Teachers of children with disabilities possess unique insights into effective teaching methods. However, financial limitations often hinder their ability to implement innovative projects that could profoundly enhance their students' educational experiences. Recognizing this challenge, the Special Education Foundation (SEF) has been stepping up since 2002 to bridge the gap where tax dollars fall short with the Classroom Innovation Grants program.

Elementary Math Specialist Amanda Wise of Litzsinger, used her grant funds to create the Exact Path Store. Exact Path is the online learning platform they use and when students successfully complete 45 minutes in both math and reading each week, they earn a treat from the store.

“Historically it has been a huge struggle to get the kids to engage with the lessons--lots of behaviors due to their social, emotional and behavioral needs, refusals, and general lack of willingness to engage,” said Wise.

“With this project, we’ve seen students complete over 1500 hours of online instruction and 4000 lessons. We’ve seen huge improvements not only in their behavior around the platform (no more refusals or behaviors!), but we also saw significant results on both district assessments and the MAP test. Thank you again for your generosity! It has changed the climate of our school in such a positive way. The kids LOVE it!

Speech-Language Pathologist Lori Guess of Northview used her grant to fund Let's Celebrate: School Wide Holiday Dance and Activities for Everyone!

“Our students have a need for activities that are accessible for all students, regardless of ability level, and provide some of the same activities general-education schools provide,” stated Guess. “We used the funds to purchase decorations, photo props, inflatables, snacks and drinks, and supplies for classrooms to participate in making decorations for the dances.  These items are utilized to create a memorable experience that our students may not get to experience as their non-disabled peers are able to do.”

“We have received so much positive feedback from staff and students about the dance.  The students loved the themes of the dances and the immersive experience to help enjoy the holiday event.  There were activities and snacks for every student to participate and enjoy.  It is wonderful to see all of our students get to experience an event that they will remember and would not have otherwise had any opportunity to enjoy a holiday event.”

Through the Classroom Innovation Grants program, SEF empowers teachers to bring their creative ideas to life, transforming classrooms and positively impacting students with disabilities. These grants provide financial support for innovative projects that inspire learning and foster independence. Beyond benefiting individual classrooms, these projects serve as models that can be replicated across other educational settings, amplifying their reach and impact.

SSD Educators can submit their applications by December 13, 2024, and take this opportunity to transform their creative visions into realities that enrich the lives of students with disabilities. For tips on creating a standout application, read the Helpful Hints for Applying to maximize the chances of being awarded a grant.