Teacher Grants
The foundation funds a variety of teacher grants for Minnetonka classrooms. Grant requests should have a direct curricular tie, be innovative, or creatively add to student experiences. Average grant awards are between $100 and $3,500. Please contact the Foundation with any questions or to see if your grant idea fits within foundation's funding priorities.
- Teacher Grant applications are due on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, at 12 noon.
- Teachers are notified of grant funding in early April, after Foundation and School Board approval.
- Teacher Grants are announced publicly in mid-April.
Thanks to the generosity of our Dream Makers supporters and in partnership with the Minnetonka Alumni Association, the Minnetonka Public Schools Foundation funded 49 teacher grants totaling $136,150 for the 2026/27 school year.
Over the past 25 years the Foundation, with the support of donors and partners, has awarded over 1,080 grants totaling $1,808,539.
Thank you to our teachers for your innovation, dedication, and commitment to creating extraordinary learning experiences for Minnetonka students.
Teacher Grant Archive
- 2026-2027
- 2025-2026
- 2024-2025
- 2023-2024
- 2022-2023
- 2021-2022
- 2020-2021
- 2019-2020
- 2018-2019
- 2017-2018
- 2016-2017
- 2015-2016
- 2014-2015
- 2013-2014
- 2012-2013
- 2011-2012
- 2010-2011
- 2009-2010
- 2008-2009
- 2007-2008
- 2006-2007
2026-2027
Overall Summary
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Total number of grants: 49
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Total dollars awarded: $136,150.41
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Focus areas:
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Literacy and library resources
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STEM, engineering, robotics, and science education
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Technology integration and digital learning
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Social-emotional learning and student well-being
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Fine arts, music, photography, and visual arts
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Career and technical education
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Mathematics enrichment
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Physical education, recreation, and wellness
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Language immersion and cultural learning
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Collaborative and project-based learning
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Student leadership and communication
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Special education and sensory supports
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Environmental and garden-based learning
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Summary by School
| School | Number of Grants | Total Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Multi-School | 5 | $37,259.74 |
| Clear Springs Elementary School | 2 | $4,394.08 |
| Deephaven Elementary School | 1 | $1,029.00 |
| Excelsior Elementary School | 3 | $4,158.00 |
| Groveland Elementary School | 1 | $1,311.00 |
| Minnetonka Community Education Center | 2 | $5,100.00 |
| Minnetonka High School | 12 | $26,281.03 |
| Minnetonka Middle School East | 9 | $18,906.94 |
| Minnetonka Middle School West | 4 | $21,343.20 |
| Minnewashta Elementary School | 2 | $3,533.69 |
| Scenic Heights Elementary School | 8 | $12,833.73 |
Multi-School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | 2–3 sentence summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Commissioned Song for the Tonka District Children's Choirs | Seth Boyd | Funding will commission a new choral composition to celebrate the choir program’s 20th anniversary. The work will premiere at a district concert and provide a unique musical experience for students. | $3,500.00 |
| 4 | Digital Literacy Access Initiative: eBooks and Read-Alouds | Kelli Whiteside | The project expands access to curriculum-aligned eBooks and digital read-aloud resources. It supports literacy development, accessibility, and equitable access to grade-level texts for all learners. | $12,000.00 |
| 5 | Upgrading ClassVR – Phase II: Expanding Immersive Learning for K–8 | Rachel Studnicka | This grant completes upgrades to districtwide ClassVR kits serving K–8 students. Updated headsets will provide reliable immersive learning experiences across multiple subject areas. | $18,100.00 |
| 6 | Purposeful People/Character Strong and Social Thinking for Elementary | Colleen Batz | Funding will add SEL-related books in multiple languages to school library collections. The resources will support social-emotional instruction and improve equitable access across schools. | $889.54 |
| 7 | Enhancing Advanced Learning STEM Creativity and Engineering Studies | Suzanne Cutshall | Turing Tumble sets will strengthen engineering and creativity units in grades 2 and 3. Students will engage in hands-on systems thinking and mechanical engineering challenges. | $2,770.20 |
Clear Springs Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | 2–3 sentence summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9 | Game-Based Learning for Addition and Subtraction Fluency | Benjamin Eller | Additional fluency kits will provide more students with access to strategy-based math games. The resources are designed to build number sense, confidence, and foundational math skills. | $1,635.00 |
| 11 | Handheld Microscopes for All | Kendria Chowdhury | The grant funds 90 handheld microscopes for schoolwide science instruction. Students from kindergarten through fifth grade will gain hands-on opportunities to explore scientific concepts. | $2,759.08 |
Deephaven Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | 2–3 sentence summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12 | White Erase Worktable | Susan Owens | This mobile write-and-wipe table promotes collaborative learning and flexible classroom configurations. Students can engage in brainstorming, problem-solving, and small-group instruction with immediate feedback. | $1,029.00 |
Excelsior Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | 2–3 sentence summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 13 | Hands-On Music Making for Every Excelsior Elementary Student | Kathryn Bennett | Funding will replace and expand shared music classroom instruments. The project supports equitable access to hands-on music experiences that foster creativity and collaboration. | $3,000.00 |
| 20 | Integrating Technology, Science Enrichment, and Cultural Learning in the 2nd Grade Chinese Classroom | Jieming Jin | Cultural learning materials will support the integration of science, technology, and Chinese language instruction. Students will benefit from enriched hands-on and culturally immersive learning experiences. | $158.00 |
| 79 | Chinese Immersion Library Books | Jennifer Smasal and Erin Carcamo | The grant will fund approximately 75 Chinese-language picture books. The collection will expand access to both fiction and nonfiction titles representing Chinese heritage and contemporary topics. | $1,000.00 |
Groveland Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | 2–3 sentence summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 36 | Students Lead Announcements that Create a School of Belonging and Excellence | Sarah Klitzke / Lynn Winkleman / Andrew Gilbertson | Funding will provide dedicated equipment for livestreamed student-led announcements. The program strengthens leadership, school connection, and student ownership of the school community. | $1,311.00 |
Minnewashta Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | 2–3 sentence summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 38 | Clay Lab 2.0 | Melanie Mozingo | Advanced ceramics tools will expand design and pottery opportunities for students. Learners will develop creativity, fine motor skills, and problem-solving through hands-on projects. | $1,449.60 |
| 39 | From Regulation to Recreation: Building a Foundation for Student Success | Cassidy Rozek | Funding will create a sensory and motor room that supports self-regulation and learning readiness. The space will provide targeted supports for students with diverse needs. | $2,084.09 |
Scenic Heights Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | 2–3 sentence summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 23 | Handmade Chinese Card Game Supplies | Xuechen Wang | Materials will be used to create durable Chinese-language learning card games. The resources support vocabulary development and student engagement. | $650.00 |
| 25 | Shapes, Dice, and Games | Ali Wachutka | Additional math games and manipulatives will expand hands-on mathematics learning opportunities. Students will engage with concepts through interactive play and exploration. | $500.00 |
| 26 | Chinese Immersion Library Books | Lizabeth Ortiz-Perez | Funding will add approximately 75 Chinese-language picture books to the collection. The new titles will broaden literacy and cultural learning opportunities. | $1,000.00 |
| 27 | Chinese Books | Xuechen Wang | The grant supports the purchase of additional Chinese-language books, including graphic novels and comics. Students will gain access to more engaging and diverse reading materials. | $2,000.00 |
| 30 | Math Blasts from the Past | Jill Browning | A math-focused book series will help advanced learners explore complex mathematical concepts. The materials are designed to encourage curiosity and deeper mathematical thinking. | $151.70 |
| 31 | Spotlight on Learning | Jill Browning | Individual spotlights will provide a quick way for students to respond during whole-group instruction. Teachers can efficiently assess understanding and participation. | $127.94 |
| 32 | Creating Sensory-Smart Kindergarten Classrooms | Amber Quinn | Sensory tools will help students develop foundational neurological systems that support learning readiness. The project aims to improve both academic and behavioral outcomes. | $1,231.24 |
| 33 | Designing Calm: Reimagining Spaces for Student Well-Being | Liz Warden | Counselor and social worker spaces will be redesigned to better support emotional regulation and mental health. The updated environments will promote calm, comfort, and student well-being. | $7,172.85 |
Minnetonka Middle School East
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | 2–3 sentence summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 40 | Empowering Student Voice Through Authentic Media Production in Chinese Immersion Language Arts | Qingling Mendenhall | Wireless microphones will support student-created recordings and media projects. The tools encourage authentic language use, creativity, and collaboration. | $486.00 |
| 42 | The Fairway Fund | Stacie Olson | Disc golf equipment will introduce an inclusive recreational activity into physical education. The program promotes outdoor movement and lifelong fitness participation. | $2,599.00 |
| 43 | Growing Science | Michelle Brunik | A hydroponic system will serve as a living laboratory for science instruction. Students will investigate plant growth, photosynthesis, and experimental design through hands-on learning. | $2,500.00 |
| 44 | VolleybALL for ALL | Kieran Monaghan | Modified volleyballs will make the sport more accessible to students of varying ages and abilities. The equipment supports inclusive participation in physical education. | $1,590.00 |
| 45 | Sun lamps for middle school well-being. | Michelle Makres | Sun lamp stations will support student alertness, focus, and emotional well-being in windowless classrooms. The project aims to create conditions that better support learning readiness. | $1,500.00 |
| 47 | Catch the Spirit - Ultimate Frisbee at MME! | Susan Wolfe | Funding will provide ultimate frisbee equipment for physical education classes. Students will gain access to instruction in a growing and engaging sport. | $331.94 |
| 48 | Focus Glasses: Increasing Cognitive Load Capacity through Visual Field Limitation | Nicholas Ritchey | Focus glasses help reduce peripheral distractions and sensory overload during independent work. The tools support sustained attention and academic productivity. | $350.00 |
| 51 | Turning Opportunities at MME | Brenda Walther | Three wood lathes and safety equipment will expand woodshop opportunities. Students will apply design, engineering, and craftsmanship skills through woodturning projects. | $8,750.00 |
| 53 | Small Hands, Big Skills: Right-Sized Tools for Middle School | Brenda Walther | Lightweight power tools designed for smaller hands will improve safety and success in woodworking classes. Students will have access to equipment better suited to their developmental needs. | $800.00 |
Minnetonka Middle School West
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | 2–3 sentence summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 56 | MMW PE Outdoor Recreation Grant | Mary Schafer | Outdoor recreation equipment will expand opportunities for inclusive physical activity. Students will develop teamwork, coordination, and lifelong recreation skills. | $1,741.20 |
| 58 | Lego Robotics for multi-grade classes | Dan Chies | New robotics kits will continue modernization of the robotics program. Students across grade levels will have access to updated engineering and programming experiences. | $17,250.00 |
| 59 | Bringing Learning into Focus | Demi Berg | Strategy-based board games will strengthen critical thinking, collaboration, and spatial reasoning. The games will support structured learning stations and enrichment activities. | $577.00 |
| 62 | Press, Play, Create: Promoting Student Voice & Choice with Gelli Printmaking | Emily Sawgel | Gel plate printmaking supplies will provide students with an engaging and accessible artmaking process. Learners will explore creative techniques while producing multiple original works. | $1,775.00 |
Minnetonka High School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | 2–3 sentence summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 64 | Enhancing Hands-on Fashion Education | Kaylee Wiens | Additional mini dress forms will allow students to work in smaller groups during fashion design projects. The equipment supports creativity and more individualized learning experiences. | $2,250.00 |
| 65 | Advancer Kiln Shelves | Meg Koenitzer | Durable lightweight kiln shelves will improve ceramics instruction and equipment longevity. Students will gain greater opportunities for hands-on kiln operation and learning. | $2,500.00 |
| 66 | Benchtop Metal Shear | Steve Nugent | Funding replaces a broken sheet metal cutter used in jewelry and art classes. The equipment supports continued instruction in metalworking and design. | $1,700.00 |
| 67 | Lighting Equipment and Tripods for the Photography Classes | Rebecca Marks | Professional photography equipment will help students learn studio lighting and camera support techniques. The resources strengthen real-world applications in photography and video courses. | $735.78 |
| 68 | Culinary 1 and 2 Labs | Elizabeth Scott | The grant provides updated lab tools for culinary classes. Students will benefit from improved safety, increased practice opportunities, and stronger skill development. | $2,500.00 |
| 69 | Student Production Confidence Monitor | Andy Smith | A portable production monitor will help students evaluate recordings more effectively during video projects. The equipment enhances visual learning and production quality. | $1,400.00 |
| 71 | iPad Suction Holders for Collaboration | Ben Whitcomb | iPad holders will improve visibility of instructional content during collaborative problem-solving activities. The project supports engagement and classroom participation. | $610.85 |
| 72 | English Class Document Cameras | Sean Kern | Document cameras will enhance text-based instruction in English classrooms. Teachers will be able to share and analyze materials more effectively with students. | $420.00 |
| 73 | Expanding Thinking Math Classroom Whiteboards | James Donald | Additional whiteboards will support collaborative mathematical thinking and inquiry. Students will engage more actively in problem-solving and discussion-based learning. | $5,965.00 |
| 74 | Exercise Science supplies | Stephanie Nelson | New equipment will streamline data collection in exercise science and anatomy courses. Students will gain more effective opportunities to measure and analyze performance. | $1,881.00 |
| 75 | Indestructible Tracks for Sensor Carts | Bhuvana Nandakumar | New tracks will expand physics lab capabilities when paired with existing sensor carts. Students will collect accurate motion data and connect observations to scientific principles. | $3,068.65 |
| 76 | Wacom Tablet Grant | Daniel Murphy | Five drawing tablets will provide reliable access to industry-standard digital art tools. The equipment will support approximately 90 students in digital drawing courses each year. | $3,249.75 |
Minnetonka Community Education Center
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | 2–3 sentence summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 77 | MCEC Garden Expansion | Jasmine Dixon | The project adds a preschool-friendly vine house and planters to the garden. The new features will encourage child-led exploration and participation in outdoor learning. | $3,200.00 |
| 78 | On the Go Emotional Regulation Kits | Samantha Miller | Portable emotional regulation kits will provide sensory tools, calming supports, and visual aids throughout the building. Staff will be able to respond quickly to students needing self-regulation support. | $1,900.00 |
2025-2026
2024-2025
Thanks to the generosity of our Dream Makers supporters, the foundation will be funding 50 teacher grants totaling $109,124 for the 2024-2025 school year.
