Kalie Miller / Brooks Elementary School)
A Words Their Way grant would allow 100 students in Kindergarten and First Grade to examine, manipulate, and categorize words within a developed and researched word study program. These word study notebooks allow students to attend to critical features of words- sound, pattern, and meaning. Children love cutting these colorful words and pictures and using their higher level thinking skills to sort them into groups. The Word Study Notebooks are created to meet the needs of all students’ developmental stages of spelling and allow for emergent readers all the way through to those students who are proficient.
In honor of Regina W. Lehker
Children's Literature for Read Well Program (Nicole Fouty / Brooks Elementary School)
One of our special education reading intervention programs is Read Well. This is a fabulous program, but is didn't come with the suggested children's picture books. This children's literature would add an emergent, teacher-led literary piece that is currently missing with each Read Well teaching unit.
In honor of Sherry Stashonsky
Disc Golf to COE (Ryan Arnold / Country Oaks Elementary School)
My overall goal is to have a 9 hole disc golf course on our school property. I believe our socioeconomically diverse population would greatly benefit from this sport year round, as students in the many surrounding neighborhoods could use the permanently installed Disc Golf targets/ baskets at any time, even after school and during the summer months. Students of all ages involved in formal or informal games and tournaments would bring community members together. Most importantly, families and friends can share time together.
Reaching Every Child (Stacy Rennie / Country Oaks Elementary School)
A portion of this grant will be used to fund alternative seating in my classroom for students who have a difficult time sitting during class. With the $200, I will be able to purchase bumpy seats, bean bag chairs and other seating for children with sensory sensitivities. The remaining $200 will be used to purchase brand new books from our Buy One, Get One Book Fair that is held in April. These books will be used for our Reading Wagon Program, which puts books in the hands of students who may not have another means of getting these important resources. This past year, we used the generous donations given by Country Oaks teachers. However, this grant would provide these children with brand new books for their use.
"Uke" Can Play with Us!! (LesleyAnne Newsted / Kurtz Elementary School)
It's not that big of a step from ukulele to guitar, right? At least that is what our students will think and as a result many kids that never seemed that invested in elementary vocal music will suddenly find their inspiration. Could the next great rocker or country music star be right here at Kurtz? We want to find out! Bringing 17 ukuleles to the Kurtz music classroom will help us to reach kids and inspire them to find their voice in music.
Loving Literature for Life (Marie Waters / Lakewood Elementary School)
Getting students to read every night can be difficult. Using Technology is a huge motivator for students. Finding books that they love is too! I want a love of reading to be born that will last a lifetime! Using Storia's Third Grade Collection of 150 texts will motivate my students to read at school using our class set of Kindles, and any tablet or PC at home. The more they read, the more confidence they will have and the better they will perform.
STEM Learning Science Kits (Julie Sheldon / Spring Mills Elementary School)
STEM Learning Science Activity kits are hands-on science kits that will encourage our students to explore the scientific process alone, in small groups, or with the full class. With these kits, students will be able to build, expand, explore, along with helping them answer questions with real life problems. Each kit has eight different categories with materials, experiment cards, along with extension cards. This will help guide our students into making science fun, with hands-on opportunities, activities at different levels to challenge all styles in the class, and being aligned with NGSS.
In honor of Cathie Covert
Middle School Grants
Muir First Tech Challenge Robotics (Jason Vallimont / Muir Middle School)
The First Tech Challenge (FTC) program is one of a progression of programs from First Robotics. FTC puts middle school students in a competitive environment using STEM concepts. Students will design, build, and program a robot under the supervision of coaches, engineers, and high school FRC members. They will do this while using the FIRST core value of gracious professionalism, which is using the idea of friendly competition.
Fun 4 Kids Spring Camping (Andrea Moore / Muir Middle School)
Fun 4 Kids Spring Camping will include three Categorical Classrooms from Muir Middle School, we support students with Autism and Cognitive Impairments. We will be taking our students on an overnight camping trip to Camp Ohiyesa. This trip is to further develop our social skills as well as life skills that we work on routinely. Many students have never been away from home for even one night. We are planning to focus on peer interaction, safety skills, and basic daily living skills. We are also working to develop an interest in leisure time activities for all campers; i.e. arts and crafts, games, boating, hiking, swimming, etc.
Commission THIS! (Kristin Blanchard / Muir Middle School)
I met composer Tyler S. Grant a couple of years ago, at an International Music Conference in Chicago. He writes very accessible music for a young instrumental student. Myself, along with the Muir band students, liked his music so much that I hired him to come clinic and conduct our bands that year. Tyler is only 21 years old and lives in Alabama. His ability to compose music is amazing. With this funding, we will be able to put a deposit down on a 3 year commissioning project, where the completed product will be a piece of music written specifically for our band and then performed in public.
Rolling into Robotics (Julie Puffer / Muir Middle School)
Sphero app-enabled balls can engage students in learning to code through active learning challenges. While learning computer programming basics this past spring, many students excelled and wanted challenges beyond the programs that we were using. These students inspired us to look into more interactive robotics programming for our coding units for this school year. Robots allow students to bring their coding programs into the physical world and demand that students become more active in their computer-based learning. Sphero app-enabled balls engage students with coding on mobile devices and Chromebooks.
In honor of Michigan Net QMN
A Deeper Look: Reading Materials for the Artroom (Abigail Powers / Muir Middle School)
A Deeper look: Reading materials for the art room would help provided students with a deeper understanding of art history and give them a look at contemporary art issues in today's world all while helping to meet core art standards. These magazines will bring both reading and writing into the art room in a way that is fun and engaging for students.
Full STEAM Ahead (Stacy Kolassa / Oak Valley Middle School)
The FTC program is a competitive robotics program for middle school students. The students design, build and program their own robot that they take to competitions. The FTC students are mentored by the high school FRC students throughout their competition season. FTC and FRC are part of the FIRST program that encourages the application of STEM concepts while practicing Gracious Professionalism.
Using Data to Get Kids Moving (Terry Haren / Oak Valley Middle School)
We would like to create experiments to show kids how much calories they burn doing various activities. We’d also like to create contests to promote kids moving more. We plan to mount leaderboards to mark milestones every so many steps/miles. We’d like to create run/walk clubs to see if we can get kids to travel 300 miles in January-June. The bands will help us include kids without GPS devices or unlimited data, as well as construct classroom assignments where ½ the class tracks activity for 1 week and the other class tracks nutrition. Those groups would then switch.
The Silicon Valley Project (David Browne / Oak Valley Middle School)
The goal is to create an environment of alternative seating and create an environment that demonstrates a culture of thinking. Brain-based research supports alternative seating as a way to maximize student engagement. The materials listed will be merged with yoga balls, mats, and exercise bikes that have already been procured. The table tops listed are glass top which allow for students to draw and sketch ideas with dry erase. They can then erase them like a white board. It is my hope that these changes will not only boost student achievement it will help create an excitement for STEAM.
Urban Wind/Water Energy Farm (David Browne / Oak Valley Middle School)
Students will be designing an alternative energy solution for a large city that is out of energy. In this case they will be designing, experimenting, and building wind and hydroelectric generators that could be implemented attached to buildings and houses. The generators will be used to help them light Christmas lights that will light up a cardboard doll house built in Tech Ed.
Engineering Hydro-Electric Power (Cheryl Peters / White Lake Middle School)
Science STEM benchmarks are an innovative approach to teaching through science inquiry by combining science, engineering, and technology skills. My students will become engineers through exploration by building hydroelectric power generators. Students will manipulate a hand generator that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy and then work in groups to design their own water wheel. Finally, student groups will compete with other groups to implement the most effective design.
Stream Forensics: Using Forensic Science to Solve the Water Crisis (Christine Smith / White Lake Middle School)
Water issues are not simply a Michigan concern. Students understand that contaminants enter our waterways, pollute the water, and eventually travel to the oceans. But systemic, local events occur seasonally and routinely, and our students as citizens often miss the impact of local contamination. By making students CSI-style forensic scientists, they will perform three labs to determine: the factory source of a polluted well, the identification of the contaminants in a quarry, and the origin of a copper spill in a local river. Then, they will field test the water in the holding lagoon on our school campus using a GoPro camera and a water quality app to use their forensic science skills in a real-world application.
In honor of Dr. Robert and Marie McCauley
Let's Play in ELA (Laura Hammill / White Lake Middle School)
Let's play in ELA and start rewarding students for their reading efforts! Student talk, collaboration, teamwork, speaking, listening, and critical thinking is all essential skills for students to embrace across disciplines. Mrs. Hamill's Language Arts students are working daily on their reading stamina and achieving individual short and long term reading goals. It is my wish to purchase literacy-based games that will provide students time to apply their ELA skills through play and rewarding students for their reading best practices. Let's enrich kids for working hard and having fun. I can't wait to see kids activating their literacy skills and smiling with friends!
High School Grants
Printmaking (Jared Lawson / Harbor High School)
The purchase of this printing press and materials will allow students to explore and produce works of art in a medium which teaches patience, development and dedication. Giving the students a more comprehensive and encompassing creative experience in the classroom.
Hungry for Physics! (Amanda Beckett / Lakeland High School)
The Next Generation Science Standards are coming and they are awesome! Students will be actively engaged in learning about Newton's Second Law of Physics while researching the scientific phenomena behind the popular Human Hungry Hippos game. The unit culminates in a class-wide competition, with students collecting data and analyzing their results using the Claim, Evidence, Reasoning model.
Making our Library Accessible for All (Jennifer Grubb / Milford High School)
Milford HS houses our Cognitively Impaired Categorical classroom. The majority of the students within this program are reading well below grade level (typically pre k-3rd grade.) While they would like to access our building library, there are few to no books at their ability level to check out. We would like to purchases books that could be accessed and checked out that these students could read and enjoy.
Supporting Life Skills Through Camping (Jennifer Grubb / Milford High School)
This grant supports our cognitively impaired teenage population, who benefit from direct instruction and opportunities to practice functional independence in a variety of environments. Students will experience an overnight outing at a local campsite, camping in small groups with peers and a staff and/or family members. Skills addressed include choice making, food planning and preparation, community safety, hygiene, self-care, and social skills. They will choose from various leisure activities, including fishing, boating, swimming, hiking, bonfires. Students will address personal health, safety and hygiene, general fire and water safety. Students will follow maps and directions for setup of their campsite. While this is will be the second year for this outing, students with cognitive impairments need lots of repetition and practice to gain these life skills. It takes years to acquire many of these skills.
In honor of Thomas Ormanday
The Bistro Box (Sheri Germaine / Milford High School)
The main goal of the Adult Transition Program (housed within Milford High School) is to equip students from the ages of 18 to 26 to develop job skills to find meaningful employment within our community. The purpose of this grant application is to develop a coffee shop atmosphere within our classroom to gain valuable experience making decisions from multiple choices, using cash as a transaction medium, fulfilling orders, and customer service. The goal of opening a coffee bistro is to replicate the experiences students developmental disabilities would expect to encounter at a job.
In honor of Barbara Gavitt
District-Wide Grants
Art for Life (Georgia Bingham / HVCA)
We appreciate your continuous support of helping our organization provide the "Arts" for the students of Huron Valley Schools. This grant will help us continue to bring the "Arts" to:
Words Their Way for our Youngest Readers and Writers (Kalie Miller / Brooks Elementary School)
A Words Their Way grant would allow 100 students in Kindergarten and First Grade to examine, manipulate, and categorize words within a developed and researched word study program. These word study notebooks allow students to attend to critical features of words- sound, pattern, and meaning. Children love cutting these colorful words and pictures and using their higher level thinking skills to sort them into groups. The Word Study Notebooks are created to meet the needs of all students’ developmental stages of spelling and allow for emergent readers all the way through to those students who are proficient.
In honor of Regina W. Lehker
Children's Literature for Read Well Program (Nicole Fouty / Brooks Elementary School)
One of our special education reading intervention programs is Read Well. This is a fabulous program, but is didn't come with the suggested children's picture books. This children's literature would add an emergent, teacher-led literary piece that is currently missing with each Read Well teaching unit.
In honor of Sherry Stashonsky
Disc Golf to COE (Ryan Arnold / Country Oaks Elementary School)
My overall goal is to have a 9 hole disc golf course on our school property. I believe our socioeconomically diverse population would greatly benefit from this sport year round, as students in the many surrounding neighborhoods could use the permanently installed Disc Golf targets/ baskets at any time, even after school and during the summer months. Students of all ages involved in formal or informal games and tournaments would bring community members together. Most importantly, families and friends can share time together.
Reaching Every Child (Stacy Rennie / Country Oaks Elementary School)
A portion of this grant will be used to fund alternative seating in my classroom for students who have a difficult time sitting during class. With the $200, I will be able to purchase bumpy seats, bean bag chairs and other seating for children with sensory sensitivities. The remaining $200 will be used to purchase brand new books from our Buy One, Get One Book Fair that is held in April. These books will be used for our Reading Wagon Program, which puts books in the hands of students who may not have another means of getting these important resources. This past year, we used the generous donations given by Country Oaks teachers. However, this grant would provide these children with brand new books for their use.
"Uke" Can Play with Us!! (LesleyAnne Newsted / Kurtz Elementary School)
It's not that big of a step from ukulele to guitar, right? At least that is what our students will think and as a result many kids that never seemed that invested in elementary vocal music will suddenly find their inspiration. Could the next great rocker or country music star be right here at Kurtz? We want to find out! Bringing 17 ukuleles to the Kurtz music classroom will help us to reach kids and inspire them to find their voice in music.
Loving Literature for Life (Marie Waters / Lakewood Elementary School)
Getting students to read every night can be difficult. Using Technology is a huge motivator for students. Finding books that they love is too! I want a love of reading to be born that will last a lifetime! Using Storia's Third Grade Collection of 150 texts will motivate my students to read at school using our class set of Kindles, and any tablet or PC at home. The more they read, the more confidence they will have and the better they will perform.
STEM Learning Science Kits (Julie Sheldon / Spring Mills Elementary School)
STEM Learning Science Activity kits are hands-on science kits that will encourage our students to explore the scientific process alone, in small groups, or with the full class. With these kits, students will be able to build, expand, explore, along with helping them answer questions with real life problems. Each kit has eight different categories with materials, experiment cards, along with extension cards. This will help guide our students into making science fun, with hands-on opportunities, activities at different levels to challenge all styles in the class, and being aligned with NGSS.
