Dec. 23: West Irondequoit Foundation announces 4 grants for 2022-23; 32-year total nearing $1.1 million
Above: At the WICSD Board meeting on December 15, 2022, West Irondequoit Foundation President Mrs. Donna DePeters presented the annual grant check to Superintendent, Dr. Aaron Johnson, and Board of Education President Mr. Matt Metras and Vice President Mr. Matt Sullivan.
The West Irondequoit Foundation, a non-profit organization that benefits West Irondequoit schools, has announced four grants it has funded for the 2022-23 school year. Grants must be initiated by teachers/staff; applications are voted on by the WIF Board of Directors. This year’s grant total is $13,206, increasing the amount awarded to the District since 1990 to $1,037,973. Established in 1987 to receive gifts/donations to enhance educational opportunities, the WIF raises money to underwrite grants for innovative projects, equipment and programs. The 2022-23 grants are:
Breakout EDU for Rogers Middle School: Breakout EDU are kits that create an engaging and empowering experience for students through problem solving and collaboration. Six kits are for all grade levels. Students have access to games and puzzles that promote critical thinking, problem solving, teamwork and collaboration. Gamification is the process of adding games or game-like elements to something (such as a task) to encourage participation. Research shows that gamification positively impacts student learning. Grant requestor: Maureen Elliott, teacher.
Breathe for Change 200-hour Wellness, SEL Facilitator and Yoga Teacher Training: This training is specifically designed for educators to use wellness, social emotional learning and yoga as vehicles for healing and social change. Trainees become empowered to use inclusive and trauma-informed practices within their instruction, as well as to design and facilitate workshops and professional development programs. The teacher will integrate these practices into teaching and coaching of other teachers at Iroquois and Rogers middle schools. Grant requestor: Colleen Atallah, TOSA.
Garden Club at Iroquois Middle School: This new extra-curricular club has taught students about plants and landscaping, while positively adding to the school environment and culture. Funds helped support start-up costs for supplies and materials. Grant requestors: Kristin Belknap, Behavior Support Specialist; Tami Graham, Speech Pathologist.
Strong Voices Project – Library Audit & Diversification: The grant will ensure library resources align with the district’s vision and mission and are maintained in a way that is culturally responsive to its student population. Libraries are welcoming spaces that encourage all students to read and explore. Grant requestors: Juli Westrich, Anna Bayerl, Jen Joyce, Chantel Raab & Kim Cristal.