Thank you teachers for your innovative and creative grant applications!
In addition, the foundation will be providing a Special One-Time $100,000 gift to the district to implement Decodable Readers across the district.
Thank you to our very generous donors that made this gift possible!
Thank You to the Minnetonka Alumni Association for supporting 8 Grants totaling $4,251.
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Summary
Total grants awarded: 50
Total funding awarded: $109,124
Focus areas include classroom instructional materials, STEM/engineering equipment, literacy and language immersion resources, arts and music enrichment, special education and accessibility supports, physical education and health, student engagement and community-building initiatives, and technology integration for learning.
Summary by School
- All Schools — 3 grants — $8,457
- Clear Springs Elementary School — 3 grants — $8,644
- Deephaven Elementary School — 3 grants — $3,218
- Excelsior Elementary School — 4 grants — $3,576
- Excelsior & Scenic Heights — 3 grants — $4,550
- Groveland Elementary School — 4 grants — $9,759
- Minnewashta Elementary School — 1 grant — $256
- Scenic Heights Elementary School — 2 grants — $1,100
- Tonka Online — 2 grants — $3,325
- Minnetonka Middle School East — 5 grants — $6,576
- Middle Schools East & West — 2 grants — $9,390
- Minnetonka Middle School West — 3 grants — $2,343
- Minnetonka High School — 15 grants — $47,930
All Schools
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | Minnetonka Community Resource Night Grant | Anna Bjork | Funds an annual community event supporting EL and underserved families with meals, resources, and family engagement materials. Supports district-wide connection and access to services. | $1,200 |
| #2 | Core Boards for Universal Use | Kari Underwood & Heidi Hueffmeier | Installs communication core boards across district spaces to support nonverbal students, English learners, and those with communication barriers. Enhances accessibility and belonging. | $6,957 |
| #7 | Seniors Serve 2025 | Sarah Johnson | Supports a large-scale senior service initiative connecting graduating students with community volunteer opportunities. Strengthens civic engagement and service learning. | $300 |
Clear Springs Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #3 | GPS Units | Haley Reiser & 3rd Grade Team | Provides classroom GPS devices to support hands-on geography and outdoor learning activities in 3rd grade. Encourages experiential STEM learning. | $5,200 |
| #5 | Proyecto Comelibros | Rachel Chase | Builds Spanish immersion classroom libraries to support authentic reading experiences and student engagement in literacy. Strengthens bilingual learning. | $1,900 |
| #6 | Sonor SMART Series Xylophones | Jennifer Kimball | Expands classroom percussion instruments to increase student access to hands-on music learning across grade levels and ensembles. Enhances music education participation. | $1,544 |
Deephaven Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #8 | Tools for Language Arts and Math Centers | Jenny Gaard | Creates hands-on literacy and math centers to improve engagement, fine motor skills, and independent learning. Supports early academic development. | $250 |
| #9 | Flexible Seating | Karen Clepper | Provides flexible seating options to increase student focus, collaboration, and physical engagement in learning environments. Supports active classroom design. | $900 |
| #10 | Scooters, Scooters, Scooters! | Samantha Bauchle | Replaces and expands PE scooter equipment to support physical education participation and safe movement activities. Addresses equipment shortages. | $2,068 |
Excelsior Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #12 & #17 | Chinese Reading & Writing Center + Math/Team Building | Jieming Jin & Xian He | Enhances Chinese immersion and math instruction through interactive centers, storytelling, and team-based learning activities. Strengthens engagement and academic growth. | $450 |
| #13 | Book Club Books Expansion | Kelly Fisher & Lisa Myer | Expands classroom novel sets to support guided reading groups and student choice in literature. Builds a stronger literacy community. | $2,500 |
| #14 | 1, 2, 3 Math is for me | Mark Broten | Provides grid whiteboards to help students align math work and improve place value accuracy. Supports foundational math skills. | $236 |
| #15 | Mobilo Large Building Set | Shuang Caudill | Adds building sets for structured and unstructured learning in math and literacy centers. Encourages creativity and problem-solving. | $390 |
Excelsior & Scenic Heights Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #18 | Representing Native Stories | Ali Wachutka | Expands classroom libraries with Native American and Native Minnesotan-authored texts aligned to curriculum standards. Promotes cultural representation. | $1,900 |
| #19 | Belonging in School Initiative | Qingling Mendenhall | Implements research-based strategies to improve student belonging and engagement through structured instructional modules. Supports equity and inclusion. | $850 |
| #21 | Chinese Immersion Wordwall.net Pro | Ye Long | Provides digital tools for interactive learning games supporting vocabulary and math practice in immersion classrooms. Enhances engagement. | $1,800 |
Groveland Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #22 | Spanish Immersion Cultural Arts Grant | Jen Santamaria | Brings Hispanic artists into classrooms to teach culture through visual arts and dance. Strengthens immersion learning. | $4,945 |
| #23 | Innovative Seating for RSK | Katie Bowman | Provides adaptive seating to support independence and accessibility for students needing additional learning support. Improves classroom inclusion. | $770 |
| #24 | Fine Motor and Sensory Supports | Michelle Makres | Supplies sensory and fine motor toolkits for classrooms to support student developmental needs. Enhances accessibility and learning support. | $3,384 |
| #25 | Introduction to Drones | Peter Gausmann | Introduces coding and aviation concepts through classroom drone kits for upper elementary students. Expands STEM exposure. | $660 |
Minnewashta Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #27 | Spanish Book Club Books | Carolyn Suarez | Provides Spanish-language books to support reading groups and immersion literacy development. Encourages student discussion and engagement. | $256 |
Scenic Heights Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #31 | ArchChinese Proficiency Tool | Qingling Mendenhall | Supports Chinese language learning through a digital proficiency platform for immersive instruction. Enhances fluency development. | $100 |
| #32 | Chinese Traditional Music Performances | Yuan (Andy) Wang | Brings live traditional Chinese music performances tied to cultural festivals into the school community. Enhances cultural education. | $1,000 |
Tonka Online
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #33 & #34 | Tonka Online Toolkit & Artist Residency | Grace Mevissen & Tim Ketel | Provides digital tools, books, and virtual artist residencies to support K–5 online learners. Expands creative and academic enrichment. | $2,500 |
| #35 | Virtual Naturalist | Tim Ketel | Offers virtual environmental science programming led by a local naturalist for online students. Enhances science engagement. | $825 |
Minnetonka Middle School East
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #36 | Science iPad Magnifiers | Anna Schoeneberger | Adds iPad magnification tools to enhance hands-on Earth science exploration and field observation. Supports inquiry-based learning. | $1,760 |
| #37 | LabCam | Michelle Brunik | Enables microscope imaging and recording for student analysis of microorganisms in science labs. Strengthens biology instruction. | $289 |
| #38 | Dry Unit Literacy Extension | Nicole Berwanger | Integrates dystopian literature with research and persuasive writing on water scarcity issues. Builds critical thinking skills. | $1,300 |
| #39 | Future Trends in Physical Education | Stacie Olson | Expands PE curriculum to include modern fitness, technology integration, and holistic health approaches. Modernizes instruction. | $2,575 |
| #40 | Aqua Escape | Susan Wolfe | Enhances swimming curriculum with structured exploration and student-choice water activities. Improves engagement in PE. | $652 |
Minnetonka Middle Schools East & West
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #41 | Water Rocket Launcher | Charles Plumadore | Supports STEM learning through engineering, construction, and testing of water rocket systems. Encourages hands-on physics. | $1,390 |
| #42 | Lego Robotics Expansion | Dan Chies | Expands robotics kits for coding, engineering, and STEM coursework across grade levels. Enhances technical learning opportunities. | $8,000 |
Minnetonka Middle School West
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #43 | 7th Grade Microscopes | Beth Keskey (Beth Ahlgren) | Provides high-powered microscopes to support science instruction and student lab investigations. Strengthens hands-on learning. | $1,530 |
| #44 | Spanish Immersion Book Club Unit | Emma De Santiago | Supplies physical books for Spanish immersion reading groups to improve accessibility and engagement. Supports literacy development. | $513 |
| #45 | Best Buddies | Madeline St. Martin & Reilly Woodruff | Supports inclusive programming for students with disabilities through the Best Buddies organization. Strengthens school community inclusion. | $300 |
Minnetonka High School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #50 | Virtual Enterprise | Andrew Werner | Supports student-run business program with expanded enrollment and competition participation. Builds real-world business skills. | $5,000 |
| #51 | Robotics Tool Cart | Celeste Hill | Provides tool storage for robotics team equipment and organization. Improves program efficiency. | $500 |
| #52 | CTE Woodworking Teacher Support | David Kitzmann | Updates aging woodworking equipment to expand student access to hands-on manufacturing skills. Enhances CTE offerings. | $10,950 |
| #53 | Thinking Math Classroom | Heather Richins | Adds whiteboards to promote collaborative math problem-solving and engagement. Supports inquiry-based instruction. | $2,500 |
| #54 | Photogates for Physics | Joe Cossette | Provides equipment for measuring velocity and motion in physics labs. Strengthens experimental learning. | $2,500 |
| #55 | Art Department Frames | Meg Koenitzer | Supplies frames for displaying student artwork in school galleries. Enhances visual arts presentation. | $1,000 |
| #57 | Photon 2 Chips | Nick Bahr | Updates computing course hardware to maintain curriculum alignment with university standards. Supports computer science education. | $800 |
| #58 | Digital Cameras | Rebecca Marks | Expands photography equipment to improve student-to-camera ratios in digital arts courses. Enhances hands-on learning. | $4,800 |
| #59 | Ceramics Olympic Kiln | Sarah Young | Replaces kiln equipment for ceramics courses to support studio art instruction. Upgrades arts infrastructure. | $13,535 |
| #60 | Snap Circuit Kits | Simon Skluzacek | Expands electrical engineering kits for hands-on physics and circuit experimentation. Increases lab engagement. | $1,700 |
| #61 | Reading Pen for Dyslexia | Stacey Edlavitch | Provides assistive technology for dyslexic students in reading support programs. Improves accessibility. | $400 |
| #62 | Community Builders | Stephanie Nelson | Supplies classroom games to build social connection among elective science students. Supports classroom culture. | $434 |
| #63 | Metal Shop Cordless Drills | Steve Nugent | Replaces outdated drill equipment for metal shop and tech education use. Improves safety and functionality. | $1,074 |
| #64 | Physics Demonstration Probes | Tom Tomashek | Provides probes for demonstrating electrical phenomena in physics courses. Enhances science instruction. | $237 |
| #66 | VANTAGE Inclusion Expansion | Roger Andre | Supports students needing assistance with professional clothing for workplace readiness programs. Promotes equity in career pathways. | $2,500 |
2023-2024
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Summary
Total number of grants: 48
Total dollars awarded: $94,181
Focus Areas
-
Literacy & reading engagement (leveled texts, book clubs, multilingual supports)
-
STEM, coding & technology (robotics, software, calculators, drones)
-
Arts & music education (instruments, studio tools, choir materials)
-
Social-emotional learning & inclusion (belonging, accessibility, disability supports)
-
Language immersion & multilingual learning (Spanish, Chinese, ASL, bilingual resources)
-
Outdoor & experiential learning (nature-based learning, snowshoeing, golf, field exploration)
-
Classroom environment & engagement (flexible seating, furniture, sensory supports)
-
Community engagement & enrichment programs
Summary by School
- Early Childhood & Family Education (MCEC): 3 grants — $6,996
- Clear Springs Elementary School: 3 grants — $5,680
- Deephaven Elementary School: 1 grant — $1,016
- Excelsior Elementary School: 4 grants — $8,359
- Groveland Elementary School: 2 grants — $2,210
- Minnewashta Elementary School: 3 grants — $2,660
- Scenic Heights Elementary School: 2 grants — $1,350
- Tonka Online: 1 grant — $1,125
- Multiple Elementary Schools: 1 grant — $2,115
- Minnetonka Middle School East (MME): 8 grants — $15,909
- Minnetonka Middle School West (MMW): 5 grants — $8,971
- Multiple Middle Schools: 1 grant — $5,780
- Minnetonka High School (MHS): 12 grants — $32,330
- Vantage Program: 1 grant — $2,550
- All Schools: 1 grant — $878
Early Childhood & Family Education
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 26 | Equitable access to the outdoors | Kendra Johnson | Supports a nature preschool program by providing rain suits so all students can fully participate in outdoor learning regardless of income. Expands equitable access to early childhood outdoor education experiences. | $830 |
| 27 | Preschool Bilingual/Spanish Books | Katie Bowman | Provides Spanish and bilingual books for a new immersion preschool option. Strengthens early language development and family engagement. | $766 |
| 28 | Learning Beautiful for Early Childhood | Rachel Studnicka | Introduces Montessori-inspired computational thinking materials for early learners. Builds foundational problem-solving skills through hands-on exploration. | $4,400 |
Clear Springs Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | DaVinci Hall Activity Center | Joan Larson | Creates a hands-on activity center for indoor recess and creative learning in daVinci Hall. Supports problem-solving and student engagement through design-based activities. | $1,000 |
| 4 | Leveled Reading Materials for First Grade Spanish | Ben Eller | Provides leveled Spanish reading materials for first graders. Improves differentiated literacy instruction and student reading growth. | $3,200 |
| 5 | Sonor SMART Series Xylophones | Jennifer Kimball | Supplies high-quality Orff instruments for music instruction and afterschool programs. Enhances access to performance-based music learning. | $1,480 |
Deephaven Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9 | Golfing for a Lifetime | Samantha Bauchle | Introduces students to golf through putting activities. Promotes lifelong physical activity and skill development. | $1,016 |
Excelsior Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 14 | Innovation and Design Project Supplies | Annie McGinn | Supplies materials for student invention and problem-solving projects. Supports hands-on inquiry across subjects. | $1,475 |
| 15 | Classroom Flexible Seating and Storage | Andrew Bauer | Provides flexible seating to improve student comfort and engagement. Supports active learning environments. | $1,784 |
| 16 | Book Club Books | Kelly Fisher | Replenishes and expands classroom literature sets for book clubs. Enhances reading engagement and choice. | $2,500 |