In honor of Cathie Covert
Middle School Grants
Muir First Tech Challenge Robotics (Jason Vallimont / Muir Middle School)
The First Tech Challenge (FTC) program is one of a progression of programs from First Robotics. FTC puts middle school students in a competitive environment using STEM concepts. Students will design, build, and program a robot under the supervision of coaches, engineers, and high school FRC members. They will do this while using the FIRST core value of gracious professionalism, which is using the idea of friendly competition.
Fun 4 Kids Spring Camping (Andrea Moore / Muir Middle School)
Fun 4 Kids Spring Camping will include three Categorical Classrooms from Muir Middle School, we support students with Autism and Cognitive Impairments. We will be taking our students on an overnight camping trip to Camp Ohiyesa. This trip is to further develop our social skills as well as life skills that we work on routinely. Many students have never been away from home for even one night. We are planning to focus on peer interaction, safety skills, and basic daily living skills. We are also working to develop an interest in leisure time activities for all campers; i.e. arts and crafts, games, boating, hiking, swimming, etc.
Commission THIS! (Kristin Blanchard / Muir Middle School)
I met composer Tyler S. Grant a couple of years ago, at an International Music Conference in Chicago. He writes very accessible music for a young instrumental student. Myself, along with the Muir band students, liked his music so much that I hired him to come clinic and conduct our bands that year. Tyler is only 21 years old and lives in Alabama. His ability to compose music is amazing. With this funding, we will be able to put a deposit down on a 3 year commissioning project, where the completed product will be a piece of music written specifically for our band and then performed in public.
Rolling into Robotics (Julie Puffer / Muir Middle School)
Sphero app-enabled balls can engage students in learning to code through active learning challenges. While learning computer programming basics this past spring, many students excelled and wanted challenges beyond the programs that we were using. These students inspired us to look into more interactive robotics programming for our coding units for this school year. Robots allow students to bring their coding programs into the physical world and demand that students become more active in their computer-based learning. Sphero app-enabled balls engage students with coding on mobile devices and Chromebooks.
In honor of Michigan Net QMN
A Deeper Look: Reading Materials for the Artroom (Abigail Powers / Muir Middle School)
A Deeper look: Reading materials for the art room would help provided students with a deeper understanding of art history and give them a look at contemporary art issues in today's world all while helping to meet core art standards. These magazines will bring both reading and writing into the art room in a way that is fun and engaging for students.
Full STEAM Ahead (Stacy Kolassa / Oak Valley Middle School)
The FTC program is a competitive robotics program for middle school students. The students design, build and program their own robot that they take to competitions. The FTC students are mentored by the high school FRC students throughout their competition season. FTC and FRC are part of the FIRST program that encourages the application of STEM concepts while practicing Gracious Professionalism.
Using Data to Get Kids Moving (Terry Haren / Oak Valley Middle School)
We would like to create experiments to show kids how much calories they burn doing various activities. We’d also like to create contests to promote kids moving more. We plan to mount leaderboards to mark milestones every so many steps/miles. We’d like to create run/walk clubs to see if we can get kids to travel 300 miles in January-June. The bands will help us include kids without GPS devices or unlimited data, as well as construct classroom assignments where ½ the class tracks activity for 1 week and the other class tracks nutrition. Those groups would then switch.
The Silicon Valley Project (David Browne / Oak Valley Middle School)
The goal is to create an environment of alternative seating and create an environment that demonstrates a culture of thinking. Brain-based research supports alternative seating as a way to maximize student engagement. The materials listed will be merged with yoga balls, mats, and exercise bikes that have already been procured. The table tops listed are glass top which allow for students to draw and sketch ideas with dry erase. They can then erase them like a white board. It is my hope that these changes will not only boost student achievement it will help create an excitement for STEAM.
Urban Wind/Water Energy Farm (David Browne / Oak Valley Middle School)
Students will be designing an alternative energy solution for a large city that is out of energy. In this case they will be designing, experimenting, and building wind and hydroelectric generators that could be implemented attached to buildings and houses. The generators will be used to help them light Christmas lights that will light up a cardboard doll house built in Tech Ed.
Engineering Hydro-Electric Power (Cheryl Peters / White Lake Middle School)
Science STEM benchmarks are an innovative approach to teaching through science inquiry by combining science, engineering, and technology skills. My students will become engineers through exploration by building hydroelectric power generators. Students will manipulate a hand generator that converts mechanical energy into electrical energy and then work in groups to design their own water wheel. Finally, student groups will compete with other groups to implement the most effective design.
Stream Forensics: Using Forensic Science to Solve the Water Crisis (Christine Smith / White Lake Middle School)
Water issues are not simply a Michigan concern. Students understand that contaminants enter our waterways, pollute the water, and eventually travel to the oceans. But systemic, local events occur seasonally and routinely, and our students as citizens often miss the impact of local contamination. By making students CSI-style forensic scientists, they will perform three labs to determine: the factory source of a polluted well, the identification of the contaminants in a quarry, and the origin of a copper spill in a local river. Then, they will field test the water in the holding lagoon on our school campus using a GoPro camera and a water quality app to use their forensic science skills in a real-world application.
In honor of Dr. Robert and Marie McCauley
Let's Play in ELA (Laura Hammill / White Lake Middle School)
Let's play in ELA and start rewarding students for their reading efforts! Student talk, collaboration, teamwork, speaking, listening, and critical thinking is all essential skills for students to embrace across disciplines. Mrs. Hamill's Language Arts students are working daily on their reading stamina and achieving individual short and long term reading goals. It is my wish to purchase literacy-based games that will provide students time to apply their ELA skills through play and rewarding students for their reading best practices. Let's enrich kids for working hard and having fun. I can't wait to see kids activating their literacy skills and smiling with friends!
High School Grants
Printmaking (Jared Lawson / Harbor High School)
The purchase of this printing press and materials will allow students to explore and produce works of art in a medium which teaches patience, development and dedication. Giving the students a more comprehensive and encompassing creative experience in the classroom.
Hungry for Physics! (Amanda Beckett / Lakeland High School)
The Next Generation Science Standards are coming and they are awesome! Students will be actively engaged in learning about Newton's Second Law of Physics while researching the scientific phenomena behind the popular Human Hungry Hippos game. The unit culminates in a class-wide competition, with students collecting data and analyzing their results using the Claim, Evidence, Reasoning model.
Making our Library Accessible for All (Jennifer Grubb / Milford High School)
Milford HS houses our Cognitively Impaired Categorical classroom. The majority of the students within this program are reading well below grade level (typically pre k-3rd grade.) While they would like to access our building library, there are few to no books at their ability level to check out. We would like to purchases books that could be accessed and checked out that these students could read and enjoy.
Supporting Life Skills Through Camping (Jennifer Grubb / Milford High School)
This grant supports our cognitively impaired teenage population, who benefit from direct instruction and opportunities to practice functional independence in a variety of environments. Students will experience an overnight outing at a local campsite, camping in small groups with peers and a staff and/or family members. Skills addressed include choice making, food planning and preparation, community safety, hygiene, self-care, and social skills. They will choose from various leisure activities, including fishing, boating, swimming, hiking, bonfires. Students will address personal health, safety and hygiene, general fire and water safety. Students will follow maps and directions for setup of their campsite. While this is will be the second year for this outing, students with cognitive impairments need lots of repetition and practice to gain these life skills. It takes years to acquire many of these skills.
In honor of Thomas Ormanday
The Bistro Box (Sheri Germaine / Milford High School)
The main goal of the Adult Transition Program (housed within Milford High School) is to equip students from the ages of 18 to 26 to develop job skills to find meaningful employment within our community. The purpose of this grant application is to develop a coffee shop atmosphere within our classroom to gain valuable experience making decisions from multiple choices, using cash as a transaction medium, fulfilling orders, and customer service. The goal of opening a coffee bistro is to replicate the experiences students developmental disabilities would expect to encounter at a job.
In honor of Barbara Gavitt
District-Wide Grants
Art for Life (Georgia Bingham / HVCA)
We appreciate your continuous support of helping our organization provide the "Arts" for the students of Huron Valley Schools. This grant will help us continue to bring the "Arts" to:
- Apollo Preschool - 4 live shows of music, puppetry, or story telling.
- 2nd Grade - Bring a live theater performance to all HVSD students.
- 8th Grade - to continue to bring the Black History Program of American
Roots Music from slavery to now performed by Matt Watroba and Robert Jones.
Huron Valley Educational Foundation
2015-16 Grant Summaries
Elementary School Grants
Brooks Family Bingo for Books Night (Kristin Powers / Brooks Elementary School)
Students and their families will enjoy a literacy-enriched evening of pizza dinner and new books to build their home library as well as sharing a love of the printed word. Our Brooks Family Bingo Night will foster a love of literacy, while children play age-appropriate Bingo (ABC Letter ID for grades K-1, Sight Word Bingo for 2-3, Vocabulary Booster Bonanza for 4-5). Students will bring 1-2 gently used books for the Book Swap Table. Winners can choose up to two new just-right books from the leveled table as well as pick from the book Swap Table for additional Bingo wins.
Finding Appropriate Interesting Reading (Nicole Fouty / Brooks Elementary School)
Finding interesting reading material that is in fiction and non-fiction, interesting, and age-appropriate is often difficult for students with special needs. Often these students read at a level that is much lower than their peers and they need different material than can not often be found in most classrooms and school libraries. Readinga-z.com provides thousand of books that are at all levels, matching up with each student's current DRA score. It also provides numerous individual and group activities that involve reading and writing that go along with each book.
Strumming a Happy Tune (Denise Martaus / Brooks and Lakewood Elementary)
What an amazing experience it is to see a student pick up a new instrument! For years the tool of choice has been the recorder, a music teacher staple. However not all students have the physical capabilities to play one nor show interest in something that fails to transcend their elementary experiences. Ukulele is an accessible, affordable, and developmentally appropriate alternative. Resembling a small guitar, ukuleles have become an engaging instrument for upper elementary students. Instead of the dual challenge of breath support and finger dexterity, ukuleles are often easier to use and have the ability to perform harmony.
Makey Makey's Utilizing Technology (Maurenn Heber / Highland and Kurtz Elementary)
Music education students at Kurtz and Highland Elementary will greatly benefit from the use of Makey Makey's by incorporating science, art and media with music.With over one hundred and eighty students effected, these circuits will help motivate and inspire students about music. With the use of chrome books, students can learn about electricity and how sound travels through objects. While using a Makey Makey, everyone is an inventor. Student's invent, create and compose their own music through this simple device of alligator clips and a USB attachment. Instruments such as a foot piano can be created.
Movin' to Learn (Amy Suryan / Johnson Elementary School)
We are seeing more and more children that are having trouble with sensory integration. There is an absence in the amount of time kids are engaged with gross motor play such as rolling, spinning and crawling. All of these stages are critical in the area of knowing where your body is in space. It also goes along with the developmental stages for fine motor skills. Our brains are wired to learn in movement and patterns. Children who have not had these opportunities struggle with the academic structure in the classroom. I would like to create a classroom lab to grow and learn with students, families and staff how important getting our children moving to learn.
Elementary Battle of the Books (Marie Waters / Lakewood Elementary School)
Getting students to deeply comprehend what they read is an on-going goal for teachers. Battle of the Books, a team competition, will engage students and encourage deep comprehension of explicit details, characters, themes, connections, and more. Students will read eight to ten teacher selected chapter books in order to be able to answer any question their team encounters during the book battles. Each team member will be an “expert” on one or two of the books. During the competition all team members may consult on each question as all books will be read by every student.
Let Them Hear! (Sue Hendershot / Lakewood Elementary School)
The students of Lakewood Elementary are asking for wireless microphones to use at our weekly student-run Community Time. Community Time is a time that the whole school congregates to discuss important issues and recognize success. This information is presented in a variety of ways including student skits, plays, singing and power-point presentations all prepared and delivered by students. With the implementation of a wireless system Community Time will be executed more efficiently and received more effectively.
Third Grade Book Club (Jenna Reintjes / Lakewood Elementary School)
In purchasing this guided reading library for my classroom, I will be able to meet with leveled "book clubs" in my classroom. These students would have the opportunity to read together and discuss these books. This allows my higher readers to read more and read at their pace without becoming frustrated. This also allows my struggling readers to read at their pace and level. Each person is responsible for reading and contributing to the discussion. At the end of the book, the group will share with the class what they read in a presentation.
Calm Kids are Ready to Learn (Sue Trotter / Spring Mills Elementary School)
This room would provide a controlled environment outside of the classroom where our overactive, distressed students can calm themselves and our passive, inactive students can become more alert and focused. The positive benefits of exposure to the Multi-Sensory Room would include decreased negative behaviors and improved focus in the classroom setting.
Music Theory Through Music Games (Sylvia LaPratt / Spring Mills and Brooks Elementary
Children love to play games. Many children are very good at playing video games, but rarely play board games or card games any more. I would like to purchase a class set of various games by the company Music Mind Games to approach teaching music theory in a more "playful" way. Students would get the chance to play games in groups with their friends, while learning and practicing their note names, note values, solfege, music symbols, melody reading, and rhythms. Classroom teachers often use centers to break up the class for learning. I would love to do the same!
Middle School Grants
We Learn, We Create, WEVIDEO (Julie Puffer / Muir Middle School)
Today’s learners cannot just be consumers of informational content, they must become thoughtful creators of content. One mode of digital expression is creating and editing video. Students gain experience in researching, filming, editing, and sharing video projects in 21st Century classes. 6th, 7th, and 8th grade students are asked to combine 4Cs (creativity, critical thinking, collaboration, and communication) and technology tools to create PSAs and/or digital stories about relevant community, health, and global issues.
Random Acts of Kindness (Michelle Doggett / Muir Middle School)
The idea of giving- it promotes cooperation and social interaction with all those involved. Giving evokes gratitude and becomes contagious. Muir Middle School's WEB Leadership team would like to start a movement in the Milford Community that focuses on "Random Acts of Kindess". Our project would have each eighth grade WEB Leader reach out to a community member, teacher in the building, younger student, custodial staff member, parent and peer to make a difference in their life and start the trend. Our group would encourage others to stand up and make that difference-no matter how small. As their head coordinator, I hope to execute a week long "Random Acts of Kindness" week that ends with my leaders heading into our downtown community and dedicating their time to local businesses that could utilize their services. Research studies by Lyubomirsky, Tkach, and Sheldon (2004), show that simply asking people to commit random acts of kindness can significantly increase happiness levels for several weeks. This is the effect we are hoping to achieve in our community.
