By 1808Delaware
Twelve creative and impactful initiatives across the Westerville City School District have received a boost from the Westerville Education Foundation (WEF). The foundation announced the recipients of its 2024 Fall Grant, awarding a total of $12,537 to support projects ranging from student wellness programs to hands-on learning opportunities.
The grants aim to foster innovation, engagement, and enrichment, benefiting students at all grade levels while strengthening the school community.
Celebrating Sportsmanship and Literacy
Several programs this year emphasize community spirit and academic development.
- “We are the Ville” Sportsmanship Awards – A district-wide initiative led by Becca Yanni, Charlie Boss, and Kyle Lewis received $800 to support the recognition of student-athletes who exemplify outstanding sportsmanship during fall sports.
- Summer Literacy Project at Mark Twain Elementary – Susan Kaul secured a $2,000 grant to provide books that encourage summer reading and improve literacy retention.
These projects foster teamwork, character, and the importance of lifelong learning.
STEM Clubs, Creativity, and Artistic Expression
Students will have greater opportunities to explore science, technology, and the arts thanks to several funded proposals:
- McVay Makers STEM Club – Scotti Smith of McVay Elementary was awarded $500 to purchase 3D pens, enabling students to design, create, and innovate with hands-on STEM projects.
- Student Recording Studio at Genoa Middle School – Drew Farrell, Kristi Shaffer-May, Doug Hildreth, and Alyse Hancock-Phillips received $802 to establish a recording studio where students can produce music and podcasts.
- Arts Alive Festival – Westerville Central High School staff Jennifer Kiko, Ali Deck, Jo Yarano, and Derrick Ehlen secured $2,000 for the annual festival that celebrates the arts, creativity, and student talent.
- Podcasting Program at Westerville South – Brandi Young received $489 to launch a podcasting initiative, encouraging students to develop communication and technical skills.
Hands-On Learning Through Nature and Culinary Arts
The foundation is supporting projects that promote sensory learning and real-world skills:
- Sensory Exploration Through Nature at Fouse Elementary – Teachers Katie O’Leary, Jennifer Seevers, and Sarah Sharpes were awarded $685 for indoor gardening kits, ocean-themed play areas, and sensory-friendly books.
- Culinary Club at Westerville Central – Jody Christy received $300 to support the club, providing students with opportunities to develop culinary skills and explore careers in the food industry.
- Life Skills Materials at Westerville South – Heather Kabler was granted $241 to provide communication learning materials that empower students in Life Skills classrooms.
Encouraging Wellness and Literacy for All Students
Programs promoting physical activity, critical thinking, and cultural enrichment were also funded:
- Hawthorne Elementary Walking Club – Nikki Kilbane and Becky Limes secured $1,000 for the school’s Mileage Club, encouraging students to stay active through structured walking activities.
- Board Games in Science Classes at Blendon Middle School – Angie Crego received $250 to incorporate board games that enhance critical thinking skills during science lessons.
- African-American Read-In Event – Lee Rutherford and Tre Rieves from Blendon Middle School received the largest grant, $3,800, to support the district’s annual African-American Read-In, celebrating diverse voices in literature.
Source: Westerville City Schools; Image by bridgesward from Pixabay