| 17 | Educational Coding and STEM Games | Liu, Hsin-Yi | Provides STEM games to teach coding and computational thinking. Encourages playful learning of technology concepts. | $2,000 |
Groveland Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20 | Noise-Canceling Headphones | Claiborne Day / Megan Hill | Provides headphones to reduce classroom noise distractions. Supports focus during reading and independent work. | $250 |
| 23 | 3rd Grade Snowshoe Exploration | Kristie Remick | Enables winter outdoor exploration using snowshoes. Connects students to Minnesota ecology and seasonal science learning. | $1,960 |
Minnewashta Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 45 | Ojibwe Unit Expansion | Carolyn Suarez | Enhances cultural learning through Ojibwe arts and history resources. Supports authentic Indigenous studies integration. | $360 |
| 47 | Math Enrichment Manipulatives | Jessica Rojas | Provides manipulatives for kindergarten math instruction. Strengthens hands-on foundational math learning. | $2,000 |
| 48 | Globes | Angela Meagher | Supplies classroom globes for science and geography instruction. Improves spatial and Earth science understanding. | $300 |
Scenic Heights Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 73 | Chinese Reading Materials | Ye Long | Expands Chinese immersion reading materials for enrichment. Supports language development and cultural literacy. | $850 |
| 74 | The Power of Diverse Books | Lisa Leland | Provides culturally diverse literature for young readers. Promotes representation and inclusive learning. | $500 |
Tonka Online
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 75 | Virtual Naturalist Experience | Tim Ketel | Connects students with a local naturalist through virtual lessons. Enhances science learning through immersive experiences. | $1,125 |
Multiple Elementary Schools
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | Multilingual Library | Jayna Rafferty | Provides multilingual books to support family literacy and native language development. Strengthens bilingual reading access across schools. | $2,115 |
Minnetonka Middle School East
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 49 | MME Morning Show | Ellie Savitz | Supports student-led daily broadcast with upgraded equipment. Builds communication and media production skills. | $860 |
| 55 | Swim Goggles Initiative | Susan Wolfe | Provides goggles for swimming instruction. Increases safety and confidence in PE. | $400 |
| 56 | Jump Rope Fitness Program | Susan Wolfe | Adds jump ropes for cardiovascular fitness activities. Expands physical education engagement options. | $630 |
| 57 | Period Supply Campaign | Michelle Brunik | Expands access to menstrual products for students. Supports health equity and attendance. | $2,000 |
| 58 | Ping Pong Tables | Stacie Olson | Supplies tables and equipment for PE activities. Enhances recreational physical education. | $2,050 |
| 59 | Graphing Calculators | Cindy McGlasson | Provides TI-84 calculator sets for Algebra instruction. Strengthens math learning tools. | $4,394 |
| 60 | Coding with Spheros | Gina Nelson | Introduces programmable robots for advanced learners. Builds coding and problem-solving skills. | $3,475 |
| 61 | Community Resource Night | Katie Klemme | Funds a large community resource fair. Connects families with essential services and support systems. | $1,500 |
Minnetonka Middle School West
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 65 | Spanish Board Games | Anika Hodel | Provides Spanish language learning games. Encourages collaborative and screen-free practice. | $353 |
| 67 | Coding with Spheros | Laura Frisbie | Supplies robotics tools for coding instruction. Enhances STEM and computational thinking. | $3,475 |
| 68 | Digital Pens for Creativity | Emily Swagel | Enables digital art creation using stylus tools. Supports student creativity and design work. | $859 |
| 71 | Independent Reading Books | Katelyn Schreder | Expands genre-based reading libraries. Encourages reading choice and engagement. | $1,691 |
| 72 | Dystopian Book Collection | Jennifer Furness | Adds popular dystopian literature to media center. Supports independent reading and curriculum alignment. | $1,000 |
Middle Schools
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 76 | MAST Enrichment Program | Diane Rundquist | Creates enrichment experiences during MAST periods. Expands student engagement and exploration. | $5,780 |
Minnetonka High School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 29 | CS Software | Nick Bahr | Provides coding collaboration software. Supports computer science instruction. | $1,000 |
| 31 | Best Buddies Program | Stacey Edlavitch | Funds inclusive student friendship events. Strengthens peer connection and inclusion. | $800 |
| 32 | Jewelry Buffers | Steve Nugent | Supplies equipment for jewelry program safety and quality. Enhances technical arts instruction. | $2,112 |
| 33 | MIG Welder | Steve Nugent | Provides welding equipment for metal sculpture and Momentum program. Expands hands-on technical training. | $3,882 |
| 34 | Art Critique Corner | Meg Koenitzer | Creates collaborative critique space in art classrooms. Supports advanced artistic feedback and discussion. | $2,808 |
| 35 | Digital Drawing Tablets | Sarah Young | Replaces outdated digital art hardware. Modernizes student design tools. | $5,840 |
| 36 | Virtual Enterprise Program | Andrew Werner | Supports student-run business simulation program. Builds entrepreneurship and business skills. | $2,500 |
| 37 | CIS Course Equipment | Nick Bahr | Funds hardware/software for computing systems course. Enhances applied computer science learning. | $2,500 |
| 38 | Recumbent Bike (Harbor) | Michelle Makres | Provides sensory-motor support equipment for Harbor program. Improves student regulation and engagement. | $550 |
| 41 | ASL Visual Learning Tools | Tracy Ivy | Improves accessibility for deaf and dyslexic learners using visual reinforcement tools. Expands inclusive communication methods. | $3,500 |
| 42 | Coding Drones | Dana Severson | Supplies programmable drones for physics instruction. Increases engagement in motion and forces concepts. | $2,800 |
| 43 | Choir Robes | Aaron Kohrs | Replaces outdated choir uniforms. Strengthens belonging and performance presentation. | $2,883 |
Vantage Program
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 44 | Vantage Inclusion Expansion | Roger Andre | Supports professional attire needs for underrepresented students. Promotes equity in program participation. | $2,550 |
All Schools
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | Wilson Reading Supplemental Materials | Bart Meath | Provides supplemental literacy tools across district schools. Strengthens Wilson Reading program instruction. | $878 |
2022-2023
$58,367 in Teacher Grants Awarded
The foundation proudly funded $58,367 in Teacher Grants for the 2022-23 school year with partnerships from the Minnetonka Alumnae Association and the Draayer Youth Citizenship Fund. These 41 unique grants provide innovative educational experiences to students in all 6 Elementary Schools, both East and West Middle Schools, Minnetonka High School, the VANTAGE Program, Tonka Online, and MCEC/Minnetonka Preschool/ECFE.
Summary
This report includes 41 teacher grants totaling $58,367.00.
Focus areas include early childhood social-emotional learning, literacy development (including Spanish and Chinese immersion programs), STEM and coding enrichment, arts and music resources, physical education and adaptive fitness, classroom technology integration, online learning support, and expanded access to diverse and inclusive instructional materials.
Summary by School
- Early Childhood & Family Education — 4 grants — $5,793
- Clear Springs Elementary School — 1 grant — $1,000
- Deephaven Elementary School — 3 grants — $5,901
- Excelsior Elementary School — 3 grants — $1,961
- Groveland Elementary School — 1 grant — $4,800
- Minnewashta Elementary School — 3 grants — $6,355
- Scenic Heights Elementary School — 1 grant — $275
- Tonka Online School — 3 grants — $2,168
- Multiple Elementary Schools — 4 grants — $6,093
- Minnetonka Middle School East — 6 grants — $7,425
- Minnetonka Middle School West — 4 grants — $3,954
- Minnetonka High School — 5 grants — $5,568
- Vantage Program — 1 grant — $2,100
- Multiple Elementary, Middle & High School — 2 grants — $4,974
Early Childhood & Family Education
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | Buddy Boxes | Laura Nystrom | Restocks buddy boxes used to support preschool social skill development through structured peer interaction materials. | $403 |
| 28 | Multi-Cultural Materials at MCEC | Maddie Schinke | Expands multicultural resources across early childhood classrooms to better reflect student and family diversity. | $3,000 |
| 45 | Preschool "SMART"s | Erin Michael | Supports school readiness through a research-based program designed to build foundational early learning skills. | $1,665 |
| 50 | Outdoor learning | Kendra Voigt | Supports outdoor preschool programming with nature-based materials aligned to outdoor curriculum goals. | $725 |
Clear Springs Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 16 | daVinci Hall | Joan Larson | Continues development of a collaborative learning space designed to enhance student engagement and creativity. | $1,000 |
Deephaven Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | Math Fact Tool Box | Becky Johnson | Provides hands-on tools and games to support varied approaches to math fact fluency and student engagement. | $673 |
| 15 | TODO Math App for first grade classes | Karen Clepper | Funds a math app to support early numeracy development and increase student engagement in foundational math skills. | $1,200 |
| 20 | Geodes Classroom Decodable Library | LeAnne Smith & Kristi Bruckschen | Expands decodable text resources aligned with structured literacy instruction for special education learners. | $4,028 |
Excelsior Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9 | Boosting Executive Function Skills! | Kristin Peterson | Provides tools to strengthen executive functioning skills including organization, focus, and self-regulation. | $1,081 |
| 33 | Math manipulative and Science materials | Ai Ai Lin Johnson | Supplies hands-on manipulatives and science materials for math and science concept development. | $380 |
| 38 | Reading and Writing Skill Enhancement in Navigator Chinese Class | Jieming Jin | Develops Chinese literacy activities and thematic units to strengthen reading and writing skills in immersion students. | $500 |
Groveland Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | Assessment-driven, Engaging Reading Materials for 3-5 Spanish Readers at Groveland | Erin Kopischke | Provides leveled Spanish reading materials aligned to assessment frameworks to support targeted literacy growth. | $4,800 |
Minnewashta Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 22 | Code with Cubelets | Shelly Traver | Introduces screen-free robotics tools to support STEM learning and computational thinking skills. | $4,589 |
| 41 | Clay Slab Roller | Melanie Mozingo | Provides clay slab roller and materials to enhance hands-on ceramics and art instruction. | $1,051 |
| 48 | Recording "phone" booths II | Daniela Moscoso-Donoso | Improves student audio recording quality and privacy for academic and presentation use. | $715 |
Scenic Heights Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 23 | Representation Matters in Classroom Libraries | Ali Wachutka | Enhances classroom library to include diverse representation through mirror and window texts. | $275 |
Tonka Online School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 32 | 4th Grade Tonka Online Curriculum Supplement | Tim Ketel | Provides supplemental materials to support online fourth-grade curriculum needs. | $168 |
| 37 | The Tonka Online Toolkit | Grace Mevissen | Supplies physical and digital tools to support engagement in K-5 online learning. | $1,000 |
| 31 | Streamable Learning: Enrichment Opportunities for Tonka Online | Tim Ketel | Provides access to live virtual enrichment experiences through museums and learning partners. | $1,000 |
Multiple Elementary Schools
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 52 | Sonor SMART Series Xylophones | Jennifer Kimball | Replaces aging music equipment to support elementary music instruction. | $1,480 |
| 17 | The Impact of Words | Jill Browning | Supports literacy and social-emotional learning through intentional word choice instruction. | $621 |
| 18 | Academic Extension (AE) Coding Extension - Turing Tumble | Lisa Dutton | Introduces mechanical computing systems to strengthen coding and logic skills. | $992 |
| 35 | Enhancing Content for Online Learners | Kelli Whiteside | Expands digital instructional materials for both online and in-person learning environments. | $3,000 |
Minnetonka Middle School East
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | State of (floor) Hockey | Stacie Olson | Provides safe floor hockey equipment to support PE curriculum and student participation. | $1,600 |
| 14 | Eclipse Ball Equipment | Kieran Monaghan | Introduces new PE activity equipment to expand student physical education offerings. | $420 |
| 27 | Choices Curriculum | Ginna Schultz | Supports global studies instruction with structured materials for analyzing complex world issues. | $1,555 |
| 36 | Intergenerational choral collaboration | Seth Boyd | Connects students with older adult choir members in collaborative musical performance and dialogue. | $2,500 |
| 40 | Headphones for Chinese Immersion Classroom | Ann Kubusek | Provides headphones to support listening comprehension in immersion language instruction. | $450 |
| 51 | American Visual History Timeline in Chinese | Ann Kubusek | Creates visual historical timeline resources in Chinese for immersion learning support. | $900 |
Minnetonka Middle School West
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | Woodshop Next-Gen Race Track | Dustin Michel | Replaces unsafe CO2 race track to maintain hands-on woodshop curriculum. | $1,595 |
| 29 | Meaning Through Memoirs | Clare Latterell | Expands memoir reading resources to support diverse perspectives and student engagement. | $1,000 |
| 46 | Portable Sound System | Carol Carlson | Provides portable audio system to support student performance and presentations. | $1,047 |
| 47 | Innovative Tools to Enhance Video Creation | Sara Hunt | Supports professional-quality video creation for instructional and student projects. | $312 |
Minnetonka High School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | CS Software for MHS | Nick Bahr | Provides collaborative coding software to support computer science instruction. | $1,000 |
| 6 | The National Parks: America's Best Idea DVD | Gwynneth Wacker | Uses documentary film to explore national parks and environmental history themes. | $215 |
| 13 | Urban Mapping | Quinn Montgomery | Supplies physical maps for studying urban geography and land use. | $317 |
| 25 | MHS Commons Art Gallery Frames | Jonathan Maki | Enables rotating student artwork displays in school gallery spaces. | $1,117 |
| 34 | High School Biology Electrophoresis System | James Finch | Supports hands-on genetics labs using electrophoresis equipment. | $2,919 |
Vantage Program
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 26 | VANTAGE Inclusion Expansion | Roger Andre | Supports professional readiness resources for students from underrepresented communities. | $2,100 |
Multiple Elementary, Middle & High School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 42 | Wheelie Fun | Kristin Goeser | Provides adapted bicycles to support physical activity access for students with disabilities. | $3,614 |
| 30 | Digital Word Wall — Chinese Vocabulary Fluency | Qingling Mendenhall | Supports Chinese vocabulary fluency through interactive digital learning tools and games. | $1,360 |
2021-2022
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Summary
This report includes 24 teacher grants totaling $43,425 in awarded funding.