Digital Storytelling with Imovie (Stacy Kolassa / Oak Valley Middle School)
A MacBook Pro with iMovie will allow student creativity to shine. The video production class will utilize Imovie to create professional-quality videos to showcase activities happening at Oak Valley. The iMovie version on the MacBook Pro has features, such as Green Screen and Background Noise Reduction, that are not available on the iPhone or iPad version of iMovie.
STEAM Stingers Robotics (Stacy Kolassa / Oak Valley Middle School)
The FTC program is a competitive robotics program for middle school students. The students design, build and program their own robot that they take to competitions. The FTC students are mentored by the high school FRC students throughout their competition season. FTC and FRC are part of the FIRST program that encourages the application of STEM concepts while practicing Gracious Professionalism.
Predicting the Weather (Mandy Brugger / Oak Valley Middle School)
Predicting the weather...do meteorologists ever get it right? Students will have the opportunity to become a meteorologist and predict our daily weather! They will get a first hand look at all the variables involved in making accurate predictions. Having a live weather station on our roof top will allow students to gather real time data and create charts and graphs to use in making their predictions.
Growing Greener (Cheryl Peters / White Lake Middle School)
Indoor Greenhouse Light Kits provide students with additional hands-on experience learning about plant growth while helping the school with our “Going Green” efforts. Students will have the experience of being able to manipulate several independent variables in a controlled setting. Students will gain first-hand growing plants from seed; while simultaneously testing a variety of dependent variables that can effect plant growth. By participating in efforts to grow plants from seed; students will also assist our school in maintaining “Green” status with the State of Michigan.
Mystery of the Mitochondria (Christine Smith / White Lake Middle School)
Mitochondria in Motion:
Mitochondria are known as the “power plants” of the cell. The problem with showing students a cell in a prepared slide is that the mitochondria stop functioning during the standard stain procedure. This all changes when students prepare celery samples with a dye/glucose solution, thereby oxidizing the mitochondria, allowing students to view live cells. Using the Flinn Scientific “Mitochondria in Action” kit, students experience an amazing look into the energy source of live cells!
Cell Membrane Permeability:
Next, students work with live samples of Saccharomyces cerevisiae in order to manipulate cell permeability, and to view substances crossing the phospholipid bilayer during active and passive transport. Students actually prepare slides, sketch, and identify material passing between cell membranes in live cells.
Plant and Animal Cell--Mystery ID:
For this summative project students apply their learning of cell organelles and systems in a cell mystery. After sketching and identifying cells, students use visual and narrative “clues” to help them solve the mystery ID. Students view prepared cell slides, then use higher-level thinking skills to identify the cells and organelle systems.
High School Grants
Community Sharing Empty Bowls Project (Daniel Ignagni / Lakeland High School)
The Community Sharing Empty Bowls project is a community service project where Lakeland High School students design, create and glaze pottery bowls to be sold at the Empty Bowls event to raise money for the Community Sharing group. Students from all Fundamentals of Art and Design classes, Pottery classes and students in the National Art Honor Society will participate in this event.
Shadow Interpreted Play (Jeanne Geraci / Milford High School)
I have started the American Sign Language (ASL) program at Milford High School in Huron Valley Schools. I would like the opportunity to take my ASL 1 & ASL 2 students to an interpreted play. The goal is for students to experience a play and to see the story being told through American Sign Language. ASL is such a beautiful language and it’s such an amazing experience to see a shadow interpreted play. By seeing this play, students would discuss ASL grammar, deaf culture, facial expressions (NMS) and non-manual markers (NMM) and non-manuals. I would like to arrange a “talk back” which is when the interpreters come out after the play and talk about the experience and the interpreting process of a play.
Capturing the Moment (Bill James / Milford High School)
The Swivl present anywhere bundle, along with an iPod, will provide students with instant access to lessons/information that were discussed in class. This will allow for the ability to relearn and/or reinforce the information presented in the daily lesson. Using the Swivl would allow a student who may be absent for a day, or an extended period of time to stay in-touch and up to date on the material discussed. Additionally, this project will allow for self-reflection and continuous professional improvement within the classroom.
Real Time Behavior (Sabra Evans / Milford High School)
The Swivl Present Anywhere Bundle along with an iPod will give me the ability to bring the social behaviors and communication challenges that my students with high functioning autism struggle with into real time by capturing the behavior when it happens. Utilizing video to provide an essential piece of documentation to assist students in self-reflection and to enhance the communication and support with parents.
Supporting Life Skills Through Camping (Jennifer Grubb / Milford High School)
This grant supports our cognitively impaired teenage population, who benefit from direct instruction and opportunities to practice functional independence in a variety of environments. Students will experience an overnight outing at a local campsite, camping in small groups with peers and a staff and/or family members. Skills addressed include choice making, food planning and preparation, community safety, hygiene, self-care, and social skills. They will choose from various leisure activities, including fishing, boating, swimming, hiking, bonfires. Students will address personal health, safety and hygiene, general fire and water safety. Students will follow maps and directions for setup of their campsite.
District-Wide Grants
Toddler Home Library (Nikki Schneider / Apollo Center)
We are proposing to replicate last year's highly successful foundation grant to create a Toddler Home Library for another 25 children enrolled in HVS Early Intervention. These children all have speech and language or other developmental delays that make them high risk for not developing language and prereading skills normally. All children receive weekly parent coaching and intervention in the home, but many of the homes being visited lack age or developmentally appropriate books to stimulate language development. Families will be given direct instruction as to how to use the Home Library books to engage their child, teach vocabulary, introduce rhyming, develop concepts of print, and develop a love of books. The ultimate goal is to support families with the knowledge and materials to incorporate daily reading habits in their homes.
Off to a Great Start with Literacy (Barb Varcie / Apollo Center)
"Off to a Great Start with Literacy" will provide Great Start Readiness Program preschool students and their families access to literature in their homes, by sending books home and exchanging them for new books on a weekly bases. We want to purchase Guided Books, Levels A and B, from Steps to Literacy which would give our four preschool classrooms 96 books to distribute weekly. Research supports that children who are read to daily become better readers and communicators. According to the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), "Research has found that one of the most important things parents can do to help their child build reading and writing skills is to read aloud." Having access to books for preschool children is critical to their developing literacy success in elementary school. This is especially true for our ELL students who have limited English language skills. Having easy to read books for families to share will promote a love for books and the beginning of a great start to literacy!
Art for Life Youth Incentive (Georgia Bingham / HVCA)
The Huron Valley Council for the Arts is seeking funding to help us continue to provide our "Arts for Life" program. As a non-profit 501C-3 organization, we work hard to find funding to continue our mission of providing greater opportunities to enhance learning experiences in the arts. We strive to bring professional education based theater arts experience to the Huron Valley 8th grade, 2nd grade and Apollo Center children.
SMART Clubs (Paige Riley / Post-Secondary Program)
The HVS SMART Program (Students Mastering Adult Responsibilities Together) includes special needs adult students -ages 18-26. Recreational activities are sometimes limited for the students in this population. Recreational activities help young adults with disabilities develop their problem-solving skills, learn responsibility, and increase self esteem, all while having fun. This grant will be used to purchase materials for SMART Program Clubs. Students will choose which club to join (music, knitting, magic, stamps, coins, or poetry). They will participate in the club for 6 weeks and then share a presentation to fellow students. Students will have opportunities to rotate clubs.
Brooks Family Bingo for Books Night (Kristin Powers / Brooks Elementary School)
Students and their families will enjoy a literacy-enriched evening of pizza dinner and new books to build their home library as well as sharing a love of the printed word. Our Brooks Family Bingo Night will foster a love of literacy, while children play age-appropriate Bingo (ABC Letter ID for grades K-1, Sight Word Bingo for 2-3, Vocabulary Booster Bonanza for 4-5). Students will bring 1-2 gently used books for the Book Swap Table. Winners can choose up to two new just-right books from the leveled table as well as pick from the book Swap Table for additional Bingo wins.
Finding Appropriate Interesting Reading (Nicole Fouty / Brooks Elementary School)
Finding interesting reading material that is in fiction and non-fiction, interesting, and age-appropriate is often difficult for students with special needs. Often these students read at a level that is much lower than their peers and they need different material than can not often be found in most classrooms and school libraries. Readinga-z.com provides thousand of books that are at all levels, matching up with each student's current DRA score. It also provides numerous individual and group activities that involve reading and writing that go along with each book.
Strumming a Happy Tune (Denise Martaus / Brooks and Lakewood Elementary)
What an amazing experience it is to see a student pick up a new instrument! For years the tool of choice has been the recorder, a music teacher staple. However not all students have the physical capabilities to play one nor show interest in something that fails to transcend their elementary experiences. Ukulele is an accessible, affordable, and developmentally appropriate alternative. Resembling a small guitar, ukuleles have become an engaging instrument for upper elementary students. Instead of the dual challenge of breath support and finger dexterity, ukuleles are often easier to use and have the ability to perform harmony.
Makey Makey's Utilizing Technology (Maurenn Heber / Highland and Kurtz Elementary)
Music education students at Kurtz and Highland Elementary will greatly benefit from the use of Makey Makey's by incorporating science, art and media with music.With over one hundred and eighty students effected, these circuits will help motivate and inspire students about music. With the use of chrome books, students can learn about electricity and how sound travels through objects. While using a Makey Makey, everyone is an inventor. Student's invent, create and compose their own music through this simple device of alligator clips and a USB attachment. Instruments such as a foot piano can be created.
Movin' to Learn (Amy Suryan / Johnson Elementary School)
We are seeing more and more children that are having trouble with sensory integration. There is an absence in the amount of time kids are engaged with gross motor play such as rolling, spinning and crawling. All of these stages are critical in the area of knowing where your body is in space. It also goes along with the developmental stages for fine motor skills. Our brains are wired to learn in movement and patterns. Children who have not had these opportunities struggle with the academic structure in the classroom. I would like to create a classroom lab to grow and learn with students, families and staff how important getting our children moving to learn.
Elementary Battle of the Books (Marie Waters / Lakewood Elementary School)
Getting students to deeply comprehend what they read is an on-going goal for teachers. Battle of the Books, a team competition, will engage students and encourage deep comprehension of explicit details, characters, themes, connections, and more. Students will read eight to ten teacher selected chapter books in order to be able to answer any question their team encounters during the book battles. Each team member will be an “expert” on one or two of the books. During the competition all team members may consult on each question as all books will be read by every student.
Let Them Hear! (Sue Hendershot / Lakewood Elementary School)
The students of Lakewood Elementary are asking for wireless microphones to use at our weekly student-run Community Time. Community Time is a time that the whole school congregates to discuss important issues and recognize success. This information is presented in a variety of ways including student skits, plays, singing and power-point presentations all prepared and delivered by students. With the implementation of a wireless system Community Time will be executed more efficiently and received more effectively.
Third Grade Book Club (Jenna Reintjes / Lakewood Elementary School)
In purchasing this guided reading library for my classroom, I will be able to meet with leveled "book clubs" in my classroom. These students would have the opportunity to read together and discuss these books. This allows my higher readers to read more and read at their pace without becoming frustrated. This also allows my struggling readers to read at their pace and level. Each person is responsible for reading and contributing to the discussion. At the end of the book, the group will share with the class what they read in a presentation.
Calm Kids are Ready to Learn (Sue Trotter / Spring Mills Elementary School)
This room would provide a controlled environment outside of the classroom where our overactive, distressed students can calm themselves and our passive, inactive students can become more alert and focused. The positive benefits of exposure to the Multi-Sensory Room would include decreased negative behaviors and improved focus in the classroom setting.
Music Theory Through Music Games (Sylvia LaPratt / Spring Mills and Brooks Elementary
Children love to play games. Many children are very good at playing video games, but rarely play board games or card games any more. I would like to purchase a class set of various games by the company Music Mind Games to approach teaching music theory in a more "playful" way. Students would get the chance to play games in groups with their friends, while learning and practicing their note names, note values, solfege, music symbols, melody reading, and rhythms. Classroom teachers often use centers to break up the class for learning. I would love to do the same!
Middle School Grants
We Learn, We Create, WEVIDEO (Julie Puffer / Muir Middle School)
Today’s learners cannot just be consumers of informational content, they must become thoughtful creators of content. One mode of digital expression is creating and editing video. Students gain experience in researching, filming, editing, and sharing video projects in 21st Century classes. 6th, 7th, and 8th grade students are asked to combine 4Cs (creativity, critical thinking, collaboration, and communication) and technology tools to create PSAs and/or digital stories about relevant community, health, and global issues.
Random Acts of Kindness (Michelle Doggett / Muir Middle School)
The idea of giving- it promotes cooperation and social interaction with all those involved. Giving evokes gratitude and becomes contagious. Muir Middle School's WEB Leadership team would like to start a movement in the Milford Community that focuses on "Random Acts of Kindess". Our project would have each eighth grade WEB Leader reach out to a community member, teacher in the building, younger student, custodial staff member, parent and peer to make a difference in their life and start the trend. Our group would encourage others to stand up and make that difference-no matter how small. As their head coordinator, I hope to execute a week long "Random Acts of Kindness" week that ends with my leaders heading into our downtown community and dedicating their time to local businesses that could utilize their services. Research studies by Lyubomirsky, Tkach, and Sheldon (2004), show that simply asking people to commit random acts of kindness can significantly increase happiness levels for several weeks. This is the effect we are hoping to achieve in our community.
Digital Storytelling with Imovie (Stacy Kolassa / Oak Valley Middle School)
A MacBook Pro with iMovie will allow student creativity to shine. The video production class will utilize Imovie to create professional-quality videos to showcase activities happening at Oak Valley. The iMovie version on the MacBook Pro has features, such as Green Screen and Background Noise Reduction, that are not available on the iPhone or iPad version of iMovie.
STEAM Stingers Robotics (Stacy Kolassa / Oak Valley Middle School)
The FTC program is a competitive robotics program for middle school students. The students design, build and program their own robot that they take to competitions. The FTC students are mentored by the high school FRC students throughout their competition season. FTC and FRC are part of the FIRST program that encourages the application of STEM concepts while practicing Gracious Professionalism.
Predicting the Weather (Mandy Brugger / Oak Valley Middle School)
Predicting the weather...do meteorologists ever get it right? Students will have the opportunity to become a meteorologist and predict our daily weather! They will get a first hand look at all the variables involved in making accurate predictions. Having a live weather station on our roof top will allow students to gather real time data and create charts and graphs to use in making their predictions.
