Valley Stream UFSD Thirteen Interschool Council of PTAs is proud to announce the recipients of the 2024-2025 Mini-Grants. The Mini-Grants program aims to fund innovative educational projects that enhance learning and foster creativity across the district’s schools.
The following educators have been awarded grants for their inspiring projects:
Johanna Land – James A. Dever School
Makey Makey: Creating Musical Instruments through Technology
Johanna Land’s project introduces students to Makey Makey, a circuit board that plugs into a computer and acts as a keyboard. This hands-on tool allows students to build and create musical instruments, fostering improvisation, composition, and performance skills. This project encourages students to explore the intersection of technology and music.
Lisa Geary – Howell Road School
Nature’s Classroom: A STEM Adventure in Our National Parks
Lisa Geary’s initiative immerses students in the natural wonders of the United States’ national parks. Through STEAM activities, students will engage with engineering, design, and environmental science concepts, developing critical thinking skills while gaining a deeper appreciation for nature. The project aims to spark a lifelong love for the outdoors while enhancing students’ academic abilities.
Amy Yencharis – Wheeler Avenue School
Soundtrap for Education: A Digital Music Exploration
Amy Yencharis is bringing the power of music and technology to the classroom with Soundtrap for Education, an accessible digital platform that enables students to create, compose, and perform music. This program encourages creativity and self-expression across all subjects, ages, and ability levels, empowering students to explore sound recording and music production.
CaroleAnne Weik – Willow Road School
From Sketch to Structure – A Blueprint for the Future: Inspiring Young Architects with STEAM
CaroleAnne Weik’s project aims to ignite students’ passion for architecture and engineering. Through a comprehensive STEAM unit, students will explore architecture, design, and construction, incorporating hands-on activities and digital tools. This project, which expands beyond traditional lessons, inspires students to dream big about their future in design and construction.
“We are thrilled to see the creativity and innovation demonstrated by our educators,” said Dr. Judith LaRocca, Superintendent of Valley Stream UFSD Thirteen. “These projects reflect our commitment to providing students with rich, meaningful learning experiences that empower them to explore new ideas, think critically, and develop their unique talents.”
The Valley Stream Thirteen Council of Interschool PTA’s Mini-Grants program continues to play a vital role in supporting the district’s educators as they work to enhance the learning environment for all students. Congratulations to all the recipients, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact these projects will have on our students.