Primary focus areas across grants include:
-
Social-emotional learning (SEL) and student well-being
-
Literacy and reading engagement
-
STEM, coding, engineering, and technology integration
-
Cultural competence and language immersion support
-
Arts, music, and creative expression
-
Physical education and health/wellness initiatives
-
Special education supports and accessibility tools
-
Classroom innovation and instructional materials
-
Library enrichment and diverse collections
Summary by School
- Early Childhood & Family Education — 4 grants — $2,473
- Deephaven Elementary School — 1 grant — $350
- Groveland Elementary School — 2 grants — $1,441
- Excelsior Elementary School — 4 grants — $1,596
- Scenic Heights Elementary School — 2 grants — $210
- Minnetonka Middle School East — 1 grant — $746
- Minnetonka Middle School West — 1 grant — $1,000
- Minnetonka High School — 2 grants — $1,076
- Multiple K–8 Schools — 6 grants — $29,533
- All Minnetonka Schools K–12 — 1 grant — $5,000
Early Childhood & Family Education (MCEC)
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Buddy Buckets for Junior Explorers | Sarah Hennes | Creates structured “buddy buckets” with toys and visual play plans to support peer interaction, social problem-solving, and imaginative play. Students use guided materials to strengthen communication and cooperative skills. | $525.00 |
| 2 | Social Thinking | Ashley Peterson | Provides the “We Thinkers!” curriculum to build executive functioning and social problem-solving skills. The program supports early development of emotional awareness, vocabulary, and relationship skills. | $498.00 |
| 3 | Promoting Diversity, Inclusion and Social Emotional Intelligence through Books | Lisa Zimmerman | Adds age-appropriate books that promote diversity, inclusion, and SEL competencies aligned with district initiatives. Materials support identity development and positive social interactions. | $700.00 |
| 4 | Little Spot in the MCEC Classroom | Sarah Davis | Implements “Little Spot” SEL curriculum to build self-awareness, empathy, and responsible decision-making. The program supports foundational emotional regulation and relationship skills in preschool learners. | $750.00 |
Deephaven Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Building Math Thinkers | Jennissa Schommer | Uses hands-on math manipulatives to help students explore measurement, patterns, and number relationships. Encourages problem-solving through tactile, interactive learning experiences. | $350.00 |
Groveland Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Hands On Language Arts | Kristie Remick | Provides hands-on literacy materials supporting phonemic awareness, vocabulary, and writing development. Enhances small group and independent learning opportunities. | $1,020.00 |
| 2 | Puppet Theater for Social Emotional Learning in Kindergarten | Tara Murphy | Supplies puppets and a puppet theater to support SEL instruction through imaginative play. Students practice emotional expression and social skills in a safe, guided environment. | $421.00 |
Excelsior Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Chinese Culture Enrichment for 2nd Grade Chinese Immersion Students | Jieming Jin | Expands Chinese immersion curriculum with cultural enrichment lessons aligned to “Chinese Treasure Chest” texts. Supports bilingual learning in both in-person and remote environments. | $750.00 |
| 2 | Special Education Social Skills Games | Kristen Spilane | Provides games to support social skills instruction for special education students. Reinforces turn-taking, cooperation, and peer interaction. | $200.00 |
| 3 | 2nd Grade Immersion Math Center | Xian He | Creates math centers to support differentiated instruction for diverse learners. Helps students engage in hands-on, leveled math practice. | $355.00 |
| 4 | Interactive Powerful and Purposeful Word Games Made Easy | Jing Zhao, Xian He, Jieming Jin | Funds Wordwall digital tools to create interactive learning activities across subjects and languages. Enhances engagement through customized games and assessments. | $291.00 |
Scenic Heights Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | building PLUS inventing PLUS creativity | Ali Wachutka | Introduces building blocks to support creativity, design thinking, and collaborative problem-solving. Students use materials to model inventions and explore STEM concepts. | $130.00 |
| 2 | Make Yourself Heard | Ali Wachutka | Provides mini microphones to improve audio capture and student confidence during presentations. Supports participation and communication skills. | $80.00 |
Minnetonka Middle School East
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Life Long Activities – Racquet Sports Edition | Stacie J. Olson | Introduces racquet sports to promote lifelong fitness habits and cardiovascular health. Encourages student engagement through active physical education. | $746.00 |
Minnetonka Middle School West
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Refreshing MMW 6th Grade Independent Reading Classroom Libraries | Margaret Ruffino, Rebecca Freeman, Harrison Schmidt, Katelyn Schreder, Jane Zins | Updates classroom libraries with new novels to increase student reading engagement. Supports reading motivation and literacy development through refreshed, diverse book selections. | $1,000.00 |
Minnetonka High School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Arduino Programming in Physics | Tom Tomashek | Introduces Arduino units to teach coding and data collection in AP Physics C. Supports hands-on learning of electrical circuits and programming concepts. | $476.00 |
| 2 | Quad Copters for Principles of Physics | Dana Severson | Provides quadcopters to engage students in motion and forces concepts through hands-on experimentation. Enhances understanding of physics through real-world application. | $600.00 |
Multiple K–8 Schools
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Learning through play with Osmo for Elementary DCD | Mary Gifford, Caitlin Williams | Uses Osmo technology to support hands-on learning for DCD students across elementary schools. Enhances engagement through interactive digital and tactile activities. | $1,076.00 |
| 2 | Three Minutes can make a Big Difference: Innovative Methods in Supporting Students’ – and Teacher’s Well-being | Qingling Mendenhall | Implements Calm Classroom strategies to support student and teacher well-being through short SEL exercises. Focuses on reducing stress and improving classroom readiness. | $550.00 |
| 3 | Recognition of Chinese Immersion Learners’ Academic Achievement | De Zhang, Xue Han | Recognizes achievement of Chinese immersion students and supports national honor program nominations. Promotes academic excellence and language development. | $408.00 |
| 4 | Culture as a Content in Chinese Immersion Education | De Zhang | Adds Chinese culture picture books to deepen cultural understanding in immersion programs. Strengthens integration of culture and language learning. | $1,799.00 |
| 5 | Middle Level – Tools for Connecting Virtual Learners to the Classroom | Sara Hunt | Provides tools to improve remote learning connection and classroom engagement. Supports hybrid learning and student belonging. | $1,700.00 |
| 6 | Minnetonka Schools Diverse Library Collections | Colleen Batz, Melinda Barry, K–8 Media Specialists | Expands diverse library collections across schools to better reflect student backgrounds. Strengthens representation and literacy engagement district-wide. | $24,000.00 |
Minnetonka Schools K–12
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Black History Month Speakers | Anelise Peterson | Brings guest speakers to support Black History Month programming across the district. Promotes belonging, cultural awareness, and student engagement. | $5,000.00 |
2020-2021
Summary
The 2020–2021 Minnetonka Teacher Grants program awarded 35 grants totaling $49,371 across all schools and programs.
Primary focus areas included:
-
Literacy and reading enrichment
-
Social-emotional learning (SEL) and student well-being
-
STEM, engineering, and inquiry-based science
-
Educational technology and digital learning tools
-
Arts, music, and creative expression
-
Physical education and lifelong wellness
-
Multilingual learning and cultural enrichment
-
Early childhood development and intervention supports
Summary by School
- Early Childhood & Family Education — 1 grant, $1,095
- Clear Springs Elementary School — 5 grants, $4,454
- Deephaven Elementary School — 3 grants, $2,800
- Excelsior Elementary School — 1 grant, $1,000
- Minnewashta Elementary School — 4 grants, $2,858
- Scenic Heights Elementary School — 6 grants, $3,740
- Minnetonka Middle School East — 2 grants, $1,400
- Minnetonka Middle School West — 2 grants, $1,699
- Minnetonka High School — 7 grants, $10,285
- Multiple K–8 Schools — 4 grants, $20,040
Early Childhood & Family Education
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Helping Students Find Their Path Toward Success in The Classroom | Erin Michael | This grant supports sensory pathways in early childhood programs to improve student regulation and readiness to learn. Research shows movement supports focus and engagement, helping all learners access instruction more effectively. | $1,095 |
Clear Springs Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | Authentic African Music Learning | David Davis | Students use authentic Gahu instruments to explore African music traditions and global cultural perspectives. The experience deepens cultural understanding through hands-on music learning. | $850 |
| 3 | Impulsivity Tool Kits | Amy Horning | Tool kits support students with impulsivity, attention, and organization challenges. The materials help improve self-regulation and classroom readiness. | $757 |
| 4 | I Can See Clearly Now | Joan Larson, Cindy Stevenson | A portable microscope projects images to a smart board so all students can observe microscopic detail. This enhances curiosity and scientific discovery through shared visual learning. | $420 |
| 5 | Learning to Code with Dash Robots | Andy Lundheim | Dash robots introduce students to coding concepts through interactive, play-based learning. The program strengthens computational thinking using iPads and apps. | $856 |
| 6 | LightSpeed Multimike System | Jennifer Kimball | Wireless microphones support classroom presentations and performances by allowing multiple speakers. Students gain confidence through improved voice amplification and rehearsal opportunities. | $1,571 |
Deephaven Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | Grade 3 Guided Math Resources (English and Spanish) | Stephanie Glaser | Provides guided math resources for English and Spanish instruction. Students engage in centers and games to strengthen math understanding. | $500 |
| 8 | Native Aquatic Studies Connecting Students to the Environment of Lake Minnetonka | Mike Borgendale | A classroom aquarium helps students study local aquatic ecosystems. Students learn ecology through direct observation of fish and plant life. | $1,630 |
| 9 | Fun with Math! | Jessica Rojas | Math games and activities make learning more engaging and accessible. Students build foundational skills through interactive practice. | $670 |
Excelsior Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | Art Therapy | Kelly Pederson, Julie Knight | Art therapy supports DCD students in developing communication, self-regulation, and fine motor skills. The program integrates structured creative expression with life skills development. | $1,000 |
Minnewashta Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 11 | Literacy Centers Enrichment | Judith D. Ortega | Literacy center materials support independent learning within the Senderos curriculum. Students strengthen reading and comprehension skills through structured centers. | $702 |
| 12 | Classic Starts Book Sets | Cathy Arriola | Abridged classic literature supports high-achieving readers and critical thinking. Students explore rich texts that expand genre exposure and comprehension. | $382 |
| 13 | Emergency Response Team Supplies | Diane Severin | Supplies such as CPR manikins and Heimlich vests support emergency preparedness training. Staff and students gain hands-on safety instruction. | $824 |
| 14 | Recording "phone" booths | Daniela Moscoso-Donoso | Recording booths allow students to create high-quality audio responses for learning tasks. The tool supports confidence and accessibility in speaking assessments. | $950 |
Scenic Heights Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 15 | Tactile & Auditory Coding! | Melinda Barry | Unruly Splats introduce coding through movement-based interactive technology. Students engage in interdisciplinary learning across math, science, and PE. | $2,000 |
| 16 | Shoot for Stars: Constellations | Ali Wachutka | A constellation board game teaches astronomy concepts through play. Students learn star patterns and categories in an engaging format. | $140 |
| 17 | Mentor Texts | Ali Wachutka | Mentor texts support teacher modeling of reading and writing skills. Students build understanding through guided literacy instruction. | $100 |