Growing Greener (Cheryl Peters / White Lake Middle School)
Indoor Greenhouse Light Kits provide students with additional hands-on experience learning about plant growth while helping the school with our “Going Green” efforts. Students will have the experience of being able to manipulate several independent variables in a controlled setting. Students will gain first-hand growing plants from seed; while simultaneously testing a variety of dependent variables that can effect plant growth. By participating in efforts to grow plants from seed; students will also assist our school in maintaining “Green” status with the State of Michigan.
Mystery of the Mitochondria (Christine Smith / White Lake Middle School)
Mitochondria in Motion:
Mitochondria are known as the “power plants” of the cell. The problem with showing students a cell in a prepared slide is that the mitochondria stop functioning during the standard stain procedure. This all changes when students prepare celery samples with a dye/glucose solution, thereby oxidizing the mitochondria, allowing students to view live cells. Using the Flinn Scientific “Mitochondria in Action” kit, students experience an amazing look into the energy source of live cells!
Cell Membrane Permeability:
Next, students work with live samples of Saccharomyces cerevisiae in order to manipulate cell permeability, and to view substances crossing the phospholipid bilayer during active and passive transport. Students actually prepare slides, sketch, and identify material passing between cell membranes in live cells.
Plant and Animal Cell--Mystery ID:
For this summative project students apply their learning of cell organelles and systems in a cell mystery. After sketching and identifying cells, students use visual and narrative “clues” to help them solve the mystery ID. Students view prepared cell slides, then use higher-level thinking skills to identify the cells and organelle systems.
High School Grants
Community Sharing Empty Bowls Project (Daniel Ignagni / Lakeland High School)
The Community Sharing Empty Bowls project is a community service project where Lakeland High School students design, create and glaze pottery bowls to be sold at the Empty Bowls event to raise money for the Community Sharing group. Students from all Fundamentals of Art and Design classes, Pottery classes and students in the National Art Honor Society will participate in this event.
Shadow Interpreted Play (Jeanne Geraci / Milford High School)
I have started the American Sign Language (ASL) program at Milford High School in Huron Valley Schools. I would like the opportunity to take my ASL 1 & ASL 2 students to an interpreted play. The goal is for students to experience a play and to see the story being told through American Sign Language. ASL is such a beautiful language and it’s such an amazing experience to see a shadow interpreted play. By seeing this play, students would discuss ASL grammar, deaf culture, facial expressions (NMS) and non-manual markers (NMM) and non-manuals. I would like to arrange a “talk back” which is when the interpreters come out after the play and talk about the experience and the interpreting process of a play.
Capturing the Moment (Bill James / Milford High School)
The Swivl present anywhere bundle, along with an iPod, will provide students with instant access to lessons/information that were discussed in class. This will allow for the ability to relearn and/or reinforce the information presented in the daily lesson. Using the Swivl would allow a student who may be absent for a day, or an extended period of time to stay in-touch and up to date on the material discussed. Additionally, this project will allow for self-reflection and continuous professional improvement within the classroom.
Real Time Behavior (Sabra Evans / Milford High School)
The Swivl Present Anywhere Bundle along with an iPod will give me the ability to bring the social behaviors and communication challenges that my students with high functioning autism struggle with into real time by capturing the behavior when it happens. Utilizing video to provide an essential piece of documentation to assist students in self-reflection and to enhance the communication and support with parents.
Supporting Life Skills Through Camping (Jennifer Grubb / Milford High School)
This grant supports our cognitively impaired teenage population, who benefit from direct instruction and opportunities to practice functional independence in a variety of environments. Students will experience an overnight outing at a local campsite, camping in small groups with peers and a staff and/or family members. Skills addressed include choice making, food planning and preparation, community safety, hygiene, self-care, and social skills. They will choose from various leisure activities, including fishing, boating, swimming, hiking, bonfires. Students will address personal health, safety and hygiene, general fire and water safety. Students will follow maps and directions for setup of their campsite.
District-Wide Grants
Toddler Home Library (Nikki Schneider / Apollo Center)
We are proposing to replicate last year's highly successful foundation grant to create a Toddler Home Library for another 25 children enrolled in HVS Early Intervention. These children all have speech and language or other developmental delays that make them high risk for not developing language and prereading skills normally. All children receive weekly parent coaching and intervention in the home, but many of the homes being visited lack age or developmentally appropriate books to stimulate language development. Families will be given direct instruction as to how to use the Home Library books to engage their child, teach vocabulary, introduce rhyming, develop concepts of print, and develop a love of books. The ultimate goal is to support families with the knowledge and materials to incorporate daily reading habits in their homes.
Off to a Great Start with Literacy (Barb Varcie / Apollo Center)
"Off to a Great Start with Literacy" will provide Great Start Readiness Program preschool students and their families access to literature in their homes, by sending books home and exchanging them for new books on a weekly bases. We want to purchase Guided Books, Levels A and B, from Steps to Literacy which would give our four preschool classrooms 96 books to distribute weekly. Research supports that children who are read to daily become better readers and communicators. According to the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), "Research has found that one of the most important things parents can do to help their child build reading and writing skills is to read aloud." Having access to books for preschool children is critical to their developing literacy success in elementary school. This is especially true for our ELL students who have limited English language skills. Having easy to read books for families to share will promote a love for books and the beginning of a great start to literacy!
Art for Life Youth Incentive (Georgia Bingham / HVCA)
The Huron Valley Council for the Arts is seeking funding to help us continue to provide our "Arts for Life" program. As a non-profit 501C-3 organization, we work hard to find funding to continue our mission of providing greater opportunities to enhance learning experiences in the arts. We strive to bring professional education based theater arts experience to the Huron Valley 8th grade, 2nd grade and Apollo Center children.
SMART Clubs (Paige Riley / Post-Secondary Program)
The HVS SMART Program (Students Mastering Adult Responsibilities Together) includes special needs adult students -ages 18-26. Recreational activities are sometimes limited for the students in this population. Recreational activities help young adults with disabilities develop their problem-solving skills, learn responsibility, and increase self esteem, all while having fun. This grant will be used to purchase materials for SMART Program Clubs. Students will choose which club to join (music, knitting, magic, stamps, coins, or poetry). They will participate in the club for 6 weeks and then share a presentation to fellow students. Students will have opportunities to rotate clubs.
Huron Valley Educational Foundation
2014-15 Grant Summaries
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL GRANTS
Social Emotional Library (Lindsay Hartwell and Mallory Gignac / Heritage)
Social Emotional Library (Sandra Clarke / Highland)
A large portion of kindergarten and first grade focuses on fostering the “whole” child; making sure to not only support a child’s academics but also to develop the social and the emotional skills necessary to become well-rounded successful learners. Students will use meaningful books in the classroom library that will generate deep discussions, rich text-to-self connections and strategies and skills that the children can use in their everyday lives.
In Honor of Regina W. Lekher Grant recipient
Winter Time Fun (Elizabeth Dunn / Heritage)
Snowshoeing is a cross-country conditioning sport, offering a low impact, safe form of exercise. Grant funds will be used to purchase snow shoes for the Physical Education department for all students to utilize. Snowshoeing is a great way to teach students you can be active in the winter—especially in Michigan.
Family Engineering Night (Staci McDonald / Highland)
During this after-school event, families will engage in fun, hands-on activities learning about what engineers do and the role engineering plays in everyday life, as well as discovering career opportunities in engineering. This event will also promote 21st Century skills of inquiry, creativity, teamwork, and collaborative problem solving.
Dr. Robert and Marie McCauley Memorial Grant recipient
Watch D.O.G.S. (Jamie Gradinscak / Highland)
Watch D.O.G.S. (Dads of Great Students) is a nationally recognized program that is an innovative way to increase father involvement by providing positive male role models for students. The grant will be used to purchase a start-up program and future materials to implement this program for a two year trial run.
Capture This: Learning and Leading with Digital Technology (Traci Bradley and Sherry Bell / Highland)
Digital cameras will be purchased for use in the classroom and with the school’s Student Leadership and Fuel Up to Play 60 Team. Students will use digital cameras to capture their lives and school and display photos on student created websites. The goal is to have a motivating resource for students who are the creators of their content.
In Honor of Women in Business, Highland White Lake Business Association Grant recipient
TenMarks Math Luncheon (Stacy Rennie / Country Oaks)
Grant funds will be used to purchase a Chromebook for use by third grade students during lunch time. Students will be able to work at their own pace without the pressure of their peers watching them. Research has shown that students utilizing Chromebooks saw their math test scores increase by 20% in one year, compared to students using traditional textbooks.
Bill Devers Memorial Grant recipient
A Better Way: Elementary Fitness Assessment (Ryan Arnold / Country Oaks)
Physical Educators today are facing increased pressures to be accountable and to publicly report on their achievements. Currently our goal at the elementary level is to improve student levels of health and physical fitness. Grant funds will be used to implement the nationally recognized Fitness Gram® program which will compare students’ results against the nation’s averages.
Lights! Camera! Action! (Larry Chludzinski, Linda Stackpoole, Carla Olando / Oxbow)
Our students love to be challenged and they love to incorporate technology to enhance their learning experiences whenever possible. Chromebooks will be utilized in the second grade classroom where many students have had little or no exposure to technology up until this point. Students will be able to create their own sites where they can document and share what they have learned with others.
Let’s Chat (Sharon Hengtgen, Monica Kerner and Nikki Schneider / Apollo Preschool)
“Let’s Chat” will provide opportunities for preschoolers to develop and practice oral expression through the use of microphones in the classrooms that amplify and record a student’s emerging conversation attempts with adults and peers. Modeling and practice with a microphone that projects and records exchanges is both encouraging and fun!
Just for Ukes (Jim Shouldice / Johnson)
The “Just for Ukes” project will use grant funds to purchase a classroom set of ukuleles for fifth grade music classes. Students will learn various chords and strumming techniques as well as expand their musical vocabulary by learning to play songs from various genres.
Rolling in the “D”, in a Model T (Julie Puffer / Spring Mills)
Henry Ford, creator of the Model T and modern assembly line was passionate about learning and preserving history. Ford represents many of the concepts learned in third grade social studies and a trip to Henry Ford’s Greenfield Village will include a Historic Vehicle Ride Pass. Students will ride on horse drawn carriages, a steam engine or even a Model T. This grant will provide passes for all third graders at Spring Mills to have the opportunity to bring together history and their learning about modes of transportation to life while at Greenfield Village.
Music Meets Technology! (Sylvia LaPratt / Spring Mills)
Technology can open so many doors for students—also in music class. Grant funds will be used to purchase three mini iPads to be used by over 600 students. Music applications will allow students to explore instruments of the orchestra, compose music, engage with rhythm and listen immediately to what they have composed.
When the Teacher is Away, the Students will…SCREEN CAST! (Julie Puffer / Spring Mills)
Students will create digital teaching videos/tutorials to demonstrate their mathematics learning. By allowing students the opportunity to become “the teacher of concepts”, students will be able to strengthen their knowledge and understanding. Students will receive a math problem and must develop strategies for, solve, then explain/teach on a recording. The videos will provide a picture of the students’ understanding of the concepts.
Toddler Home Library (Nikki Scheider, Jamie Felt / HVS Birth to 3 Months)
Grant funds will be used to create a Toddler Home Library for children enrolled in HVS Early Intervention. A new book will be provided monthly for each child to keep in their home library. Families will be given direct instruction as to how to use the book to engage their child, enrich vocabulary, introduce rhyming, and develop a love of books.
Cathie Covert Memorial Grant recipient
MIDDLE SCHOOL GRANTS
Claymation (Cecilia Gollan, Lauri Rowley / Oak Valley)
Nothing engages students more than creating Claymation! With Frames as the foundation, Claymation helps students showcase knowledge using a fun and creative medium. While studying the history of clay animation, students will develop a storyboard and apply the concepts of animation in a cooperative production.
Maus: A Survivor’s Tale – Novel Study (Greg Mauller / White Lake)
Maus: A Survivor’s Tale is a two volume memoir written by Art Spegelman whose parents were Holocaust survivors. The entire story is a memoir in which the author attempts to learn about his mother and father’s experiences at the concentration camp of Auschwitz. Eighth grade students will be exposed to different forms of writing and storytelling and will explore how a narrative nonfiction text can work within a visual framework.
Racing the Sun (Christine Smith / White Lake)
Using engineering design, eighth grade science students will construct solar-powered vehicles, which are propelled by the energy from the sun. Students must consider mass, design principles, friction, and weather as they study the nuclear fusion process of the sun.
In Honor of The Michigan Net, QMN Grant recipient
Growing Green (Cheryl Peters / White Lake)
Grant funds will be used to purchase an Indoor Greenhouse Light Kit which will give students a hands-on experience learning about plant growth and helping our school with our “Going Green” efforts. Students will gain first-hand knowledge about how plants grow and variables that can effect plant growth.
Investigating Lincoln’s Assassination (Seth Taboh / White Lake)
Students will learn what a primary source document is and will be using them to assist in the investigation of the assassination of Abraham Lincoln. They will do this in conjunction with a live, interactive and immersive acting portrayal through Ford’s Theatre in Washington, D.C. A classroom set of the book Chasing Lincoln’s Killer by James L. Swanson will also be purchased and read prior to the virtual experience allowing the students to have background knowledge and information about the assassination and the investigation into President Lincoln’s murder.
Work Tasks (Andrea Moore / Muir)
Work Tasks are one-unit boxes that are designed to help students overcome some of the challenges presented by severe impairments. These boxes aid students in overcoming organizational difficulties to help them complete their work successfully and with as much independence as possible.
Brainology (Deb Fredericks / Muir)
Grant funds will be used to purchase copies of the book Mindset which will be used with 6-8th grade students who are receiving special education services but continue to not be successful in school, even with the extensive interventions attempted. Online parent support as well as meetings will aid families in teaching students a growth mindset.
Picture This! Inspiring Reluctant Readers (Melissa Probe / Muir)
Reading builds success. Teachers are discovering that graphic novels—just like traditional forms of literature—can be useful tools for helping students, especially reluctant readers, to critically examine aspects of history, science, literature and art. Grant funds will be used to expand the collection of graphic novels at the Muir Library.
Clash of the Cooking Crews (Roberta Vander Bann / Muir)
School aged cooks will learn to modify and create their own recipes which are optimized for flavor, appearance and healthfulness. Students will be encouraged to eat healthy while being included in a fun, competitive club-based environment.
HIGH SCHOOL GRANTS
21st Century Broadcasting Technology (Megan Weeks / Milford)
This grant will help bring the equipment and curriculum within the high school Broadcasting/TV Production course up to 21st Century and modern production standards. The severely outdated equipment will be replaced and improved so students can begin to work with industry-standard tools and technology.
