The Girard School District Foundation awarded six innovative grants in 2021-2022. The grants are designed to encourage faculty to develop and implement projects which will enhance and enrich educational programs and be a direct benefit to our students.
Congratulations to the following faculty and staff:
PA Business Week, Ms. Antonella Spinelli (GHS)
PA Business week was piloted in 2019. The program was very successful and is now offered annually. Business Week is a week-long, in-school program that teaches students about the American Economic system. Teams of students run their own companies through a computer simulation for the equivalent of 12 business quarters. Guided by local business and education advisors, they make all of the management decisions dealing with product pricing, investing, marketing and production, research and development, and human resources. Simulating real-world business decision-making teaches students leadership, teamwork, time management, analytical thinking, problem solving, and people skills.
VEX Robotics Initiative, Mr. John Bochicchio (GHS)
The VEX Robotics Initiative exposes GHS students to robotics, computer programing, engineering, Artificial Intelligence, ethics, business and hands-on applications of math, science, electronics and circuit building. Students build robots for, and participate in, regional competitions. Involvement in these competitions allow them to experience why soft skills, such as working in teams and presenting professional presentations, are important. The VEX Robotic kits are also used in the STEM lab and Emerging Technologies and Introduction to Engineering courses.
K-4 Sound Exploration, Ms. Heather Yeager (EVES)
The EVES music room was amplified by the purchase of a new sound system. Over 600 students gained exposure to technology, high-end audio recordings and voice creativeness during their weekly music classes. They participated in a variety of activities targeting critical thinking skills, active listening skills, and their ability to identify different musical genres, composers, and instruments.
Coding Robots, Ms. Lori Buren (RAMS)
The purchase of 10 coding robots allowed approximately 240 RAMS students to explore the field of coding and robotics. Students learned to code robots to complete specific tasks. They were also able to program them to interact with their surroundings allowing students to see how different programs interact with each other. This exposure to coding will prepare students for future robotics classes offered at the high school level.
STeAm in the Outdoors, Mr. Scott Russell (GHS)
The GSD Foundation was happy to support the GHS Outdoor Adventure class by helping to offset costs. Students in this class use STEAM concepts while exploring local and regional outdoor resources. Activities include rock climbing, fishing, bike riding, snowshoeing, geocaching and much more. These field trips enhance student's creativity, resilience problem solving, and teamwork skills.
Bringing Our Creations to Life, Ms. Lori Buren (RAMS)
The purchase of Hummingbird Robotics kits benefited approximately 120 RAMS Technology Education students. They learned building and woodworking strategies by constructing protypes out of various materials. Students then learned how to code movement, sounds, and lights. Skills fostered from this exposure to coding, electronics, and construction will help prepare students for future robotics classes.