| 18 | Balance Buddies | Amy Altenburg | Balance equipment supports kindergarten focus, strength, and motor development. Students improve readiness for learning through physical regulation tools. | $500 |
| 19 | Newbery Book Sets | Jackie Hjelden | Award-winning literature builds comprehension and collaborative discussion skills. Students engage deeply with high-quality texts. | $280 |
| 20 | Promoting Student Well-being through Virtual Reality | Qingling Mendenhall | VR tools help students reduce stress and anxiety through immersive experiences. The program supports emotional regulation and well-being. | $720 |
Minnetonka Middle School East
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 21 | New Physical Education Trends 2020 | Stacie J. Olson | Introduces pickleball and updated PE equipment focused on lifelong fitness. Students develop healthy activity habits. | $1,100 |
| 22 | Shining a Light for All | Kimberly Smith | Expands classroom libraries with inclusive and representative literature. Students see diverse perspectives reflected in texts. | $300 |
Minnetonka Middle School West
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 23 | Enhancing Well-Being and Reducing Anxiety through VR Experiences in SEL Special Education | Mary Callahan | VR tools support students experiencing anxiety or emotional distress. The technology provides flexible calming interventions across school settings. | $1,000 |
| 24 | iPad Music Ensemble | Heidi Bunde | Students use iPads as musical instruments in ensemble performances. The program expands access to non-traditional music-making experiences. | $699 |
Minnetonka High School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 25 | STEM Based Theatrical Performances | Charlie Swanson | Students attend a STEM-themed musical about Marie Curie and engage in discussion afterward. The experience connects science content with the arts. | $2,500 |
| 26 | Navigating Program Experiential Learning Unit | Jenna Falconer | Students develop experiential learning projects based on personal challenges. Work culminates in community-facing “calls to action.” | $500 |
| 27 | Minnetonka Art Banners | Paul Olson | Student artwork is displayed on banners around campus to celebrate creativity. The project increases community visibility of student art. | $3,800 |
| 28 | MHS Counseling Office Redesign | Ann Kaste, Student Innovation Team | Students redesign the counseling office to create a more welcoming environment. The project improves comfort, accessibility, and student experience. | $1,200 |
| 29 | Optics Benches for Physics and Astronomy | Russ Durkee | Optics benches support hands-on physics and astronomy labs. Students conduct experiments aligned with modern science standards. | $1,000 |
| 30 | Human Genome and Ecology Documentaries | Gwynneth Wacker, MHS Biology Dept. | Documentary licenses support instruction in genetics and ecology. Students explore CRISPR technology and environmental systems. | $435 |
| 31 | Heat Vision for the Classroom with iOS Thermal Cameras | Joe Cossette | Thermal cameras allow students to visualize infrared energy. The tool enhances inquiry in physics and environmental science. | $850 |
District
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 32 | Class VR: Virtual Reality Making Learning Stick | Sara Hunt | District-wide VR system provides immersive learning experiences across subjects. Students engage with interactive simulations aligned to curriculum standards. | $15,090 |
| 33 | Bubble Wand Algebra Project | Cindy McGlasson, Jon Westmeyer | Students apply algebra to design 3D-printed bubble wands using Desmos. The project connects math modeling to real-world applications. | $975 |
| 34 | Highly engaged kinesthetic STEM activity sets for Chinese immersion classrooms | Xue Han | Kinesthetic STEM sets integrate movement with math learning in Chinese immersion programs. Students engage in interactive, hands-on problem solving. | $3,735 |
| 35 | Dominoes for the HUBS | Julia Antonsen | Domino sets support collaborative building and problem-solving activities. Students use hands-on play to reinforce creativity and teamwork. | $240 |
2019-2020
Summary
Total number of grants: 35
Total dollars awarded: $61,438
Focus areas:
-
Literacy and reading development
-
Social-emotional learning (SEL) and student well-being
-
STEM, engineering, and technology integration
-
Arts and music enrichment
-
Physical education and wellness
-
Language immersion and multilingual learning
-
Instructional innovation and classroom engagement
-
Student accessibility and intervention supports
Summary by School
- Early Childhood & Family Education — 1 grant, $2,500
- Deephaven Elementary School — 3 grants, $3,545
- Excelsior Elementary School — 2 grants, $4,410
- Groveland Elementary School — 1 grant, $1,001
- Minnewashta Elementary School — 3 grants, $5,360
- Scenic Heights Elementary School — 3 grants, $969
- Multiple Elementary Schools — 4 grants, $4,845
- Minnetonka Middle School East — 3 grants, $3,650
- Minnetonka Middle School West — 5 grants, $8,654
- Multiple K-8 Schools — 2 grants, $11,210
- Minnetonka High School — 8 grants, $15,294
Early Childhood & Family Education
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Supporting EL Students and Families | Christine Breen | Provides ESL-focused parent education and early identification testing for language needs. Strengthens kindergarten readiness and ensures appropriate student placement. | $2,500 |
Deephaven Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Keep Calm and Learn On | Jane Sladky Valley | Provides tools to help students regulate anxiety and emotions during the school day. Supports continued engagement in learning through calming strategies. | $260 |
| 2 | Library for Littles - Supporting Our Newest Readers | Kelli Whiteside | Expands emergent reading resources and classroom organization materials. Supports early literacy development aligned with K–3 instruction. | $785 |
| 3 | Fostering the LOVE of READING Together: Take Home Reading Club | Jennissa Schommer | Provides take-home books in English and Spanish to support family reading routines. Builds early literacy skills and home-school engagement. | $2,500 |
Excelsior Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | People Colors | Jayna Rafferty | Expands inclusive art supplies to better represent diverse student skin tones. Supports cultural inclusion and identity development. | $410 |
| 2 | Fit & Fun Playscapes - Indoor Large Motor Movement Tracks | Laura Nelson | Creates indoor movement pathways that integrate physical activity with academic reinforcement. Supports active learning and self-regulation. | $4,000 |
Groveland Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Make & Do: Connecting the Media Center to the HUB | Colleen Small | Expands maker-centered learning resources through books and design-focused materials. Encourages creativity and hands-on problem solving. | $1,001 |
Minnewashta Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Google Read and Write for Struggling Writers | Amanda Mattke | Provides assistive technology to support struggling writers and improve output. Enhances accessibility and independence in writing tasks. | $360 |
| 2 | Spanish Non-fiction Classroom Library | Daniela Moscoso-Donoso | Expands Spanish nonfiction texts connected to core curriculum areas. Supports language immersion and academic vocabulary growth. | $800 |
| 3 | Indoor Safari Jungle Gym | Sarah Becher | Adds indoor climbing and movement structures to support physical development. Encourages strength, coordination, and active engagement. | $4,200 |
Scenic Heights Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Teacher Tuesdays! | Jeannine Adair | Uses peer mentoring to support articulation practice for speech students. Builds communication skills and confidence. | $150 |
| 2 | Wilderness Wednesdays Gear and Equipment | Amy Altenburg | Provides outdoor learning equipment for year-round experiential education. Supports hands-on science and nature learning. | $250 |
| 3 | Readers With Character - SEL in the Classroom | Heidi Roehl | Implements structured SEL curriculum focused on character development. Reinforces emotional regulation and positive behavior. | $569 |
Multiple Elementary Schools
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Draw the Future with 3D Pens | Allison Wachutka | Introduces 3D pens for creative and engineering-based student projects. Promotes design thinking and innovation. | $450 |
| 2 | Remo West African Drums | Jennifer Kimball | Expands music instruction through additional percussion instruments. Supports rhythm, culture, and ensemble learning. | $1,195 |
| 3 | Elements of Arts for Centers for RSK/K | Heather Knigge | Creates exploratory art centers focused on elements of design. Encourages creativity and hands-on artistic learning. | $1,200 |
| 4 | Sensory & Fine Motor Supports: Tools for the Classroom | Alyssa Engdahl | Provides sensory and motor support tools for classroom use. Improves accessibility and student readiness. | $2,000 |
Minnetonka Middle School East
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Creating with a Crayon | Kimberly Smith | Uses digital crayons to support reading annotation and comprehension. Enhances engagement with text. | $750 |
| 2 | Headphones with Microphones for Spanish Immersion | Joel Newman | Provides audio tools to support language learning and speaking practice. Improves listening comprehension and assessment. | $900 |
| 3 | 21st Century PE at MME | Stacie Olson | Updates physical education equipment to support lifelong fitness skills. Promotes health and active learning. | $2,000 |
Minnetonka Middle School West
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Student Requested Materials for Intervention Class | Jennifer Furness | Provides requested reading materials to increase engagement and comprehension. Supports student-driven learning. | $250 |
| 2 | Enhancing Well-Being and Reducing Anxiety through VR Experiences | Paula Erbisch | Uses VR tools to support student mental health and stress reduction. Enhances counseling and SEL supports. | $1,434 |
| 3 | Dynamic Digital Design Unleashed | Andrea Pautler | Integrates digital drawing tools into art instruction. Enhances creative digital production skills. | $1,985 |
| 4 | Providing iPad Accessibility Support for Special Ed Students | Sara Hunt | Improves accessibility tools for special education learners. Supports independence and precision in learning tasks. | $1,985 |
| 5 | Using Apple Pencils to improve 3D Modeling and Design | Dustin Michel | Supports 3D modeling instruction using Apple Pencil tools. Strengthens engineering and design skills. | $3,000 |
Multiple K-8 Schools
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Hands-on Project-based Chinese Cultural Activities | Xue Han | Expands hands-on cultural learning in Chinese immersion programs. Builds communication and language fluency. | $2,000 |
| 2 | Augmented and Virtual Reality Headsets: Taking Learning Beyond the Classroom | Sara Hunt | Provides VR/AR tools across schools for immersive learning experiences. Enhances engagement and conceptual understanding. | $9,210 |
Minnetonka High School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Accessory Materials for YES! Vantage Greenhouse | Dawn Norton | Supports greenhouse-based environmental science and sustainability learning. Provides hands-on biology and ecology experiences. | $598 |
| 2 | Fractures Puzzles Models for Human Anatomy | Gwynneth Wacker | Uses models to explore bone fractures and biomechanics. Enhances applied anatomy understanding. | $847 |
| 3 | Virtual Reality in Math and Counseling | David Surver | Uses VR for math visualization and student stress reduction. Supports both academic and wellness applications. | $1,199 |
| 4 | Stem Based Theatrical Experiences | Charlie Swanson | Blends theater and science to explore radioactivity concepts. Encourages interdisciplinary learning. | $1,500 |
| 5 | iPad Pencils for Art | Jonathan Maki | Provides digital tools for creative arts and design work. Expands modern artistic capabilities. | $2,100 |
| 6 | Design for Learning | Nicole Snedden | Funds redesign of collaborative learning spaces. Supports student innovation and engagement. | $2,500 |
| 7 | Wireless Data Collection in Physics with Sensor Carts | Curtis Geldert | Enables real-time physics data collection and experimentation. Improves lab analysis and engagement. | $2,750 |
| 8 | Chemistry Inquiry | Sean Holmes | Expands inquiry-based chemistry investigations and data tools. Supports real-world scientific exploration. | $3,800 |
2018-2019
Summary
The 2018–2019 Minnetonka Teacher Grants program awarded 41 grants totaling $57,524 across all schools and district programs.
Grants supported instructional innovation in literacy and reading, STEM/engineering and hands-on science, mathematics instruction, social-emotional learning (SEL), physical education and movement, arts and music enrichment, cultural and global learning, technology integration, and special education supports.