Barbara Gavitt Memorial Grant recipient
Creating Connections at Communications Camp (Brigitte Knudson / Lakeland)
Communications Camp is an annual Lakeland tradition where 60 students attend a camp experience that focuses on teaching communication skills through small group interactions and activities by breaking down barriers that may have previously existed due to differences. Grant funds will be used to enable 10 students to attend camp who would otherwise be unable to participate due to cost.
Thomas Ormanday Memorial Grant recipient
Common Core: Improving Speaking and Listening Skills (Nina Rogow / Multiple Buildings)
Research shows that language intervention by a speech and language therapist is most effective when done in the classroom rather than in a “pull-out” setting. This is especially true for secondary students. Funds for this grant will be used to purchase applications to address problems in articulation, phonemic awareness, social skills (and “bullying”), comprehension, vocabulary and verbal problem solving.
DISTRICT-WIDE GRANTS
Theatre Arts Experience (Huron Valley Council for the Arts / 8th graders, 2nd graders and Apollo Preschool)
The Huron Valley Council for the Arts (HVCA) will use this grant to provide a quality based theater arts experience for Huron Valley 8th graders, 2nd grade students and the Apollo preschoolers. Second graders will be provided with a program called “Favorites for Little Theater Goers—The Ugly Duckling” performed by Wild Swan Productions. Eighth graders will hear a program called “The History of American Music” during Black History Month covering over 200 years of music history from slave rhythms to today’s rap music. The “Tunes for Tots” program was created by the HVCA as an outreach program for preschoolers that often do not have the opportunity to enjoy the arts in their community.
Huron Valley Schools Martin Luther King Day 2015 (Isaac Perry / MLK Committee)
The HVS MLK Day is celebrating their 10th annual celebration which is free and open to the public. The events include a variety of celebratory and educational experiences designed to inform, inspire and empower area residents of all ages in support of Civil Rights, nonviolence, tolerance and acceptance.
Social Emotional Library (Lindsay Hartwell and Mallory Gignac / Heritage)
Social Emotional Library (Sandra Clarke / Highland)
A large portion of kindergarten and first grade focuses on fostering the “whole” child; making sure to not only support a child’s academics but also to develop the social and the emotional skills necessary to become well-rounded successful learners. Students will use meaningful books in the classroom library that will generate deep discussions, rich text-to-self connections and strategies and skills that the children can use in their everyday lives.
In Honor of Regina W. Lekher Grant recipient
Winter Time Fun (Elizabeth Dunn / Heritage)
Snowshoeing is a cross-country conditioning sport, offering a low impact, safe form of exercise. Grant funds will be used to purchase snow shoes for the Physical Education department for all students to utilize. Snowshoeing is a great way to teach students you can be active in the winter—especially in Michigan.
Family Engineering Night (Staci McDonald / Highland)
During this after-school event, families will engage in fun, hands-on activities learning about what engineers do and the role engineering plays in everyday life, as well as discovering career opportunities in engineering. This event will also promote 21st Century skills of inquiry, creativity, teamwork, and collaborative problem solving.
Dr. Robert and Marie McCauley Memorial Grant recipient
Watch D.O.G.S. (Jamie Gradinscak / Highland)
Watch D.O.G.S. (Dads of Great Students) is a nationally recognized program that is an innovative way to increase father involvement by providing positive male role models for students. The grant will be used to purchase a start-up program and future materials to implement this program for a two year trial run.
Capture This: Learning and Leading with Digital Technology (Traci Bradley and Sherry Bell / Highland)
Digital cameras will be purchased for use in the classroom and with the school’s Student Leadership and Fuel Up to Play 60 Team. Students will use digital cameras to capture their lives and school and display photos on student created websites. The goal is to have a motivating resource for students who are the creators of their content.
In Honor of Women in Business, Highland White Lake Business Association Grant recipient
TenMarks Math Luncheon (Stacy Rennie / Country Oaks)
Grant funds will be used to purchase a Chromebook for use by third grade students during lunch time. Students will be able to work at their own pace without the pressure of their peers watching them. Research has shown that students utilizing Chromebooks saw their math test scores increase by 20% in one year, compared to students using traditional textbooks.
Bill Devers Memorial Grant recipient
A Better Way: Elementary Fitness Assessment (Ryan Arnold / Country Oaks)
Physical Educators today are facing increased pressures to be accountable and to publicly report on their achievements. Currently our goal at the elementary level is to improve student levels of health and physical fitness. Grant funds will be used to implement the nationally recognized Fitness Gram® program which will compare students’ results against the nation’s averages.
Lights! Camera! Action! (Larry Chludzinski, Linda Stackpoole, Carla Olando / Oxbow)
Our students love to be challenged and they love to incorporate technology to enhance their learning experiences whenever possible. Chromebooks will be utilized in the second grade classroom where many students have had little or no exposure to technology up until this point. Students will be able to create their own sites where they can document and share what they have learned with others.
Let’s Chat (Sharon Hengtgen, Monica Kerner and Nikki Schneider / Apollo Preschool)
“Let’s Chat” will provide opportunities for preschoolers to develop and practice oral expression through the use of microphones in the classrooms that amplify and record a student’s emerging conversation attempts with adults and peers. Modeling and practice with a microphone that projects and records exchanges is both encouraging and fun!
Just for Ukes (Jim Shouldice / Johnson)
The “Just for Ukes” project will use grant funds to purchase a classroom set of ukuleles for fifth grade music classes. Students will learn various chords and strumming techniques as well as expand their musical vocabulary by learning to play songs from various genres.
Rolling in the “D”, in a Model T (Julie Puffer / Spring Mills)
Henry Ford, creator of the Model T and modern assembly line was passionate about learning and preserving history. Ford represents many of the concepts learned in third grade social studies and a trip to Henry Ford’s Greenfield Village will include a Historic Vehicle Ride Pass. Students will ride on horse drawn carriages, a steam engine or even a Model T. This grant will provide passes for all third graders at Spring Mills to have the opportunity to bring together history and their learning about modes of transportation to life while at Greenfield Village.
Music Meets Technology! (Sylvia LaPratt / Spring Mills)
Technology can open so many doors for students—also in music class. Grant funds will be used to purchase three mini iPads to be used by over 600 students. Music applications will allow students to explore instruments of the orchestra, compose music, engage with rhythm and listen immediately to what they have composed.
When the Teacher is Away, the Students will…SCREEN CAST! (Julie Puffer / Spring Mills)
Students will create digital teaching videos/tutorials to demonstrate their mathematics learning. By allowing students the opportunity to become “the teacher of concepts”, students will be able to strengthen their knowledge and understanding. Students will receive a math problem and must develop strategies for, solve, then explain/teach on a recording. The videos will provide a picture of the students’ understanding of the concepts.
Toddler Home Library (Nikki Scheider, Jamie Felt / HVS Birth to 3 Months)
Grant funds will be used to create a Toddler Home Library for children enrolled in HVS Early Intervention. A new book will be provided monthly for each child to keep in their home library. Families will be given direct instruction as to how to use the book to engage their child, enrich vocabulary, introduce rhyming, and develop a love of books.
Cathie Covert Memorial Grant recipient
MIDDLE SCHOOL GRANTS
Claymation (Cecilia Gollan, Lauri Rowley / Oak Valley)
Nothing engages students more than creating Claymation! With Frames as the foundation, Claymation helps students showcase knowledge using a fun and creative medium. While studying the history of clay animation, students will develop a storyboard and apply the concepts of animation in a cooperative production.
Maus: A Survivor’s Tale – Novel Study (Greg Mauller / White Lake)
Maus: A Survivor’s Tale is a two volume memoir written by Art Spegelman whose parents were Holocaust survivors. The entire story is a memoir in which the author attempts to learn about his mother and father’s experiences at the concentration camp of Auschwitz. Eighth grade students will be exposed to different forms of writing and storytelling and will explore how a narrative nonfiction text can work within a visual framework.
Racing the Sun (Christine Smith / White Lake)
Using engineering design, eighth grade science students will construct solar-powered vehicles, which are propelled by the energy from the sun. Students must consider mass, design principles, friction, and weather as they study the nuclear fusion process of the sun.
In Honor of The Michigan Net, QMN Grant recipient
Growing Green (Cheryl Peters / White Lake)
Grant funds will be used to purchase an Indoor Greenhouse Light Kit which will give students a hands-on experience learning about plant growth and helping our school with our “Going Green” efforts. Students will gain first-hand knowledge about how plants grow and variables that can effect plant growth.
Investigating Lincoln’s Assassination (Seth Taboh / White Lake)
Students will learn what a primary source document is and will be using them to assist in the investigation of the assassination of Abraham Lincoln. They will do this in conjunction with a live, interactive and immersive acting portrayal through Ford’s Theatre in Washington, D.C. A classroom set of the book Chasing Lincoln’s Killer by James L. Swanson will also be purchased and read prior to the virtual experience allowing the students to have background knowledge and information about the assassination and the investigation into President Lincoln’s murder.
Work Tasks (Andrea Moore / Muir)
Work Tasks are one-unit boxes that are designed to help students overcome some of the challenges presented by severe impairments. These boxes aid students in overcoming organizational difficulties to help them complete their work successfully and with as much independence as possible.
Brainology (Deb Fredericks / Muir)
Grant funds will be used to purchase copies of the book Mindset which will be used with 6-8th grade students who are receiving special education services but continue to not be successful in school, even with the extensive interventions attempted. Online parent support as well as meetings will aid families in teaching students a growth mindset.
Picture This! Inspiring Reluctant Readers (Melissa Probe / Muir)
Reading builds success. Teachers are discovering that graphic novels—just like traditional forms of literature—can be useful tools for helping students, especially reluctant readers, to critically examine aspects of history, science, literature and art. Grant funds will be used to expand the collection of graphic novels at the Muir Library.
Clash of the Cooking Crews (Roberta Vander Bann / Muir)
School aged cooks will learn to modify and create their own recipes which are optimized for flavor, appearance and healthfulness. Students will be encouraged to eat healthy while being included in a fun, competitive club-based environment.
HIGH SCHOOL GRANTS
21st Century Broadcasting Technology (Megan Weeks / Milford)
This grant will help bring the equipment and curriculum within the high school Broadcasting/TV Production course up to 21st Century and modern production standards. The severely outdated equipment will be replaced and improved so students can begin to work with industry-standard tools and technology.
Barbara Gavitt Memorial Grant recipient
Creating Connections at Communications Camp (Brigitte Knudson / Lakeland)
Communications Camp is an annual Lakeland tradition where 60 students attend a camp experience that focuses on teaching communication skills through small group interactions and activities by breaking down barriers that may have previously existed due to differences. Grant funds will be used to enable 10 students to attend camp who would otherwise be unable to participate due to cost.
Thomas Ormanday Memorial Grant recipient
Common Core: Improving Speaking and Listening Skills (Nina Rogow / Multiple Buildings)
Research shows that language intervention by a speech and language therapist is most effective when done in the classroom rather than in a “pull-out” setting. This is especially true for secondary students. Funds for this grant will be used to purchase applications to address problems in articulation, phonemic awareness, social skills (and “bullying”), comprehension, vocabulary and verbal problem solving.
DISTRICT-WIDE GRANTS
Theatre Arts Experience (Huron Valley Council for the Arts / 8th graders, 2nd graders and Apollo Preschool)
The Huron Valley Council for the Arts (HVCA) will use this grant to provide a quality based theater arts experience for Huron Valley 8th graders, 2nd grade students and the Apollo preschoolers. Second graders will be provided with a program called “Favorites for Little Theater Goers—The Ugly Duckling” performed by Wild Swan Productions. Eighth graders will hear a program called “The History of American Music” during Black History Month covering over 200 years of music history from slave rhythms to today’s rap music. The “Tunes for Tots” program was created by the HVCA as an outreach program for preschoolers that often do not have the opportunity to enjoy the arts in their community.
Huron Valley Schools Martin Luther King Day 2015 (Isaac Perry / MLK Committee)
The HVS MLK Day is celebrating their 10th annual celebration which is free and open to the public. The events include a variety of celebratory and educational experiences designed to inform, inspire and empower area residents of all ages in support of Civil Rights, nonviolence, tolerance and acceptance.
Huron Valley Educational Foundation
2013 Grant Summaries
ELEMENTARY SCHOOL GRANTS
MaKey Music Project (Denise Martaus / Brook and Lakewood)
As the educational community expands and shifts to embrace teaching all students through the use of technology, using MaKey MaKey boards to compose music in the fourth grade musical classroom will provide a motivational and creative connection to the fourth grade science curriculum. Students will be expanding upon ways in which they can create musical compositions, enforce the learning of musical concepts and participate in small group learning while connecting their science learning of electricity and circuits to their music learning of electronic media and composition.
Leader in Me—Beginning with Kindergarten (Beccie Oltesvig, Laura Rosing, Kelly Brooks and Lindsay Bernardi / Country Oaks)
As Country Oaks becomes a Leader in Me community this concept will also be introduced in the kindergarten environment. The students will benefit from materials to teach and reinforce the Seven Habits of Happy Kids; from stocking classroom libraries with book titles that illustrate each of the habits to displaying common posters for reference. This will help the students discover the principles of leadership in the kindergarten classroom.
Ukulele Jam (Doug Marquis / Country Oaks)
The Ukulele Jam will give students and parents an opportunity to make music together. Participants will be able to take part in group instruction sessions where they will learn basic chords and strumming patterns to accompany several folk and popular songs on ukuleles.
Bill Devers Memorial Grant recipient
Mobile eReader Lab (Susan Black / Highland)
The utilization of eReaders has been shown to greatly impact literacy instruction. A mobile eReader lab will be created for elementary teachers use and will include the purchase of six eReaders and cases. The Media Technician will establish a schedule with the teachers and circulate the mobile lab on a weekly basis for all classrooms.
In Honor of Regina W. Lehker Grant recipient
Classroom iPad (Mary Kay Colaianne / Highland)
Using the Confer Application on a classroom iPad will increase technology integration in the classroom and motivate student learning. Viewing recorded sessions of students themselves reading will serve as a dramatic resource for students to set reading goals and work for attainment of their goals. In addition, the teacher will be better equipped to manage students’ data for further analysis of student achievement.
iPad (Sandra Clarke / Highland)
Using the Confer Application on a classroom iPad will increase technology integration in the classroom and motivate student learning. Viewing recorded sessions of students themselves reading will serve as a dramatic resource for students to set reading goals and work for attainment of their goals. In addition, the teacher will be better equipped to manage students’ data for further analysis of student achievement.
iPad Mini (Marcia Boetsch / Heritage)
iPads and the use of technology in the classroom is a very powerful tool to help children become more eager to try and explore new learning. By utilizing iPads in math stations students are more eager to take risks, try new challenges, start over and try again to find the best way to help them learn. Children are provided with visual evidence of where they are with each of their goals.
