West Geauga Local Schools, in its continuing effort to provide essential and sustainable opportunities for the children in our community, has pursued and is pleased to have been awarded two grants from the Fairmount Minerals Foundation of Chardon.
A grant, proposed by West Geauga High School teachers Natalie Cooper and Brian Spotts, has been awarded to the West Geauga Science Department Robotics Club in the amount of $2,100 for robotics equipment. Robotics is the premier example of the marriage of science and technology, especially as related to the solving of problems or human needs. Every investigation students conduct with the robot is motivated by the need to advance the performance of the robot in order to meet performance criteria, connecting the “need to know” with the “ability to do”. One of the strongest features of using robotics to teach math, science, engineering, technology and communications is its ability to make links between multiple disciplines. Students are able to take what they know and connect it to what they are learning, synthesizing new knowledge as they continue.
Fairmount Minerals Foundation has awarded a second grant to Lindsey and Westwood Elementary in the amount of $67,000 for iPads serving grades K-5 and special education in all core subject areas. Teachers will be able to use the iPads to supplement their lesson plans in multiple ways from language and math to science and social studies. This grant will also allow students expanded learning opportunities in an environment that will support and encourage their efforts to improve their academic achievement. The proposal was prepared by Westwood Principal Denise Brewster, teacher Angela Wyatt and Board member Michael Kilroy. Ultimately, the iPads will benefit all who have been immersed in the digital world!
The West Geauga Local School District is grateful to Fairmount Minerals in helping to pave the way for a bright, prosperous future for our students and our community. Westwood Elementary School Principal, Denise Brewster, stated that, “Our staff and students are so excited to receive these iPads from the generous funding from Fairmount Minerals! The instructional opportunities are limitless!”