SAEF Approves Four Grant Requests

by Bruce Brown

Four grant requests were recently approved by the Stockbridge Area Educational Foundation in partnership with the school district. Each will enrich the school experience for Stockbridge area students. Optimistically moving forward with one’s mission is well and alive in Stockbridge even during uncertain times.

The Stockbridge Schools Choir Director, Carol Hatch, submitted a grant request to update the dress and tuxedo attire that choir members wear when performing. Ms. Hatch was proud to say that, “During the December Christmas Concert the choir looked and sounded very professional while entertaining approximately 450 parents and community members in our audience.” Still, concert attire requires yearly replacement and repair to look sharp and accommodate the variety of choir member sizes.

Spanish Teacher, Christine Villegas, requested a grant to purchase 3 Apple IPads along with protective covers, and a tripod. Ms. Villegas looks forward to using the devices to implement new language testing measures called Integrated Performance Assessments. Using an IPad allows Ms. Villegas to be more efficient when testing her students, and also allows students to review their work for self-assessment.

Kindergarten teacher, Any Taylor, requested a grant to improve her classroom dramatic play area. Ms. Taylor indicated she would, “Furnish an area with age appropriate furniture and toys so students will develop creatively while learning to share, take turns, and follow rules.” Classroom space limitations will require Ms. Taylor to review and possibly phase in her dramatic play area improvements.

Through the grant process the Foundation partnered with the Stockbridge Community News (SCN) to do a multi-page layout displaying the photos of the SHS Class of 2020. In her application the SCN Treasurer noted, “This should have been a time for the community to recognize the accomplishments of these young adults who have worked so hard throughout their school career. The SCN Board would like to honor the Class of 2020 by printing senior photos and listing the accomplishments of  each senior.”

The SHS Choir in Concert Attire