Summary by School
- Early Childhood & Family Education — 1 grant — $327
- Clear Springs Elementary School — 4 grants — $4,874
- Deephaven Elementary School — 6 grants — $2,895
- Excelsior Elementary School — 2 grants — $5,500
- Groveland Elementary School — 1 grant — $1,000
- Minnewashta Elementary School — 2 grants — $2,665
- Scenic Heights Elementary School — 5 grants — $5,898
- Multiple Elementary Schools — 3 grants — $14,880
- Minnetonka Middle School East — 2 grants — $3,764
- Minnetonka Middle School West — 3 grants — $2,700
- Minnetonka High School — 6 grants — $7,262
- All Schools — 2 grants — $5,759
Early Childhood & Family Education
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Building Readers—Literacy Beginnings | Ann Ricketts | Families receive books and literacy materials throughout the year to strengthen early reading development at home. The program encourages parent-child engagement and foundational literacy skills. | $327 |
Clear Springs Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Take a Look at a Book | Joan Larson | Students apply architectural design concepts while learning discipline-specific vocabulary and problem-solving skills. The project emphasizes creativity and real-world application. | $400 |
| 2 | Two Countries – One Classroom | Delette Lemon | Students collaborate with peers in Ghana through shared learning projects and digital communication. The experience builds cultural awareness and global understanding. | $1,000 |
| 3 | Qball | Jaime Bolanos | A throwable microphone increases participation and engagement in classroom discussions. Students practice communication, listening, and speaking skills. | $1,074 |
| 4 | Calming Kindergarteners | Rachel Kehagias | Yoga-based strategies support emotional regulation, focus, and readiness to learn. The program strengthens social-emotional development in early learners. | $2,400 |
Deephaven Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Social and Emotional Learning Boost | Jennissa Schommer | SEL materials support emotional awareness, empathy, and positive relationships. Students develop long-term social skills and self-regulation strategies. | $128 |
| 2 | Reading Enrichment Materials | Jennissa Schommer | Hands-on reading tools build phonics, fluency, and sight word recognition. Students strengthen foundational literacy skills through interactive learning. | $287 |
| 3 | Lights, No Camera, Action! Light Table Learning | Jennissa Schommer | Sensory-based tools support early math and literacy development through hands-on exploration. Students build foundational cognitive and motor skills. | $500 |
| 4 | Guided Math | Chelsey Skogerbo | Differentiated instruction materials support individualized math learning paths. Students work in small groups to build targeted skills. | $630 |
| 5 | Guided Math for Second Grade Students | Rachel Norton | Math manipulatives and games support personalized instruction and engagement. Students strengthen understanding through interactive practice. | $650 |
| 6 | Speed Stacking—Brain and Body | Samantha Bauchle | Movement-based learning improves coordination, focus, and cognitive engagement. Students benefit from integrated physical activity and academics. | $700 |
Excelsior Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | First Grade STEM Station | Kristie Remick | A STEM station provides hands-on engineering and design challenges. Students build, test, and refine structures collaboratively. | $1,500 |
| 2 | Musical Rainbow | Catherine Harding | A professional music residency develops rhythm, vocal performance, and confidence. Students engage in creative and expressive learning experiences. | $4,000 |
Groveland Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Little Idea, Big Difference | Grace Mevissen | Students explore social justice topics through literature and solution-based projects. They design and propose real-world community solutions. | $1,000 |
Minnewashta Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Student Well-being Library: Supporting the Whole Child | Mandy Mattke | SEL library resources support emotional development, empathy, and positive behavior. Teachers use materials for instruction and intervention. | $1,165 |
| 2 | Art Room on Wheels | Christin Congdon | A mobile art system improves access and flexibility for art instruction. Students learn responsibility and organization through shared materials. | $1,500 |
Scenic Heights Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Improving Executive Function (EF) Skills in the Classroom | Qingling Mendenhall | Students develop executive functioning skills such as planning, memory, and organization. These skills support academic success and self-management. | $400 |
| 2 | Chinese Character Stroke Order Practice App | Hui Yu | A digital app supports Chinese character writing practice in immersion classrooms. Students build foundational language skills. | $540 |
| 3 | Social Emotional Learning Library | Angie Elliott | Updated SEL texts support emotional learning and classroom instruction. The library reflects current student needs and language. | $958 |
| 4 | iPen with Chinese Reading Materials and SEL Resources | Hui Yu | Leveled reading materials support Chinese immersion literacy development. Students improve vocabulary, comprehension, and independence. | $1,200 |
| 5 | Pedal to Success! | Jeanne Krake | Movement-based learning integrates physical activity with academics. Students improve focus, engagement, and collaboration. | $2,800 |
Multiple Elementary Schools
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Colored Choir Hand Chimes | Jennifer Kimball | Students learn music literacy using color-coded chimes and performance activities. The program builds teamwork and musical understanding. | $1,440 |
| 2 | Putting The “Play” Back in Playground | Erin Michael | Adaptive play kits support inclusive recess experiences for all students. The program promotes communication and peer interaction. | $5,940 |
| 3 | Chinese Immersion Author Event featuring Ying Compestine | Erin Carcamo | An author visit enriches Chinese immersion learning through storytelling and cultural experiences. Students engage with language and culture in authentic ways. | $7,500 |
Minnetonka Middle School East
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | PE Journals for MME Staff | Kieran Monaghan | Professional journals support physical education curriculum development. Staff use research to improve instruction. | $264 |
| 2 | Fitness Equipment | Stacie Olson | Strength and conditioning equipment supports student health and fitness. Students learn safe exercise practices and goal setting. | $3,500 |
Minnetonka Middle School West
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Microscope Mounts: Take a Closer Look at the Microscopic World | Todd Noel | Microscope mounts enhance science observation and data collection. Students capture and analyze microscopic images. | $400 |
| 2 | NA Robotics Drone Experience | Fred Stock | Drone demonstrations connect students to real-world STEM applications. Students observe engineering and data collection. | $500 |
| 3 | Manikin Mania | Jen Syverson | CPR training manikins provide feedback on compression quality. Students develop lifesaving emergency response skills. | $1,800 |
Minnetonka High School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Guest Speaker Honorarium | Sonia Labs | Guest speakers enhance drama and literature instruction. Students engage with professionals in the arts. | $500 |
| 2 | Histology Update for Human Anatomy and Physiology | Amy Sommers | Updated microscope slides support advanced biology instruction. Students study cells and organ systems. | $510 |
| 3 | Hands on Electricity in Physical Science with Snap Circuits | Joe Cossette | Circuit kits provide hands-on physics learning. Students design and analyze electrical systems. | $1,100 |
| 4 | Intercultural Competence Training | Sarah Strauss | Curriculum supports global competency in Spanish language learning. Students develop intercultural communication skills. | $1,210 |
| 5 | Geiger Counters for Science Courses | Russ Durkee | Radiation detection tools support applied physics learning. Students analyze real-world scientific data. | $1,942 |
| 6 | Books for Breakfast | Ann Kaste | Book discussion program promotes literacy engagement and reading enjoyment. Students participate in structured literary conversations. | $2,000 |
All Schools
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Park Nicollet Growing Through Grief Stress Reduction Tool Kit | Donna Dahl | A counseling toolkit supports students coping with grief and emotional stress. It provides strategies for emotional regulation during crises. | $759 |
| 2 | Design for Learning | Nicole Snedden | District innovation initiative redesigns learning environments using human-centered design. It supports student-centered learning across schools. | $5,000 |
2017-2018
Summary
The 2017–2018 Minnetonka Teacher Grants program awarded 35 grants totaling $63,124 across all schools and programs.
Focus areas included: STEM/technology integration, literacy and reading support, mathematics instruction, social-emotional learning and mental health, physical education and wellness, arts and music enrichment, cultural/global education, environmental science and sustainability, special education supports, and student leadership/service learning.
Summary by School
- Early Childhood & Family Education — 1 grant — $818
- Clear Springs Elementary School — 4 grants — $5,448
- Deephaven Elementary School — 3 grants — $6,050
- Excelsior Elementary School — 3 grants — $5,336
- Groveland Elementary School — 4 grants — $4,320
- Minnewashta Elementary School — 3 grants — $5,790
- Scenic Heights Elementary School — 4 grants — $2,518
- Multiple Schools — 4 grants — $7,528
- Minnetonka Middle School East — 1 grant — $2,995
- Minnetonka Middle School West — 3 grants — $4,813
- Minnetonka High School — 4 grants — $7,508
- All Schools — 1 grant — $10,000
Early Childhood & Family Education
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Puzzles for Preschoolers | Ashley Peterson | This grant provides real-life picture puzzles for preschool students to build spatial awareness and deepen understanding of key themes such as families, jobs, and life cycles. The puzzles support early cognitive development through hands-on exploration. They also reinforce foundational literacy and science concepts in developmentally appropriate ways. | $818 |
Clear Springs Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Language T-Ability | Diana Ortiz | This grant supports Spanish immersion instruction through headphones and enrichment tools tied to the Istation program. Students strengthen listening comprehension, vocabulary, and language acquisition skills. The tools allow more individualized and small-group language development. | $500 |
| 2 | Calming Kits | Amy Horning | This grant provides calming kits to support students experiencing anxiety or emotional dysregulation. Tools include stress relief items and books that teach coping strategies. Students gain practical skills for self-regulation and classroom readiness. | $1,500 |
| 3 | Weather Station- Hands on Science Tools | Dawn Johnson | Students will use scientific tools in a hands-on weather station integrated across multiple subjects. The project promotes data collection, analysis, and inquiry-based learning. Students study real-world weather patterns over time. | $1,698 |
| 4 | Next Steps for the Minnetonka/Ghana Connection | Delette Lemon | This grant strengthens ongoing global connections with schools in Ghana through improved internet access. Students engage in consistent virtual communication and collaborative projects. The initiative expands cultural understanding and global citizenship. | $1,750 |
Deephaven Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Digital Downloads | Jennifer Peters | This grant enhances guided reading instruction using e-reader downloads on iPads. Students access leveled texts that support comprehension and vocabulary development. The flexibility improves individualized reading instruction. | $450 |
| 2 | STEM Bins for Kindergarten | Lizzy Maus | STEM bins provide hands-on materials for early engineering and problem-solving experiences. Students explore collaborative learning through play-based STEM activities. The materials build foundational scientific thinking skills. | $500 |
| 3 | Engaged Pedaling Power | Jennissa Schommer | This grant funds a multi-person pedal table to support movement during instruction. Physical activity helps improve focus and engagement during small-group learning. It supports kinesthetic learning and sensory needs. | $5,100 |
Excelsior Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Chinese Folk Song and Dance | Hsin-Yi Liu | Students learn traditional Chinese folk songs and dances to deepen cultural understanding. The project culminates in school performances for families and staff. It strengthens both cultural appreciation and performance skills. | $1,000 |
| 2 | Special Ed Tools | Liz Myer | This grant creates calming and structured spaces for special education students. Tools support sensory regulation, reduced distractions, and individualized learning needs. Students gain improved access to learning environments. | $1,548 |
| 3 | Broaden the Bookshelves | Tim Ketel | Classroom libraries are expanded with diverse and inclusive literature. Books represent a wide range of cultures, identities, and abilities. This supports engagement and reading growth for all learners. | $2,788 |
Groveland Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Students and Elders Learning Together | Sara Lovelace and Patricia Cespedes-Schueller | Students partner with a senior center to build intergenerational relationships. The project fosters empathy, leadership, and community engagement. Students learn the value of service and connection. | $400 |
| 2 | My Memory Book- Scrapbooking Through the Year | Tara Sweeney | Special education students create memory books documenting their school year experiences. The project supports communication and reflection for students with limited expressive abilities. It provides a meaningful way to share experiences with families. | $500 |
| 3 | Kindergarten Aero Gardens | Pam Wertjes | Students learn plant science through hands-on aeroponic gardening. The project integrates science and health concepts such as plant growth and nutrition. Students observe real-time biological processes. | $1,260 |
| 4 | Ride and Read | Rachel Studnicka | Recumbent bikes are used to support movement while reading in the classroom. Physical activity helps improve focus and engagement during learning tasks. The project connects fitness with literacy development. | $2,160 |
Minnewashta Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Virtual Field Trips | Heather Baker and Joy Curran | Students experience immersive virtual reality field trips to global locations. VR tools enhance engagement through interactive exploration. The project expands access to real-world learning experiences. | $1,750 |
| 2 | ScreenFlex Mobile Art Displays | Christin Congdon | Mobile display systems allow students to curate and exhibit artwork throughout the school. Students learn presentation and curation skills. The project increases visibility of student creativity. | $1,870 |
| 3 | Books are Alive! Reading is Fun! | Sofia Cerritos | Interactive bilingual books enhance reading engagement and science learning. Students build vocabulary through interdisciplinary content in English and Spanish. The grant supports independent reading development. | $2,170 |
Scenic Heights Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Advanced Calming Kits for Students | Qingling Mendenhall | Enhanced calming kits help students manage stress and return to learning quickly. Tools support emotional regulation and self-awareness. The kits build coping strategies for classroom success. | $168 |
| 2 | Unforgettable First Day of School | Qingling Mendenhall | Students participate in engaging science activities during the first week of school. The experience builds classroom community and engagement. It promotes hands-on learning and collaboration. | $320 |
| 3 | SACHIKO – Finding Peace: An Author Visit | Melinda Barry | An author visit brings historical and cultural perspectives into the classroom. Students learn about peace, history, and storytelling through personal narrative. The program deepens global awareness. | $900 |
| 4 | Hydroponic Tower Garden in the Classroom | Qingling Mendenhall | Students explore hydroponic plant growth through a classroom tower garden. The project integrates science, math, and health concepts. It provides hands-on environmental learning. | $1,130 |
Multiple Schools
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Speaking and Listening Stations | Deb Jensen | Speech and language stations support targeted student communication practice. Students improve articulation and self-monitoring skills. The tools enhance individualized intervention. | $308 |
| 2 | Collaborative Math/Science Board Games | Ali Wachutka | Board games reinforce math and science concepts through collaborative play. Students build problem-solving and critical thinking skills. The games increase engagement across grade levels. | $1,000 |
| 3 | Chinese Folklore and Folkgame for Library Resource | Hsin-Yi Liu | Students explore Chinese culture through traditional games and folklore resources. The materials integrate cultural learning into classroom instruction. Students gain hands-on global cultural experiences. | $2,720 |
| 4 | Reflex Math – The Importance of Fact Fluency for Successful Mathematicians | Kimberly Ewen | Reflex Math supports development of automatic math fact fluency. Students practice skills through interactive, motivational digital tools. The program strengthens foundational math performance. | $3,500 |
Minnetonka Middle School East
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Deck Crew: School Climate Improved by Students | Bev Antilley | The WEB-based Deck Crew program supports mentoring and school climate improvement. Eighth graders mentor younger students throughout the year. The initiative strengthens belonging and school community. | $2,995 |
Minnetonka Middle School West
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Elements Kit | Lena Pivec | Element kits support hands-on learning of the periodic table. Students explore scientific properties through interactive models and displays. The project enhances engagement in chemistry concepts. | $866 |
| 2 | Tedx Conference | Lisa Lewis | Students participate in a TEDx-style conference connected to interdisciplinary learning. They research global topics and present ideas publicly. The project builds communication and critical thinking skills. | $1,000 |
| 3 | Gallery Display of Student Art in School | Emily Swagel | This grant funds display systems for showcasing student artwork. Students gain opportunities to curate and exhibit creative work. The project increases visibility of student achievement in the arts. | $2,947 |
Minnetonka High School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Drone On | David Surver | A drone provides real-world applications for mathematics concepts. Students explore geometry and trigonometry through flight data. The tool enhances engagement through applied learning. | $623 |
| 2 | Tonka Serves | Michelle Seets | This program supports leadership development in student service organizations. Students participate in training, reflection, and leadership skill-building. The initiative promotes civic engagement and service learning. | $1,500 |
| 3 | Yoga for All | Alison Terrell | Weekly yoga sessions support student and staff wellness. Participants learn stress management and physical wellness techniques. The program promotes mental and physical health. | $2,185 |
| 4 | Social Skills Through Improv | Kelly Kautz | Improvisation classes help students develop communication and social skills. Students practice collaboration and adaptive thinking in supportive environments. The program supports students with social challenges. | $3,200 |
All Schools
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Design for Learning | Nicole Snedden | This district-wide initiative supports innovation in learning environments. It focuses on redesigning physical and instructional spaces to improve teaching and learning. The project encourages human-centered design practices. | $10,000 |
2016-2017
Summary
Total number of grants: 32
Total amount awarded: $59,898
Grant focus areas: STEM & coding innovation, literacy and writing support, arts and music education, social-emotional learning & mental health, physical education & wellness, global education & cultural learning, environmental science & sustainability, and classroom technology integration.