Battle of the Bookworms (Kay Hudson, Lyndsey Kiebel and Marie Waters / Lakewood)
Third grade students will participate in a program for readers called “Battle of the Bookworms!” in which the goal is to develop avid, lifelong readers. By providing students with tangible and achievable awards for reading, students will be able to set personal, ongoing reading goals and be awarded with evidence of their achievements.
Cathie Covert Memorial Grant recipient
Improving Speaking & Listening Skills in the Classroom—Elementary Level (Carol Gitre / Lakewood & Kurtz)
Research has shown that language intervention by a speech and language therapist is most effective when done in the “student’s natural environment” (i.e. the classroom) rather than in the traditional pullout setting. The use of an iPad by a speech and language therapist will allow general education students as well as students with disabilities to practice speaking and listening skills in the academic setting.
MIDDLE SCHOOL GRANTS
The Digital Age of Art Education (Abigail Powers / Muir)
The art curriculum can be supported in many ways through technology. Students can explore art history by visiting different museum websites, travel to different countries via the internet and explore different mediums they have learned in class. Eighth grade students will complete their digital imaging project by using an iPad to explore graphic design and create a CD cover. All grades will begin to learn digital drawing through the use of multiple applications. Students will get excited about art in a brand new way!
Reading Everyday Words (Andrea Moore / Muir)
The Edmark Reading system is designed for students with developmental disabilities who need an alternative to the phonics teaching method. The Edmark software package uses sequenced, highly repetitive word recognition methods combined with errorless learning. This approach eliminates incorrect responses and helps student view themselves as readers. ($999)
Science Now! Science Wow! (Shelly Gustafson / Muir)
Middle school students are still fascinated by the unusual, unbelievable, beautiful and even gross aspects of the world of science! Bringing in the Science World Current science magazine for all middle school students to use will help to solidify the students’ interest in science as well as improving their informational text reading and writing strategies.
Clash of the Cooking Crews (Roberta Vander Baan / Muir)
School aged cooks will learn to modify and create their own recipes which are optimized for flavor, appearance and healthfulness. Students will be encouraged to eat healthy while being included in a fun, competitive club-based environment.
Thomas Ormandy Memorial Grant recipient
If the World Were a Village (Chip Lutz, Mike Skatka, Kerry Marszalek and Jennifer Saks / Muir)
Students will be engaged in a cross-curricular, “real world” project about the cultures around the planet, as well as the problems that face our global society. The sixth grade teaching team will create a cross-curricular unit for math, science, social studies and language arts based on the book If the World Were a Village by David J. Smith.
Barbara Gavitt Memorial Grant recipient
Chess in the Classroom (Joe Coraci / Oak Valley)
Students will learn the ancient game of chess in conjunction with the seventh grade curriculum of ancient world history. A chess club will also be created which will be open to all students at the school. Studies have shown that test scores improve for students regularly engaged in playing the game of chess.
In Honor of Women In Business, Highland White Lake Business Association Grant recipient
Building a Digital Classroom (Dave Browne / Oak Valley)
More and more it is becoming easier to incorporate wireless devices into the science curriculum. After piloting the district “Bring Your Own Device” model, there was a high increase in student engagement, collaboration and achievement. By providing iPad minis, students that do not have access to wireless devices will now have access to classroom devices thus providing students with more opportunities to be engaged in the curriculum.
Mobile Check Out (Emily Bliss, Diane Chema / Oak Valley)
21st century learning begins with building a firm foundation of creativity and collaboration into every part of the school day. This grant will increase the learning opportunities for all students by increasing access to technology in our media center. Students and teachers will be able to “check out” mobile technology from the media center for use in their classroom giving everyone the same opportunities to be successful in their learning environment.
ROBOTA (Cecilia Gollan, Lauri Rowley / Oak Valley)
Students will build robots constructed from recycled parts. This project will show students cross-curricular examples from Art, Tech Apps, Science, Math, Social Studies and Language Arts. Students will be able to see how creativity and innovation exist in all subjects and come away with a better understanding of how the real world works after completion of this project. They will also have a working robot.
Textbooks for the Art Room: Scholastic Art Magazine (Cecilia Gollan / Oak Valley)
Scholastic Art Magazine is a unique classroom magazine combining art history, aesthetics lessons and practical studio applications. Students will gain a deeper understanding of topics such as Artists’ work and lives, artistic techniques, visual literacy and more. This resource will also increase reading and writing in a fun way to students.
Digital Sensors in Science (Jennifer Day / Oak Valley)
By utilizing Pasco data sensors we will be able to bring many of our science labs into the 21st century. These sensors will enhance existing and allow for the creation of new hands on opportunities for 7th and 8th grade students in the areas of climate, weather and water quality testing. Students will works in small lab groups and share information with each other wirelessly through an airlink.
What’s Shakin (Cheryl Peters and Amanda Dilloway / White Lake)
This grant will allow 8th grade students several learning experiences. First, students will make models of seismic waves using slinkies and use data collected from the models and seismograph to compare/contrast seismic waves. Next, students will determine how earthquakes affect humans by analyzing the contents of an earthquake survival kit. After analyzing the real kit, students will create a disaster prepared kit for their own household.
In Honor of The Michigan Net, QMN Grant recipient
Windows to the World (Seth Taboh, Hilary Grant, Melly Scofield / White Lake)
One of the key elements of learning in the 21st century classroom is through collaboration and teamwork. The addition of Nokia Lumia 520s in the social studies classrooms will enhance the study of the past with the current and hopefully future technology. These devices will allow students to work on projects together, share information, divide up the work load and stay in contact with each other. These are all qualities students will need to demonstrate later in life as part of their careers.
It’s a Balancing Act (Natalie Moore, Cheryl Peters, Caryl Barber, Tom Sullivan, Joy Camp and Mandy Printz / White Lake)
This grant will allow 800 students the opportunity to accurately collect and record scientific data. By providing hands-on opportunities, the students will understand how to use metric triple balance scales to calculate mass and differentiate between the idea of mass and weight.
HIGH SCHOOL GRANTS
Forensics in the Field (Anne Zambito and Nate Clay / Harbor)
This program will offer a high-quality inquiry-based learning experience for high school science students using a blend of intensive field work and technology. Students will be able to collect and analyze crime scene data, which they will then organize and share with the class using iPads and Smart Board software. This grant services non-traditional students who will be drawn in by the incorporation of exciting iPad technology and gritty crime scene investigations, much like what they have seen on popular forensics show like CSI.
Dr. Robert and Marie McCauley Memorial Grant recipient
Tobacco Cessation Group (Marc Kay / Harbor)
This grant will address student tobacco use including smoking cigarettes and chewing tobacco. By giving students the means to quit smoking, we will see increased interest in academics as students will be able to focus more on their school work. Creating a group for students to cease using tobacco can have long range positive results for both mental and physical well-being.
Dr. William Porter Memorial Grant recipient
Project Wisdom (Rebecca Johnston, Nicole Grabow / Lakeland)
This project will be implemented school-wide as part of the Caring Community initiative with the goal of improving overall school climate. Under this project, all teachers will have online access to lesson plans, motivational messages and other information relating to character education. It has been shown that schools with these programs experience reductions in discipline referrals and improvements in teacher moral and school climate.
Keeping Students Balanced and Engaged (Rebecca Johnston / Lakeland)
Research has shown that sitting on an exercise ball, instead of a chair, helps students stay focused and helps those with sensory processing disorders satisfy their sensory needs. Classroom chairs will be replaced with exercise balls to help students on the autism spectrum stay focused while in class.
DISTRICT-WIDE GRANTS
Improving Speaking & Listening Skills in the Classroom—Secondary Level (Nina Rogow / Milford HS, Lakeland HS, Harbor HS and Oak Valley Middle)
Research has shown that language intervention by a speech and language therapist is most effective when done in the “student’s natural environment” (i.e. the classroom) rather than in the traditional pullout setting. The use of an iPad by a speech and language therapist will allow general education students as well as students with disabilities to practice speaking and listening skills in the academic setting.
Huron Valley’s Got S.O.U.L.: A Collaborative K-12 Multicultural Musical Experience (Joan Baert and Sylvia LaPratt / K-12 Vocal and General Music Teachers)
S.O.U.L. (“Singers of United Lands”) are a quartet of singers/musicians from Croatia, Nigeria, Taiwan and Uruguay who will stay with host families, work with students from Muir, White Lake, Oak Valley, Milford and Lakeland in the mornings, present assemblies at three elementary schools in the afternoons and be the featured guests at the Choirpalooza Choir Concert for all 8th-12th choir students. This residency experience will impact hundreds of students from K-12, promoting awareness of music and culture from around the world as well as providing a unique performing opportunity for secondary vocal music students.
In Honor of the Circle of Change Grant recipient
Theatre Arts Experience (Huron Valley Council for the Arts / 8th graders, 2nd graders and Apollo Preschool)
The Huron Valley Council for the Arts (HVCA) will use this grant to provide a quality based theater arts experience for Huron Valley 8th graders, 2nd grade students and the Apollo preschoolers. Second graders will be provided with a program called “Tall Tales” performed by Wild Swan Productions. Eighth graders will hear a program called “The History of American Music” during Black History Month covering over 200 years of music history from slave rhythms to today’s rap music. The “Tunes for Tots” program was created by the HVCA as an outreach program for preschoolers that often do not have the opportunity to enjoy the arts in their community.
MaKey Music Project (Denise Martaus / Brook and Lakewood)
As the educational community expands and shifts to embrace teaching all students through the use of technology, using MaKey MaKey boards to compose music in the fourth grade musical classroom will provide a motivational and creative connection to the fourth grade science curriculum. Students will be expanding upon ways in which they can create musical compositions, enforce the learning of musical concepts and participate in small group learning while connecting their science learning of electricity and circuits to their music learning of electronic media and composition.
Leader in Me—Beginning with Kindergarten (Beccie Oltesvig, Laura Rosing, Kelly Brooks and Lindsay Bernardi / Country Oaks)
As Country Oaks becomes a Leader in Me community this concept will also be introduced in the kindergarten environment. The students will benefit from materials to teach and reinforce the Seven Habits of Happy Kids; from stocking classroom libraries with book titles that illustrate each of the habits to displaying common posters for reference. This will help the students discover the principles of leadership in the kindergarten classroom.
Ukulele Jam (Doug Marquis / Country Oaks)
The Ukulele Jam will give students and parents an opportunity to make music together. Participants will be able to take part in group instruction sessions where they will learn basic chords and strumming patterns to accompany several folk and popular songs on ukuleles.
Bill Devers Memorial Grant recipient
Mobile eReader Lab (Susan Black / Highland)
The utilization of eReaders has been shown to greatly impact literacy instruction. A mobile eReader lab will be created for elementary teachers use and will include the purchase of six eReaders and cases. The Media Technician will establish a schedule with the teachers and circulate the mobile lab on a weekly basis for all classrooms.
In Honor of Regina W. Lehker Grant recipient
Classroom iPad (Mary Kay Colaianne / Highland)
Using the Confer Application on a classroom iPad will increase technology integration in the classroom and motivate student learning. Viewing recorded sessions of students themselves reading will serve as a dramatic resource for students to set reading goals and work for attainment of their goals. In addition, the teacher will be better equipped to manage students’ data for further analysis of student achievement.
iPad (Sandra Clarke / Highland)
Using the Confer Application on a classroom iPad will increase technology integration in the classroom and motivate student learning. Viewing recorded sessions of students themselves reading will serve as a dramatic resource for students to set reading goals and work for attainment of their goals. In addition, the teacher will be better equipped to manage students’ data for further analysis of student achievement.
iPad Mini (Marcia Boetsch / Heritage)
iPads and the use of technology in the classroom is a very powerful tool to help children become more eager to try and explore new learning. By utilizing iPads in math stations students are more eager to take risks, try new challenges, start over and try again to find the best way to help them learn. Children are provided with visual evidence of where they are with each of their goals.
Battle of the Bookworms (Kay Hudson, Lyndsey Kiebel and Marie Waters / Lakewood)
Third grade students will participate in a program for readers called “Battle of the Bookworms!” in which the goal is to develop avid, lifelong readers. By providing students with tangible and achievable awards for reading, students will be able to set personal, ongoing reading goals and be awarded with evidence of their achievements.
Cathie Covert Memorial Grant recipient
Improving Speaking & Listening Skills in the Classroom—Elementary Level (Carol Gitre / Lakewood & Kurtz)
Research has shown that language intervention by a speech and language therapist is most effective when done in the “student’s natural environment” (i.e. the classroom) rather than in the traditional pullout setting. The use of an iPad by a speech and language therapist will allow general education students as well as students with disabilities to practice speaking and listening skills in the academic setting.
MIDDLE SCHOOL GRANTS
The Digital Age of Art Education (Abigail Powers / Muir)
The art curriculum can be supported in many ways through technology. Students can explore art history by visiting different museum websites, travel to different countries via the internet and explore different mediums they have learned in class. Eighth grade students will complete their digital imaging project by using an iPad to explore graphic design and create a CD cover. All grades will begin to learn digital drawing through the use of multiple applications. Students will get excited about art in a brand new way!
Reading Everyday Words (Andrea Moore / Muir)
The Edmark Reading system is designed for students with developmental disabilities who need an alternative to the phonics teaching method. The Edmark software package uses sequenced, highly repetitive word recognition methods combined with errorless learning. This approach eliminates incorrect responses and helps student view themselves as readers. ($999)
Science Now! Science Wow! (Shelly Gustafson / Muir)
Middle school students are still fascinated by the unusual, unbelievable, beautiful and even gross aspects of the world of science! Bringing in the Science World Current science magazine for all middle school students to use will help to solidify the students’ interest in science as well as improving their informational text reading and writing strategies.
Clash of the Cooking Crews (Roberta Vander Baan / Muir)
School aged cooks will learn to modify and create their own recipes which are optimized for flavor, appearance and healthfulness. Students will be encouraged to eat healthy while being included in a fun, competitive club-based environment.
