Since 1994, District 64's Elementary Learning Foundation (ELF) has established and supported innovative educational programs by awarding grants to teachers and staff who are committed to excellence in education.
More than $30,000 in grants were awarded to District 64 schools for 2016-17, advancing ELF’s total direct grants to nearly $740,000!
ELF Chairman Heather Imhoff announced the recipients at the May 23, 2016 Board of Education meeting:
- Active Learning Environment Makeover - Lincoln Middle School - This project creates a 6th grade classroom that has flexibility, mobility and usability, building a space that allows and encourages students to collaborate, communicate and engage in critical thinking. As an Active and Flexible Learning Environment, the layout of furniture would allow for multiple learning configurations and would accommodate the multitude of ways students learn. The active/flexible learning space would allow students to choose what type of learning space works best for them. This project supports District 64’s 2020 Vision Strategic Plan Objective 5.
- 2nd Grade 21st Century Learning Environment - Washington School - This project provides alternative seating and work areas in all 2nd grade Washington classrooms to enable flexible grouping and movement options for students, thus increasing their success rate and comfort. The objective is to promote active, engaged learning, and to promote health by strengthening their cores in the classroom environment where they spend the majority of their waking hours. This project also supports District 64’s 202 Vision Strategic Plan Objective 5.
- Kindergarten Ready Set Work - All Elementary Schools - This project addresses the growing need to improve postural endurance and fine motor strength at an early age for all children. The project will provide each District 64 Kindergarten classroom an adjustable standing table that would be used during the Daily 5 instructional period and throughout the day. The standing table would allow an alternative option to sitting in the classroom.
- Portable PA System - Emerson Middle School - This grant provides the Physical Education Department at Emerson a means to encourage more physical activity and better performance in their classes by utilizing a portable PA system to play music and deliver instruction when outside, without disrupting the classroom teachers. Students will then move to the music and take advantage of the latest technology.
To contribute, volunteer or learn more about ELF, visit the ELF website.