Summary by School
-
Clear Springs Elementary School — 1 grant — $1,350
-
Deephaven Elementary School — 1 grant — $3,200
-
Excelsior Elementary School — 4 grants — $3,516
- Groveland Elementary School — 2 grants — $3,510
- Minnewashta Elementary School — 2 grants — $3,851
- Scenic Heights Elementary School — 3 grants — $2,823
- All Elementary Schools — 3 grants — $4,554
- Minnetonka Middle School East — 4 grants — $5,675
- Minnetonka Middle School West — 2 grants — $1,990
- Minnetonka High School — 6 grants — $18,325
- All Schools — 3 grants — $10,354
- Minnetonka Community Education/Early Childhood & Family Education — 1 grant — $750
Clear Springs Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | iPad Keyboards | Carey Sonnenberg | Students will use tactile iPad keyboards to improve typing fluency and writing development. This supports writing units by helping students more efficiently translate ideas into digital text. The tools strengthen communication and composition skills. | $1,350 |
Deephaven Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Elementary Fitness Heart Rate Watches | Samantha Bauchle | Heart rate monitors teach students how to track fitness zones and understand how their bodies respond to exercise. Students learn to set goals and take ownership of their physical health. This builds lifelong wellness awareness through data-driven feedback. | $3,200 |
Excelsior Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Hydroponics in the Classroom | Tarah Cummings | Students build hydroponic systems to study plant growth using water and nutrients. The project connects STEM concepts with real-world agricultural challenges and resource management. Students explore experimentation and innovation through hands-on science. | $476 |
| 2 | Authentic Circuits with Makey Makey | Ali Wachutka | Students use Makey Makey kits to build circuit-based controllers and explore electrical conductivity. The project encourages creativity, experimentation, and coding-adjacent thinking. Students design and test interactive systems through hands-on STEM learning. | $515 |
| 3 | Advance Incubators and OvaScopes for Life Science | Hsin-Yi Liu | Advanced incubators and ovascopes allow students to observe egg development in real time. Students study life cycles using digital visualization tools and improved environmental controls. This deepens inquiry-based learning in life science. | $750 |
| 4 | S.M.A.R.T. Program | Rebecca Johnson | The S.M.A.R.T. program uses multisensory physical activities to strengthen brain development and readiness skills. It supports visual perception, coordination, and motor development for early learners. The program improves foundational academic readiness in reading and math. | $1,775 |
Groveland Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Grandparents and Grandchildren Sing Together | Seth Boyd | Students collaborate with a senior vocal ensemble in a multigenerational music performance. The experience builds community connections and appreciation across age groups. Students develop confidence and performance skills through shared music-making. | $1,350 |
| 2 | Hands-on Computer Building and Programming | Sara Lovelace | Students assemble and program functional computers to complete structured tasks. The project builds teamwork, logic, and foundational computer science skills. Students gain hands-on experience with hardware and programming concepts. | $2,160 |
Minnewashta Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Digital Microscope for iPads | Joy Curran & Heather Baker | Students use digital microscopes connected to iPads to observe and share scientific images. The tools enhance science units and allow collaborative visual learning. Students strengthen inquiry skills through magnified observation. | $1,500 |
| 2 | Imagination Playground in Action | Maria Chopite | Large modular blocks allow students to design and build collaborative play structures. The system promotes creativity, teamwork, and problem-solving through active play. Students engage in open-ended, construction-based learning. | $2,351 |
Scenic Heights Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Chinese Culture Engagement – Dragon/Lion Dance | Xue Han | Students learn and perform traditional Chinese dragon and lion dances. The project builds cultural understanding through music, movement, and design. Students explore global traditions through active performance. | $639 |
| 2 | Diverse Kids | Anita Britton & Jennifer Cho | This project highlights multicultural awareness and representation through speakers and cultural materials. Students learn about diversity and inclusion through shared experiences. The grant strengthens cultural understanding and empathy. | $1,669 |
| 3 | Authentic Circuits with Makey Makey | Ali Wachutka | Students explore circuitry and coding concepts by building interactive controllers using Makey Makey kits. The project emphasizes experimentation and creative problem-solving. Students engage in hands-on STEM learning through design and iteration. | $515 |
All Elementary Schools
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Minnetonka Elementary School Musical | Lauren Bartelt | Students across all elementary schools participate in a shared musical production. The program builds collaboration, performance skills, and confidence through theater. Students rotate performances and share resources across schools. | $1,000 |
| 2 | Critical Thinking and Collaboration through Code Breaking | Ali Wachutka | Students solve themed puzzles using logic and collaborative problem-solving. Breakout-style activities promote engagement across multiple subject areas. The program strengthens critical thinking and teamwork skills. | $1,474 |
| 3 | Size Matters Handwriting Program | Kelli Anderson | This program supports handwriting development by focusing on letter sizing and legibility. It benefits students receiving occupational therapy support. The goal is improved writing confidence and clarity. | $2,080 |
Minnetonka Middle School East
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Keyboards for iPads | Liz McAllister | Students use keyboards to improve typing fluency and reduce writing barriers on iPads. The tools support essays, presentations, and daily writing tasks. This increases efficiency and writing confidence. | $450 |
| 2 | Jamstik Smart Guitar | Karen Gotz | Students learn guitar using a technology-enhanced smart instrument with feedback apps. The system tracks progress and supports individualized learning. It increases engagement in music instruction. | $450 |
| 3 | Plug and Communicate | Eva Boyd | Classroom keyboards support improved writing fluency and revision processes. Students can more efficiently compose digital assignments. The tools strengthen communication skills in language arts. | $1,575 |
| 4 | Heart Rate Monitors for Physical Education | Melissa Sundboom | Students track fitness intensity using heart rate monitoring systems. Real-time feedback helps them set goals and understand physical performance. This promotes motivation and healthy habits. | $3,200 |
Minnetonka Middle School West
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Building K’NEX DNA Models | Jennifer Morcomb | Students build physical models of DNA and RNA structures using K’NEX kits. The hands-on activity reinforces genetics concepts through collaboration. It strengthens understanding of molecular biology foundations. | $990 |
| 2 | Log Rolling Club | Sarah Beron | Students participate in log rolling using a portable Key Log system. The activity builds balance, coordination, and strength. It also provides a unique extracurricular physical education opportunity. | $1,000 |
Minnetonka High School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | What Do You Really Look Like? | David Surver | Students explore mathematical reflection concepts using a true-image mirror. The tool helps connect abstract math concepts to real-world visual understanding. It enhances engagement in classroom learning. | $200 |
| 2 | Home Maintenance and Renovation Course Supplies | Brad Eby | Students gain hands-on experience with tools used in home repair and renovation. The course connects classroom learning to vocational skills and real-world applications. Students learn practical construction and maintenance skills. | $1,000 |
| 3 | Chemistry Probeware Enhancement | Clint Fenner & Sean Holmes | Advanced lab equipment allows students to conduct real-world chemistry experiments. Students collect and analyze scientific data using modern tools. The grant enhances inquiry-based science learning. | $12,825 |
| 4 | Research Topics in Human Physiology | Stephanie Nelson | Students use data collection tools to study human body systems and physiological responses. The equipment supports experimental design and analysis. It deepens understanding of biology concepts. | $1,000 |
| 5 | Cine Slider | Andy Smith | The cine slider enhances video production capabilities for student filmmakers. It adds motion and professionalism to visual storytelling projects. Students gain experience with industry-level tools. | $1,300 |
| 6 | Social Skills Through Improv | Kelly Kautz | Students with ASD participate in improvisation activities to strengthen social navigation skills. The program provides structured practice in communication and interaction. It builds confidence in social situations. | $2,000 |
All Schools
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tools For Anxious Youth | Colleen Faber & Kathleen Leisman | Students use stress-monitoring tools to better understand and manage anxiety. The tools support social workers in intervention and awareness strategies. This improves student emotional regulation and well-being. | $1,554 |
| 2 | Extended School Year Opportunities | Colleen Faber & Amy Horning | Students participate in enriching year-round learning experiences to support academic and social growth. The program partners schools and community organizations. It increases access for underserved students. | $3,800 |
| 3 | Media Resources Supporting the Minnetonka Framework | All Media Specialists | New print and digital media resources support district-wide instruction and personalized learning. Resources are accessible across schools and at home. This strengthens curriculum support and student engagement. | $5,000 |
Minnetonka Community Education / Early Childhood & Family Education
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Backyard STEAM | Margaret Coldwell & Sara Ridgway | Preschool students engage in STEAM learning through outdoor, hands-on experiences. Activities are aligned with early childhood curriculum. The program builds curiosity and foundational science understanding. | $750 |
2015-2016
Summary
In the 2015–2016 school year, a total of 46 teacher grants were awarded, totaling $98,277 in funding across the district.
Grant funding supported a wide range of focus areas, including STEM/Robotics/Coding, literacy and reading intervention, technology integration, arts and music, global education and multicultural learning, social-emotional learning and mental health, environmental science and sustainability, and special education/support interventions.