Thomas Ormandy Memorial Grant recipient
If the World Were a Village (Chip Lutz, Mike Skatka, Kerry Marszalek and Jennifer Saks / Muir)
Students will be engaged in a cross-curricular, “real world” project about the cultures around the planet, as well as the problems that face our global society. The sixth grade teaching team will create a cross-curricular unit for math, science, social studies and language arts based on the book If the World Were a Village by David J. Smith.
Barbara Gavitt Memorial Grant recipient
Chess in the Classroom (Joe Coraci / Oak Valley)
Students will learn the ancient game of chess in conjunction with the seventh grade curriculum of ancient world history. A chess club will also be created which will be open to all students at the school. Studies have shown that test scores improve for students regularly engaged in playing the game of chess.
In Honor of Women In Business, Highland White Lake Business Association Grant recipient
Building a Digital Classroom (Dave Browne / Oak Valley)
More and more it is becoming easier to incorporate wireless devices into the science curriculum. After piloting the district “Bring Your Own Device” model, there was a high increase in student engagement, collaboration and achievement. By providing iPad minis, students that do not have access to wireless devices will now have access to classroom devices thus providing students with more opportunities to be engaged in the curriculum.
Mobile Check Out (Emily Bliss, Diane Chema / Oak Valley)
21st century learning begins with building a firm foundation of creativity and collaboration into every part of the school day. This grant will increase the learning opportunities for all students by increasing access to technology in our media center. Students and teachers will be able to “check out” mobile technology from the media center for use in their classroom giving everyone the same opportunities to be successful in their learning environment.
ROBOTA (Cecilia Gollan, Lauri Rowley / Oak Valley)
Students will build robots constructed from recycled parts. This project will show students cross-curricular examples from Art, Tech Apps, Science, Math, Social Studies and Language Arts. Students will be able to see how creativity and innovation exist in all subjects and come away with a better understanding of how the real world works after completion of this project. They will also have a working robot.
Textbooks for the Art Room: Scholastic Art Magazine (Cecilia Gollan / Oak Valley)
Scholastic Art Magazine is a unique classroom magazine combining art history, aesthetics lessons and practical studio applications. Students will gain a deeper understanding of topics such as Artists’ work and lives, artistic techniques, visual literacy and more. This resource will also increase reading and writing in a fun way to students.
Digital Sensors in Science (Jennifer Day / Oak Valley)
By utilizing Pasco data sensors we will be able to bring many of our science labs into the 21st century. These sensors will enhance existing and allow for the creation of new hands on opportunities for 7th and 8th grade students in the areas of climate, weather and water quality testing. Students will works in small lab groups and share information with each other wirelessly through an airlink.
What’s Shakin (Cheryl Peters and Amanda Dilloway / White Lake)
This grant will allow 8th grade students several learning experiences. First, students will make models of seismic waves using slinkies and use data collected from the models and seismograph to compare/contrast seismic waves. Next, students will determine how earthquakes affect humans by analyzing the contents of an earthquake survival kit. After analyzing the real kit, students will create a disaster prepared kit for their own household.
In Honor of The Michigan Net, QMN Grant recipient
Windows to the World (Seth Taboh, Hilary Grant, Melly Scofield / White Lake)
One of the key elements of learning in the 21st century classroom is through collaboration and teamwork. The addition of Nokia Lumia 520s in the social studies classrooms will enhance the study of the past with the current and hopefully future technology. These devices will allow students to work on projects together, share information, divide up the work load and stay in contact with each other. These are all qualities students will need to demonstrate later in life as part of their careers.
It’s a Balancing Act (Natalie Moore, Cheryl Peters, Caryl Barber, Tom Sullivan, Joy Camp and Mandy Printz / White Lake)
This grant will allow 800 students the opportunity to accurately collect and record scientific data. By providing hands-on opportunities, the students will understand how to use metric triple balance scales to calculate mass and differentiate between the idea of mass and weight.
HIGH SCHOOL GRANTS
Forensics in the Field (Anne Zambito and Nate Clay / Harbor)
This program will offer a high-quality inquiry-based learning experience for high school science students using a blend of intensive field work and technology. Students will be able to collect and analyze crime scene data, which they will then organize and share with the class using iPads and Smart Board software. This grant services non-traditional students who will be drawn in by the incorporation of exciting iPad technology and gritty crime scene investigations, much like what they have seen on popular forensics show like CSI.
Dr. Robert and Marie McCauley Memorial Grant recipient
Tobacco Cessation Group (Marc Kay / Harbor)
This grant will address student tobacco use including smoking cigarettes and chewing tobacco. By giving students the means to quit smoking, we will see increased interest in academics as students will be able to focus more on their school work. Creating a group for students to cease using tobacco can have long range positive results for both mental and physical well-being.
Dr. William Porter Memorial Grant recipient
Project Wisdom (Rebecca Johnston, Nicole Grabow / Lakeland)
This project will be implemented school-wide as part of the Caring Community initiative with the goal of improving overall school climate. Under this project, all teachers will have online access to lesson plans, motivational messages and other information relating to character education. It has been shown that schools with these programs experience reductions in discipline referrals and improvements in teacher moral and school climate.
Keeping Students Balanced and Engaged (Rebecca Johnston / Lakeland)
Research has shown that sitting on an exercise ball, instead of a chair, helps students stay focused and helps those with sensory processing disorders satisfy their sensory needs. Classroom chairs will be replaced with exercise balls to help students on the autism spectrum stay focused while in class.
DISTRICT-WIDE GRANTS
Improving Speaking & Listening Skills in the Classroom—Secondary Level (Nina Rogow / Milford HS, Lakeland HS, Harbor HS and Oak Valley Middle)
Research has shown that language intervention by a speech and language therapist is most effective when done in the “student’s natural environment” (i.e. the classroom) rather than in the traditional pullout setting. The use of an iPad by a speech and language therapist will allow general education students as well as students with disabilities to practice speaking and listening skills in the academic setting.
Huron Valley’s Got S.O.U.L.: A Collaborative K-12 Multicultural Musical Experience (Joan Baert and Sylvia LaPratt / K-12 Vocal and General Music Teachers)
S.O.U.L. (“Singers of United Lands”) are a quartet of singers/musicians from Croatia, Nigeria, Taiwan and Uruguay who will stay with host families, work with students from Muir, White Lake, Oak Valley, Milford and Lakeland in the mornings, present assemblies at three elementary schools in the afternoons and be the featured guests at the Choirpalooza Choir Concert for all 8th-12th choir students. This residency experience will impact hundreds of students from K-12, promoting awareness of music and culture from around the world as well as providing a unique performing opportunity for secondary vocal music students.
In Honor of the Circle of Change Grant recipient
Theatre Arts Experience (Huron Valley Council for the Arts / 8th graders, 2nd graders and Apollo Preschool)
The Huron Valley Council for the Arts (HVCA) will use this grant to provide a quality based theater arts experience for Huron Valley 8th graders, 2nd grade students and the Apollo preschoolers. Second graders will be provided with a program called “Tall Tales” performed by Wild Swan Productions. Eighth graders will hear a program called “The History of American Music” during Black History Month covering over 200 years of music history from slave rhythms to today’s rap music. The “Tunes for Tots” program was created by the HVCA as an outreach program for preschoolers that often do not have the opportunity to enjoy the arts in their community.
Huron Valley Educational Foundation
2012 Grant Summaries
Elementary School Grants
Health Through Literacy (John Minna / Heritage)
Wellness bags, created in the classroom, will travel home with students to expand the outreach of health education from the classroom into students’ homes. These bags will contain new books about nutrition and making healthy choices, drawing materials, and even children’s music, engaging the families and encouraging parents and guardians to set examples from the grocery store to the dinner table.
Ready, Set, Keep Time! (Lori Stewart / Kurtz)
“Mark-my-time” is an award winning, highly recommended, digital bookmark that a child can keep in their book and use to monitor their own reading progress. These tools will be used to entice 3rd graders to be excited about reading -- clocking their progress, becoming more motivated, independent learners.
School Bus Rocks (Jessica Stuart / Kurtz)
Targeting a school improvement goal, improving math fact fluency, Kurtz will equip 5 school busses with audio transmitters and an IPod shuffle loaded with math fact songs to be played during the students’ bus ride to and from school. Having the students sing math fact songs not only on the bus, but also in assemblies and with take-home options for parents/guardians, will continually reinforce math fact recall.
Off to the Green Races (Justin Haas / Lakewood)
Students will build the most cost effective and environmentally efficient solar paneled mini-car that can cross the finish line. This problem-solving, hands-on project will span several weeks and begin with a brainstorming and planning process. The project will encompass writing, reading, science and math objectives as well as test teamwork, organization, and planning skills.
Stand Up Desks (Sandy Cleary / Spring Mills)
Stand up desks use a pendulum footrest to help students release excess energy and improve posture so they can stay focused on lessons. These learning solutions will be introduced as an option for upper elementary students who have been diagnosed with ADHD, who are not on medication and have been underperforming, with a goal to keep them more focused and responsible for their own learning.
Middle School Grants
Predicting Weather (Shelley Gustafson / Muir)
Muir will have its own weather station. Utilizing real-time weather data from a wireless weather station with a radiation shield, 7th grade students will record, track and predict weather. They will look at weather trends throughout the year and learn about variables that cause weather change.
Unique Learners (Andrea Moore / Muir)
Students with cognitive impairments will use The Unique Learning system, an online standard-based curriculum program designed specifically for them. There are monthly instructional unit themes in science and social studies that translate directly into classroom activities for all 5 core subjects: Reading, Writing, Math, Science and Social Studies, and also integrates News-2-You (a weekly current events newspaper).
Snakes and Snails and Action Tales (Melissa Probe / Muir)
Study after study shows that boys read less than girls and perform far below their female counterparts on standardized tests. It’s a clear case of supply and demand, as the overwhelming majority of books sold in stores are geared toward female readers. This grant will begin to address the inequity with titles and topics to stimulate the male reader and make Muir’s library collection as appealing to boys as it is to girls.
Can You Taste It? (Robin DesChamps, Natalie Moore, Mandy Printz / White Lake)
7th grade science students at Muir will gain a deeper foundation of the principles of genetics and heredity with hands-on, real world inquiry-based activities. The students will act as real scientists, discovering how traits are inherited based on dominant and recessive genes. They will learn how genes and chromosomes are passed on through meiosis during sexual versus asexual reproduction.
High School Grants
Catch a Wave (Lori Gleason / Milford)
“We want to catch a wave!” This oscilloscope will allow students to capture sound waves with a microphone, electrical signals and a voltage probe. These waves will then be able to be displayed on either a Smart Board or computer, allowing for analysis. The device also outputs standard signal waves for comparison. Students will gain firsthand understanding of both sound and electrical concepts.
Health Through Literacy (John Minna / Heritage)
Wellness bags, created in the classroom, will travel home with students to expand the outreach of health education from the classroom into students’ homes. These bags will contain new books about nutrition and making healthy choices, drawing materials, and even children’s music, engaging the families and encouraging parents and guardians to set examples from the grocery store to the dinner table.
Ready, Set, Keep Time! (Lori Stewart / Kurtz)
“Mark-my-time” is an award winning, highly recommended, digital bookmark that a child can keep in their book and use to monitor their own reading progress. These tools will be used to entice 3rd graders to be excited about reading -- clocking their progress, becoming more motivated, independent learners.
School Bus Rocks (Jessica Stuart / Kurtz)
Targeting a school improvement goal, improving math fact fluency, Kurtz will equip 5 school busses with audio transmitters and an IPod shuffle loaded with math fact songs to be played during the students’ bus ride to and from school. Having the students sing math fact songs not only on the bus, but also in assemblies and with take-home options for parents/guardians, will continually reinforce math fact recall.
Off to the Green Races (Justin Haas / Lakewood)
Students will build the most cost effective and environmentally efficient solar paneled mini-car that can cross the finish line. This problem-solving, hands-on project will span several weeks and begin with a brainstorming and planning process. The project will encompass writing, reading, science and math objectives as well as test teamwork, organization, and planning skills.
Stand Up Desks (Sandy Cleary / Spring Mills)
Stand up desks use a pendulum footrest to help students release excess energy and improve posture so they can stay focused on lessons. These learning solutions will be introduced as an option for upper elementary students who have been diagnosed with ADHD, who are not on medication and have been underperforming, with a goal to keep them more focused and responsible for their own learning.
Middle School Grants
Predicting Weather (Shelley Gustafson / Muir)
Muir will have its own weather station. Utilizing real-time weather data from a wireless weather station with a radiation shield, 7th grade students will record, track and predict weather. They will look at weather trends throughout the year and learn about variables that cause weather change.
Unique Learners (Andrea Moore / Muir)
Students with cognitive impairments will use The Unique Learning system, an online standard-based curriculum program designed specifically for them. There are monthly instructional unit themes in science and social studies that translate directly into classroom activities for all 5 core subjects: Reading, Writing, Math, Science and Social Studies, and also integrates News-2-You (a weekly current events newspaper).
Snakes and Snails and Action Tales (Melissa Probe / Muir)
Study after study shows that boys read less than girls and perform far below their female counterparts on standardized tests. It’s a clear case of supply and demand, as the overwhelming majority of books sold in stores are geared toward female readers. This grant will begin to address the inequity with titles and topics to stimulate the male reader and make Muir’s library collection as appealing to boys as it is to girls.
Can You Taste It? (Robin DesChamps, Natalie Moore, Mandy Printz / White Lake)
7th grade science students at Muir will gain a deeper foundation of the principles of genetics and heredity with hands-on, real world inquiry-based activities. The students will act as real scientists, discovering how traits are inherited based on dominant and recessive genes. They will learn how genes and chromosomes are passed on through meiosis during sexual versus asexual reproduction.
High School Grants
Catch a Wave (Lori Gleason / Milford)
“We want to catch a wave!” This oscilloscope will allow students to capture sound waves with a microphone, electrical signals and a voltage probe. These waves will then be able to be displayed on either a Smart Board or computer, allowing for analysis. The device also outputs standard signal waves for comparison. Students will gain firsthand understanding of both sound and electrical concepts.
Huron Valley Educational Foundation
2011 Grant Summaries
Elementary School Grants
Yoga (Jason Preibe / Country Oaks)
Students sometimes believe that the only way they can stay in shape is by playing sports. This equipment grant will allow students to learn an alternative way to stay healthy - through yoga! They will learn about, and feel, the benefits of yoga - such as increasing body flexibility and building muscle strength. Furthermore, they will take part in a current fitness trend that can extend into a family and lifelong activity.
