October Innovation Grants Announced

New month, new innovations!

All five schools are included in the latest round of Innovation Grants, which feature a wide variety of cutting-edge educational initiatives, such as flexible seating and a playground communication board.

Teachers are invited to apply for iGrants each month, each valued at up to $1,000, to support inventive curriculum-based projects. These grants are a testament to the pioneering spirit of educators driving positive change within the District.

Read all about October's winning submissions below:

• Flexible Seating (Yorktown High School): Embracing a modern approach to learning environments, this project at Yorktown High School seeks to introduce flexible seating arrangements. By creating a comfortable and adaptable classroom setting, the initiative aims to enhance student engagement and foster a welcoming atmosphere conducive to learning.

• School Garden (Mohansic): Mohansic Elementary is set to blossom with an outdoor classroom and garden. This thoughtful project integrates nature into learning experiences, allowing second graders to engage in hands-on lessons about plant life, environmental awareness, and the interdependence of living organisms.

• Playground Communication Board (Crompond): Aiming for inclusive play, Crompond Elementary proposes installing communication boards on playgrounds. These boards, adorned with symbols paired with words, will facilitate communication for students with verbal communication difficulties or those learning English, fostering interaction and understanding among peers and supervising staff.

• 15 for Life Mental Health Awareness Project (MESMS): This initiative at Mildred E. Strang Middle School is dedicated to destigmatizing mental health discussions among students. Through classroom activities, guest speakers, and a schoolwide commitment, the project aims to empower students to recognize, understand, and address mental health challenges.

• Coffee Cart (Brookside): Brookside Elementary unveils a unique life skills program centered around a coffee cart initiative. This project not only imparts essential skills like financial literacy and teamwork but also integrates students into the school community, fostering responsibility and a sense of accomplishment.

You can also read our story about the September Innovation Grants here.