2020 Thiems Grant Highlights
Grants to support all elementary schools
Lights, Camera, Action- Green screen studios
The green screen studio is another resource to add to the elementary library hubs where students can collaborate and create. With support from the librarian, instructional coaches & classrooms teachers, students will use this technology move beyond the classroom to a virtual world where they can pursue topics and ideas from around the globe. $7,381.84
Rig-a-Ma-Jig- Building
Expanding upon a pilot program last year, this grant provides two more Rig-a-Ma-Jig building kits for librarians to share across the district. These kits build upon the engineering practices of the Next Generation Science Standards and allow students to work collaboratively to design and construct large-scale creations such a swings, race cars, and forts. $7,730
‘Pickin & Grinnin’
Building upon a previous grant, this will provide 2 additional sets of ukuleles for the elementary school music classrooms. The successful implementation of ukulele lessons for 5th graders, has encouraged the music teachers to expand their program to use ukuleles at lower grade levels and for extended periods throughout the school year. Students will learn music composition, note reading, listening and performing skills. $7,988
Calming spaces- Sensory regulation supports
Supporting student’s regulation and behavioral health needs is a priority for D205. This grant supports every elementary school to design a calming space and have effective tools to help students to regulate for increased focus on learning. $12,000 ($1,500 per school)
Creativity Tools in the Library Makerspaces
This grant provides a bank of 8 iPads with creativity apps for students to work collaboratively as teams to demonstrate their learning and teach their peers. These iPads will support coding and robotics tools; publish and create eBooks, multi-media videos and podcasts. Technology tools engage students in the learning process and provide authentic resources for students to reflect on their learning. $36,000
Grants to support all middle schools
#ICANHELP- Deleting online negativity
The objective of #ICANHELP is to educate and empower students and adults to use social media positively through a series of workshops. Learning how to interact appropriately online will contribute to collaborative communication & a feeling of safety for higher levels of creativity and innovation. $8,955
Sensory Supports- Calming spaces & tools
This grant will create a space for students to focus and return to their classroom ready to learn. The space will provide mental relaxation from environmental stressors, decrease aggressive behaviors, develop sensory exploration, encourage safe expression of emotions or frustration and promote social interactions with peers who may have similar struggles or feelings. $6,841.12
Root Robots- Teaching advanced coding
Root Robots will allow students to integrate more updated robotics with new functionality in the Creative Technology curriculum. This technology will help students learn sequential thinking, logical reasoning, creativity, critical thinking, problem solving skills and coding concepts. $6,777
Sewing Technology- Expanding our Toolbox
This grant will support the purchase the Cricut Maker and Easy Press Machines for all middle schools. The family & consumer science curriculum will be expanded to incorporate these new tools and allow students to expand their creativity and learn how to use additional forms of sewing technology. $4,683
Grants to support York High School
Virtual Reality- Using to develop empathy and understanding
This grant expands on the implementation of the Oculus Quest virtual reality devises to fully expand the program. Virtual reality is an immersive experience and increases student engagement. Acquiring knowledge in this format permits students to think in more complex ways. $4,262
Increase Self-Regulation- Tools for Enhancing Student Engagement
Additional materials and equipment for two designated calming spaces will promote self-regulation, increase social-emotional well-being, reduce anxiety, promote self-advocacy and increase engagement for students. Supporting students social emotional needs throughout the day is a key component to their overall success in school. $3,641.43
Demonstration Displays- Learning in the Manufacturing Lab
The use of demonstration displays in the Manufacturing Lab will allow students to view important demonstrations on equipment use, procedures and technique. The instructors can also focus on small parts and details important to mastering the equipment. $3,500
Occulus Rift S- Advancing Computer Programming
This grant gives students the opportunity to expand their coding experience by allowing them to design virtual worlds and experiences. Students will author their own virtual reality content to consume and share with others. $1,808.44