Teaching with Technology - The SMART Way (Amy Suryan / Johnson)
Student in the 1st grade will be incorporating wireless slates to interact with the classroom SMART Board. The slates can be used from anywhere in the classroom, and will be used to enhance subject areas including language arts, math, social studies and health. For example, just imagine the intervention and coaching that can now occur with reluctant writers, as their problem solving strategies unfold!
The Leader In Me (Jennifer Hollander / Heritage)
“The Leader in Me” is a school-wide initiative introducing a leadership development process for students, staff and parents. The process integrate timeless leadership principles into school culture, driving transformational results. It give all participants a common language built upon proven principle-based leadership skills found in Dr. Stephen Covey’s bestseller, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. In Honor of Women in Business, Highland Business Association Grant recipient.
Character Is Cool (Elizabeth Dunn & Sherry Bell / Highland & Heritage)
A positive learning environment is essential for physical education classes; nurturing student self-perception and self-image is a critical variable. In teaching fitness or sport skills, there is an opportunity to also teach about character and social skills. The “Character is Cool” program facilitates the integration of these skills into activities, where students take “learnable pieces” and practice them in authentic situations. Barbara Gavitt Memorial Grant recipient.
Conscious Discipline Workshop (Debbie David / Kurtz)
Conscious Discipline Workshops consist of a variety of student, parent and family tools which teach 7 basic skills and values for turning conflict into cooperation at home and in the classroom. The workshop will be a multi-part undertaking, with both in-class and monthly parent meetings, which will be open to any of Kurtz parents. This grant funds support materials for Conscious Discipline: DVD’s, books and music CD’s. Barbara Gavitt Memorial Grant recipient.
What Kind of “SMART” Are You? (Jennifer Pipkin / Spring Mills)
Embracing HVS’s value on each student’s individuality and special talents, these Spring Mills 2nd graders are going to become actively engaged through multiple intelligences. Each student will gain a better understanding of HOW he or she learns best, and an appreciation of their peers learning styles by utilizing new materials and activities designed to define and address their own combination of learning needs.
Middle School Grants
Investigating Alternative Energies (Dave Browne & Tom Lock / Oak Valley)
Student will collaborate in this project, to survive being stranded on an island by creating a shelter/home run on sustainable energy. They will learn how energy from plants can be converted to fuel, and will have to research designs and catalog their work. Students will experiment with solar panels, windmills, greenhouses, and desalination systems, as well as create machinery, solar cookers & hot water tanks, and sail cars. Barbara Gavitt Memorial Grant recipient.
Books Alive (Sara Sharpe & Melissa Weekerly / Oak Valley)
Reading stories and novels is a middle school requirement many special education students struggle with. But now, with the purchase of wand scanners, teachers will have the ability to quickly and easily scan and load material into the Kurzweil programs already on their computers - which will proceed to read the novel aloud (while also incorporating a dictionary, highlighter and other features to facilitate auditory learning).
Treasure from Trash (Trina Buell & Shelley Gustafson / Muir)
This grant has a two-fold purpose; Address science curriculum and facilitate collaboration of Cognitively Impaired students with Muir’s Environmental Group. Together, they will begin a composting program, demonstrating physical/chemical changes in the cycles of nature, and providing environment enhancement by decreasing the amount of compostable trash, instead using it to create and grow a native garden.
Meteorologist in the Making (Shelley Gustafson / Muir)
Seventh graders use new equipment (hygrometers, anemometers, traceable barometer and topographic globes) to enhance their understanding of meteorology. The students will first study climate, the uneven heating of the Earth’s surface by the sun and seasons, and the impact of different latitudes. Once climate is grasped, students will apply this understanding to weather dynamics and scientific weather prediction.
Grad 100 & Beyond / Yes, I Can Go to College (Vickie Kaid / Muir)
By 8th grade, many students struggling with a Learning Disability stop trying to academically push. The goal of this grant is to help students see the future, beyond their disability. LD students are frequently unaware of support available at 4-year colleges. Partnering with Eastern Michigan, Muir LD students will visit EMU, SEE assistance resources available, and be encourages to stay motivated and invested in their futures.
Start Light, Star Bright (Caryl Barber / White Lake)
This is a wonderful, hands-on activity that can be used for years to come. 8th grade students will learn how scientists determine what starts are made-up of chemically, and will come to understand electromagnetic radiation. Grant money will purchase gas tubes and diffraction glasses to use with a powered spectrum stand, allowing students to view common gasses in stars - hydrogen, helium, nitrogen and neon.
Recording to Learn (Heather Fitzpatrick & Kathy Sorvari / White Lake)
The burning question nowadays is how to use technology to keep music education relevant and current. A digital recorder and iPod can engage students in becoming educators in their own learning. It allows the 400 WLMS music students to take classroom recording, upload them, critically analyze their parts and plan for improvement, and even absent students will have access to what was covered in missed rehearsals.
Exploring Themes & Narrative Forms with Maud (Ben Malecki / White Lake)
HVS 8th graders read Anne Frank when studying Nazi Germany and the Holocaust, this grant allows accompaniment reading of Art Spiegelman’s Maus: A Survivor’s Tale. This is a nonfiction, graphic novel, that blends visuals with a compelling story. Students who have not been exposed to different forms of writing will explore how narrative nonfiction text can work within a visual framework to portray history. Thomas Ormandy Memorial Grant recipient.
It’s a Snap to be Green (Cheryl Peters / White Lake)
With the Elenco Electronics Snap Circuits Alternative Energy Kit, students will get hand-on experience learning about alternate energy and green technologies. Using the kits, they will experiment with solar power, windmills, hydroelectric power, rechargeable and liquid batteries - experiencing green energy generation firsthand. Following these experiments they will make classroom presentations regarding their findings.
High School Grants
Blood, Bugs and Bogus Documents: Inquiry Through Forensics (Nathan Clay / Harbor)
This pilot course in forensic science integrates rigorous scientific inquiry with essential non-fiction writing skills and the legal process. Students will learn how to collect evidence and integrate math, biology and chemistry concepts to inventory data. The hands-on activities funded include labs in: Blood splatter analysis, Questioned documents, and Forensics entomology.
Words Come to Life (Maureen Convery, Anna Fleury, Kevin Hankinson / International Academy)
In the context of studying the Puritan unit for International Baccalaureate literature studies, students read Arthur Millers’s The Crucible. To enhance the students’ experience with the work and their appreciation of the process of artistic and drama creation, they will not only attend the play (professionally performed), but will also participate in a mini-workshop with the director, actors and actresses.
Hands On Psychology (Stacy Oddi / Lakeland)
Students engage in two interactive psychology experiments to experience curriculum topics firsthand. Imagine directly studying sensory adaptation by wearing “Perception Googles” - spray painted dark googles with clear 45-degree prisms welded onto the lenses. “Maze Day” engages pairs of students, solving Masonite board maze patterns, competing and then comparing data on the completion times and learning curves.
Compost Bin (Stephanie Crow / Milford)
Milford High’s AP Environmental Science class and Garden Club will collaborate in engineering two core aspects of the APES’s curriculum, Ecosystems and Green Technology. The two groups will work to education the entire student body and staff about the need and science of composting. The composting will provide a real-world application, as the students create a free source for garden fertilizer for the building.
Yoga (Jason Preibe / Country Oaks)
Students sometimes believe that the only way they can stay in shape is by playing sports. This equipment grant will allow students to learn an alternative way to stay healthy - through yoga! They will learn about, and feel, the benefits of yoga - such as increasing body flexibility and building muscle strength. Furthermore, they will take part in a current fitness trend that can extend into a family and lifelong activity.
Teaching with Technology - The SMART Way (Amy Suryan / Johnson)
Student in the 1st grade will be incorporating wireless slates to interact with the classroom SMART Board. The slates can be used from anywhere in the classroom, and will be used to enhance subject areas including language arts, math, social studies and health. For example, just imagine the intervention and coaching that can now occur with reluctant writers, as their problem solving strategies unfold!
The Leader In Me (Jennifer Hollander / Heritage)
“The Leader in Me” is a school-wide initiative introducing a leadership development process for students, staff and parents. The process integrate timeless leadership principles into school culture, driving transformational results. It give all participants a common language built upon proven principle-based leadership skills found in Dr. Stephen Covey’s bestseller, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. In Honor of Women in Business, Highland Business Association Grant recipient.
Character Is Cool (Elizabeth Dunn & Sherry Bell / Highland & Heritage)
A positive learning environment is essential for physical education classes; nurturing student self-perception and self-image is a critical variable. In teaching fitness or sport skills, there is an opportunity to also teach about character and social skills. The “Character is Cool” program facilitates the integration of these skills into activities, where students take “learnable pieces” and practice them in authentic situations. Barbara Gavitt Memorial Grant recipient.
Conscious Discipline Workshop (Debbie David / Kurtz)
Conscious Discipline Workshops consist of a variety of student, parent and family tools which teach 7 basic skills and values for turning conflict into cooperation at home and in the classroom. The workshop will be a multi-part undertaking, with both in-class and monthly parent meetings, which will be open to any of Kurtz parents. This grant funds support materials for Conscious Discipline: DVD’s, books and music CD’s. Barbara Gavitt Memorial Grant recipient.
What Kind of “SMART” Are You? (Jennifer Pipkin / Spring Mills)
Embracing HVS’s value on each student’s individuality and special talents, these Spring Mills 2nd graders are going to become actively engaged through multiple intelligences. Each student will gain a better understanding of HOW he or she learns best, and an appreciation of their peers learning styles by utilizing new materials and activities designed to define and address their own combination of learning needs.
Middle School Grants
Investigating Alternative Energies (Dave Browne & Tom Lock / Oak Valley)
Student will collaborate in this project, to survive being stranded on an island by creating a shelter/home run on sustainable energy. They will learn how energy from plants can be converted to fuel, and will have to research designs and catalog their work. Students will experiment with solar panels, windmills, greenhouses, and desalination systems, as well as create machinery, solar cookers & hot water tanks, and sail cars. Barbara Gavitt Memorial Grant recipient.
Books Alive (Sara Sharpe & Melissa Weekerly / Oak Valley)
Reading stories and novels is a middle school requirement many special education students struggle with. But now, with the purchase of wand scanners, teachers will have the ability to quickly and easily scan and load material into the Kurzweil programs already on their computers - which will proceed to read the novel aloud (while also incorporating a dictionary, highlighter and other features to facilitate auditory learning).
Treasure from Trash (Trina Buell & Shelley Gustafson / Muir)
This grant has a two-fold purpose; Address science curriculum and facilitate collaboration of Cognitively Impaired students with Muir’s Environmental Group. Together, they will begin a composting program, demonstrating physical/chemical changes in the cycles of nature, and providing environment enhancement by decreasing the amount of compostable trash, instead using it to create and grow a native garden.
Meteorologist in the Making (Shelley Gustafson / Muir)
Seventh graders use new equipment (hygrometers, anemometers, traceable barometer and topographic globes) to enhance their understanding of meteorology. The students will first study climate, the uneven heating of the Earth’s surface by the sun and seasons, and the impact of different latitudes. Once climate is grasped, students will apply this understanding to weather dynamics and scientific weather prediction.
Grad 100 & Beyond / Yes, I Can Go to College (Vickie Kaid / Muir)
By 8th grade, many students struggling with a Learning Disability stop trying to academically push. The goal of this grant is to help students see the future, beyond their disability. LD students are frequently unaware of support available at 4-year colleges. Partnering with Eastern Michigan, Muir LD students will visit EMU, SEE assistance resources available, and be encourages to stay motivated and invested in their futures.
Start Light, Star Bright (Caryl Barber / White Lake)
This is a wonderful, hands-on activity that can be used for years to come. 8th grade students will learn how scientists determine what starts are made-up of chemically, and will come to understand electromagnetic radiation. Grant money will purchase gas tubes and diffraction glasses to use with a powered spectrum stand, allowing students to view common gasses in stars - hydrogen, helium, nitrogen and neon.
Recording to Learn (Heather Fitzpatrick & Kathy Sorvari / White Lake)
The burning question nowadays is how to use technology to keep music education relevant and current. A digital recorder and iPod can engage students in becoming educators in their own learning. It allows the 400 WLMS music students to take classroom recording, upload them, critically analyze their parts and plan for improvement, and even absent students will have access to what was covered in missed rehearsals.
Exploring Themes & Narrative Forms with Maud (Ben Malecki / White Lake)
HVS 8th graders read Anne Frank when studying Nazi Germany and the Holocaust, this grant allows accompaniment reading of Art Spiegelman’s Maus: A Survivor’s Tale. This is a nonfiction, graphic novel, that blends visuals with a compelling story. Students who have not been exposed to different forms of writing will explore how narrative nonfiction text can work within a visual framework to portray history. Thomas Ormandy Memorial Grant recipient.
It’s a Snap to be Green (Cheryl Peters / White Lake)
With the Elenco Electronics Snap Circuits Alternative Energy Kit, students will get hand-on experience learning about alternate energy and green technologies. Using the kits, they will experiment with solar power, windmills, hydroelectric power, rechargeable and liquid batteries - experiencing green energy generation firsthand. Following these experiments they will make classroom presentations regarding their findings.
High School Grants
Blood, Bugs and Bogus Documents: Inquiry Through Forensics (Nathan Clay / Harbor)
This pilot course in forensic science integrates rigorous scientific inquiry with essential non-fiction writing skills and the legal process. Students will learn how to collect evidence and integrate math, biology and chemistry concepts to inventory data. The hands-on activities funded include labs in: Blood splatter analysis, Questioned documents, and Forensics entomology.
Words Come to Life (Maureen Convery, Anna Fleury, Kevin Hankinson / International Academy)
In the context of studying the Puritan unit for International Baccalaureate literature studies, students read Arthur Millers’s The Crucible. To enhance the students’ experience with the work and their appreciation of the process of artistic and drama creation, they will not only attend the play (professionally performed), but will also participate in a mini-workshop with the director, actors and actresses.
Hands On Psychology (Stacy Oddi / Lakeland)
Students engage in two interactive psychology experiments to experience curriculum topics firsthand. Imagine directly studying sensory adaptation by wearing “Perception Googles” - spray painted dark googles with clear 45-degree prisms welded onto the lenses. “Maze Day” engages pairs of students, solving Masonite board maze patterns, competing and then comparing data on the completion times and learning curves.
Compost Bin (Stephanie Crow / Milford)
Milford High’s AP Environmental Science class and Garden Club will collaborate in engineering two core aspects of the APES’s curriculum, Ecosystems and Green Technology. The two groups will work to education the entire student body and staff about the need and science of composting. The composting will provide a real-world application, as the students create a free source for garden fertilizer for the building.
