Creating Classrooms for Everyone
Gifts to Local Classrooms Build Inclusive Learning Environments
If there is one thing Jonilynn Thompson knows, it’s that every kid learns in their own way. For the last 12 years, Ms. Thompson has taught preschool in the Springville Community School District. As many teachers do, she spent time this summer ensuring her classroom was set up to give all students the best learning experience possible.
“I follow a few teachers on social media to get new ideas for the classroom,” Joni said. “This summer I found some new ways to introduce sensory learning and create opportunities for exploration.”
Through another teacher, Joni learned about DonorsChoose.org. She could list her project on the site, and local donors could make gifts to cover the costs. Each August, the Community Foundation’s Fund for Educational Excellence matches gifts to Linn County public school classroom projects made through the platform, providing an additional $30,000 for projects like Joni’s.
With the funding, Joni was able to purchase items like LCD writing tablets, Play-Doh accessories, scented markers, and audiobook equipment. The supplies will allow the kids to see, hear, touch, and even smell as they learn letters and numbers.
“Some of the new items will help support different ways of learning in our writing center” Joni said. “Instead of just seeing the letters, now our kids can make them with Play-Doh, trace them in shaving cream, or practice writing on the LCD’s. We even got a button that lets us record letter sounds, and the kids love pushing that to practice letters.”
Since 2015
$285,000 in matching grants
$570,000 in total support for Linn County classrooms
1,128 classroom projects fully funded
If you are interested in supporting education with your charitable giving, there are several giving options to explore. Click here or contact the Community Foundation to learn how we can help you fulfill your charitable intentions.
If you are a teacher seeking funding for your classroom project, click here to learn more. The Community Foundation’s 1:1 match goes live on August 1st each year and is generally distributed by October.