Summary by School
- Clear Springs Elementary School — 3 grants, $3,546
- Deephaven Elementary School — 5 grants, $9,648
- Excelsior Elementary School — 3 grants, $3,972
- Groveland Elementary School — 3 grants, $5,050
- Minnewashta Elementary School — 6 grants, $7,148
- Scenic Heights Elementary School — 5 grants, $8,096
- Deephaven / Excelsior / Minnewashta Elementary Schools — 4 grants, $7,600
- All Elementary Schools — 0 grants, $0 (not listed separately as a standalone category this year)
- Minnetonka Middle School East — 5 grants, $5,479
- Minnetonka Middle School West — 4 grants, $6,398
- Minnetonka High School — 5 grants, $14,340
- All Schools Grant — 1 grant, $25,000
- Minnetonka Community Education / Early Childhood & Family Education — 2 grants, $2,000
Clear Springs Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | African Drumming in the Elementary School Classroom | Melanie McIvor | Builds on prior drumming instruction by bringing in a residency program to deepen African drumming and rhythm learning for all K–5 students. Students will learn and perform African drumming compositions, strengthening cultural understanding and musical skills. | $2,000 |
| 2 | The Tonka-Ghana Connection: Taking the Next Step | Delette Lemon | Expands an existing global partnership by enabling more students in Minnetonka and Ghana to Skype together. Adds conferencing equipment to improve communication and deepen cross-cultural learning experiences. | $600 |
| 3 | Around the World with Handbells | Jenny Kimball | Provides handbells and curriculum for K–4 students to explore music from around the world. Students gain hands-on musical experience while developing collaboration and performance skills. | $946 |
Deephaven Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Coding Chromebooks | Kirsten Lunzer | Provides Chromebooks to expand coding instruction in 4th grade classrooms. Supports differentiation, independent work restructuring, and increased access to technology-based learning. | $5,250 |
| 2 | Math Literacy and Daily 5 for Math | Jennifer Peters | Uses math-focused trade books to support small-group instruction during math class. Strengthens conceptual understanding and encourages math-related writing and discussion. | $845 |
| 3 | Assisting with Barriers through Technology | Julie Hines, Mandy Mattke | Supplies iPods and apps for targeted social-emotional and academic interventions. Helps increase engagement and supports data-driven intervention strategies. | $1,100 |
| 4 | GoPro DEEPHAVEN | Karl Boberg | Uses GoPro technology to document STEM activities and school events for 5th graders. Students create and share videos to enhance reflection and communication. | $755 |
| 5 | Hand Chimes (Suzuki Tone Chimes) | Carol Carlson | Expands classroom music resources shared across Deephaven and MMW. Enhances student understanding of musical concepts through collaborative performance. | $1,698 |
Excelsior Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Alternative Seating for Chinese Immersion Classrooms | Yan Li | Adds stand-up desks to support movement-based learning in immersion classrooms. Helps meet diverse learning needs and improves student focus. | $434 |
| 2 | Kick Up the Learning! | Liz Gluck | Provides standing desks with footrests to support student movement during learning tasks. Helps students regulate attention and engage more effectively in instruction. | $1,350 |
| 3 | Audio Chinese and English Picture Dictionary | Jie Gao | Supplies bilingual audio dictionaries that support English and Chinese language learning. Students improve vocabulary and pronunciation through interactive audio tools. | $2,188 |
Groveland Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Robotic Engineers | Sara Lovelace | Provides programmable robotics kits for 2nd grade STEM learning. Students collaborate with mentors to design and program robots for specific tasks. | $2,748 |
| 2 | Read and Serve | Maryrose Adamek | Combines literacy with service learning to build empathy and community engagement. Students read selected texts and complete related service projects. | $1,302 |
| 3 | Hydroponics with Spain | Trudy Schnorr | Introduces hydroponic Tower Garden systems and international collaboration with a Spanish classroom. Students study plant growth while sharing data and communication globally. | $1,000 |
Minnewashta Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Multicultural Author Visits | Lanica Klein | Brings diverse authors and illustrators to younger students to promote cultural understanding. Encourages early conversations about diversity and inclusion. | $2,900 |
| 2 | Tower Garden | Mabel Crandell | Provides classroom garden systems for hands-on plant science learning. Students observe plant growth and connect science concepts to real-world agriculture. | $1,100 |
| 3 | Livescribe Pens: Writing Intervention Innovation | Amy Shatava | Uses smart pens to support students with writing challenges. Enables audio-recorded note-taking and digital review for improved written expression. | $1,051 |
| 4 | OSMO for Primer Grado | Maria Chopite | Introduces Osmo learning systems to support interactive literacy and math development. Encourages collaboration and hands-on digital learning. | $480 |
| 5 | Mind Fit: Tune in and Tune Up Your Body and Mind | Kelly Hanson | Provides after-school programming focused on mindfulness and resilience. Supports emotional regulation and growth mindset development. | $427 |
| 6 | Livin’ Peace Wall | Mercedes Scott, Carolyn Suarez | Creates a living plant wall that supports sensory and calming spaces for students. Enhances wellness and provides hands-on horticultural learning. | $1,190 |
Scenic Heights Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Around the World with Handbells | Jenny Kimball | Provides K–4 students with handbell instruments for global music exploration. Builds early musical skills and cultural awareness. | $946 |
| 2 | Hands-On African Drumming | Mary Renz | Supplies African drums for cultural music instruction. Promotes rhythm, teamwork, and cultural appreciation through performance. | $1,000 |
| 3 | WeatherBug School Program | Joe Wacker | Installs weather station technology for real-time data analysis. Supports science, math, and technology integration across classrooms. | $5,000 |
| 4 | Fidgety Fairy Tales | Colleen Faber | Uses performance-based storytelling to teach mental health awareness. Helps students understand emotional wellness in an engaging format. | $1,000 |
| 5 | Aqua Farm Systems | Lisa Roddy | Provides aquaponics systems for classroom science experiments. Students compare sustainable growing systems and study ecosystems. | $150 |
Deephaven / Excelsior / Minnewashta Elementary Schools
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Global Education Through Music | Mandy Mattke | Provides a world music library for classroom use across multiple schools. Supports cultural exposure through music integration. | $300 |
| 2 | All Elementary Robot Turtles | Pam Wertjes, Kari Harman | Introduces coding through board games for kindergarten classrooms districtwide. Builds early programming logic and problem-solving skills. | $1,800 |
| 3 | Elementary Science Microscopes | Katie Regenscheid, Carol Carlson | Supplies microscopes for all elementary schools to support inquiry science. Enhances observation skills and scientific investigation. | $2,000 |
| 4 | Minnetonka Elementary Musical | Lauren Bartelt | Funds the district-wide elementary musical production. Provides performing arts experiences for students across all elementary schools. | $3,500 |
Minnetonka Middle School East
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Growth Mindset Pilot Project | Cindy McGlasson | Implements growth mindset curriculum training for teachers and students. Encourages resilience and improved academic performance. | $1,500 |
| 2 | Young Film Makers | Bill Finnerty | Supports filmmaking instruction through equipment and editing software. Builds communication and storytelling skills. | $1,000 |
| 3 | I Am Malala | Gina Nelson | Provides digital reading materials for global studies curriculum. Engages students in global issues and civic action projects. | $115 |
| 4 | Impact Lives: A Global Learning Experience | Gina Nelson | Partners with nonprofit to bring global storytelling and service learning. Students engage in real-world problem solving projects. | $1,200 |
| 5 | Tone Chimes | Karen Gotz | Supplies tone chimes for classroom music instruction. Enhances musical literacy and collaboration through performance. | $1,664 |
Minnetonka Middle School West
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Hand Chimes (Suzuki Tone Chimes) | Carol Carlson | Expands shared chime resources for music instruction. Supports ensemble performance and musical concept development. | $1,698 |
| 2 | History Live Lesson | Mary Goettsche, Mary Benson | Brings interactive history programming into social studies classrooms. Uses role-play and video conferencing to deepen historical understanding. | $1,000 |
| 3 | Global Novel Project and Author Skype | Lisa Lewis | Integrates global literature with author Skype sessions and service learning. Connects reading to real-world humanitarian projects. | $3,000 |
| 4 | WeConnect—Global Youth Citizenship Club | Danielle Pittel | Launches student club focused on global citizenship and leadership. Encourages cultural awareness and student-driven initiatives. | $700 |
Minnetonka High School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Video Crane | Andy Smith | Provides professional video production equipment for student media. Expands creative storytelling and technical skills. | $1,640 |
| 2 | The Second Screen | David Surver | Adds secondary display tools to support math instruction. Increases visual learning and step-by-step concept modeling. | $1,200 |
| 3 | Flexible Student Workspace | Kelly Mosiman | Redesigns classrooms to support collaborative and flexible learning environments. Encourages creativity and 21st-century skills. | $5,000 |
| 4 | Writing Center | Maggie Shea | Renovates the Writing Center to improve student writing support services. Enhances peer coaching and individualized instruction. | $5,000 |
| 5 | Legacy Project: Continuing on Excellence | Laurie Lokar | Expands student leadership and community service initiatives. Encourages long-term civic engagement and impact. | $1,500 |
All Schools Grant
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Literature Take 2: eBooks for K-12 Students | Media Specialists at all schools | Expands district-wide access to eBooks and global literature. Supports 21st-century reading access for all students. | $25,000 |
Minnetonka Community Education / Early Childhood & Family Education
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Preschool Gym Equipment for All Areas of Development | Sarah Koopman | Provides preschool gross motor development equipment. Supports coordination, balance, and social skill development. | $500 |
| 2 | Around the World and Back Again with Tom Chapin | Mary Babcock, Deb Hughes | Brings a musical performance to support global learning themes in preschool. Engages families and students in music and movement-based learning. | $1,500 |
2014-2015
Summary
Total number of grants awarded: 40
Total dollars awarded: $78,050
Focus areas across grants:
-
STEM, coding, robotics, engineering, and biotechnology
-
Literacy, eBooks, language acquisition, and writing support
-
Visual arts, music, theater, and media production
-
Social-emotional learning, sensory regulation, and mental health supports
-
Multicultural education and global collaboration
-
Special education supports and differentiated instruction tools
-
Early childhood math and hands-on manipulatives
-
Environmental science and experiential learning
-
Family engagement and community-based learning
Summary by School
- Clear Springs Elementary School — 4 grants, $4,725
- Deephaven Elementary School — 2 grants, $1,354
- Excelsior Elementary School — 2 grants, $1,140
- Groveland Elementary School — 5 grants, $5,465
- Minnewashta Elementary School — 1 grant, $653
- Scenic Heights Elementary School — 4 grants, $4,261
- Minnetonka Middle School East — 5 grants, $7,570
- Minnetonka Middle School West — 4 grants, $9,053
- MME/MMW Joint Grant — 1 grant, $4,139
- Minnetonka High School — 8 grants, $17,690
- All Schools Grant — 1 grant, $20,000
- Minnetonka Community Education/ECFE — 2 grants, $1,500
- Transition Plus — 1 grant, $500
Clear Springs Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Get Hooked on Nooks | Liz Leingang | Provides Nook e-readers and eBooks for small group instruction. Students can highlight, annotate, and customize reading features for accessibility. Teachers can load guided reading supports directly onto devices. | $604 |
| 2 | Face to Face Across the World | Delette Lemon | Builds a digital partnership with schools in Ghana through email and Skype connections. Students engage in authentic cross-cultural communication. Strengthens global awareness and cultural understanding. | $840 |
| 3 | Robots for Tots—Part 2 | Andy Lundheim | Introduces Bee-Bot programmable robots for early coding instruction. Students solve logic and sequencing challenges through hands-on exploration. Builds foundational computational thinking skills. | $1,300 |
| 4 | African Drumming | Jennifer Kimball | Provides djembe drums for culturally responsive music education shared with Scenic Heights. Students participate in drumming circles to build rhythm, collaboration, and unity. Supports cross-cultural artistic expression. | $1,981 |
Deephaven Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Computer Coding “Unplugged” | Julie Rothman | Provides hands-on STEM kits to teach coding concepts without devices. Students develop problem-solving, teamwork, and computational thinking skills. Supports long-term integration of coding instruction. | $454 |
| 2 | iPad as a Calming Device for Use Within the Classroom | Michelle Makres | Supplies iPads, apps, and headphones to support emotional regulation in class. Students remain in the classroom while using calming digital tools. Reduces disruptions and supports individualized behavioral needs. | $900 |
Excelsior Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Chinese Books on Kindle | Yuan Wang | Provides Kindle-based Chinese reading and audio materials for language learning. Supports pronunciation, listening, and reading comprehension. Helps differentiate instruction across skill levels. | $480 |
| 2 | Handwriting without Tears | Jennifer Hanson / Kelly Fisher | Implements structured handwriting instruction using hands-on manipulatives. Builds foundational writing skills in early learners. Makes handwriting instruction engaging and developmentally appropriate. | $660 |
Groveland Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sensory Friendly and Accessible Environment | Amy Raffelson | Creates sensory-supportive classroom environments using lighting, seating, and calming tools. Helps students with sensory needs improve focus and learning outcomes. Increases classroom accessibility. | $1,155 |
| 2 | Wade into Science STEM | Sara Lovelace | Engages students in seasonal, inquiry-based science investigations. Builds observation, experimentation, and scientific reasoning skills. Encourages curiosity and hands-on learning. | $960 |
| 3 | iEngaged Learner | Sheri Simpson | Introduces robotics and coding through interactive problem-solving activities. Students program robots to complete tasks and challenges. Strengthens computational thinking through play. | $1,000 |
| 4 | Close the Gap! Special Needs Support | Kelly Pederson | Provides iPads to support students with organization and learning challenges. Enhances independence and academic completion. Supports individualized special education needs. | $1,500 |
| 5 | Tower Garden | Jennifer Torres | Uses hydroponic tower gardens for hands-on plant science learning. Students study growth variables and collect data. Connects biology concepts to real-world observation. | $850 |
Minnewashta Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tools to Help Spanish Immersion Kindergarten | Rebekah Wunderlich | Provides classroom tools including a rainbow carpet and audio supports for kindergarten structure. Helps students learn personal space and classroom routines. Supports early immersion learning development. | $653 |
Scenic Heights Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Chinese Calligraphy Tools | Jing Yang | Supplies traditional calligraphy tools for Chinese language learning. Helps students understand character structure and cultural context. Supports immersive cultural education. | $500 |
| 2 | Art Reproductions | Jonathan Maki | Showcases student artwork through gallery reproductions and displays. Promotes creativity and visual arts appreciation. Strengthens visibility of student artistic expression. | $1,000 |
| 3 | African Drumming | Jennifer Kimball | Provides shared percussion instruments for cultural music education. Students learn rhythm and collaboration through group performance. Strengthens cross-cultural understanding. | $1,981 |
| 4 | Math Support Family Fun Night | Kim Ewen | Supports family engagement through interactive math nights and games. Encourages math learning through play and family participation. Strengthens school-home connections. | $780 |
Minnetonka Middle School East
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Rachel’s Challenge | Rae Ann Camp | Promotes kindness and positive school culture through student leadership programs. Encourages empathy and peer-to-peer support. Builds long-term character development. | $3,700 |
| 2 | MME Garage Club | Melanie DeWitt | Introduces innovation challenges and problem-solving activities. Students explore creativity and design thinking. Builds early engineering mindset. | $50 |
| 3 | Young Filmmakers Camp | Bill Finnerty | Provides equipment for students to create short films in a summer program. Teaches storytelling, editing, and production skills. Encourages creative expression through media. | $970 |
| 4 | Composer in Residence | Dan Mollick | Brings a professional composer into the classroom for hands-on instruction. Students create original compositions using digital tools. Builds music literacy and creativity. | $1,100 |
| 5 | Technology and the New PE | Jason Opsal | Uses heart rate monitors to track student fitness and activity data. Connects physical health to performance and behavior insights. Supports data-informed physical education. | $1,750 |
Minnetonka Middle School West
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Composer in Residence | Laura Olivier | Provides professional music composition instruction for students. Students create original works using digital composition tools. Enhances creativity and musical skills. | $1,100 |
| 2 | MMW Fine Arts Digital Sound Board | Danielle Pittel | Upgrades audio equipment for school performances and productions. Improves sound quality for theater and music events. Provides real-world technical experience for students. | $4,800 |
| 3 | Skype an Author | Lisa Lewis | Connects students with authors through virtual conversations. Makes writing more engaging and accessible. Strengthens literacy and student motivation. | $1,350 |
| 4 | 21st Century Culture of Learning and Team Building | Tom Condon | Provides team-building tools and collaborative learning experiences. Builds trust and cooperation among students. Strengthens school culture and engagement. | $1,803 |
MME/MMW Joint Grant
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Google Nexus Devices to get 6th Graders Excited | Lisa Reed | Provides Nexus devices for app development and programming instruction. Students learn computational thinking and prototype design. Encourages creativity and collaboration. | $4,139 |
Minnetonka High School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sensory Motor Classroom for Neuro-Different Students | Mary Beth Bloom | Creates a sensory regulation space for neurodiverse students. Supports emotional and behavioral regulation. Improves readiness for classroom learning. | $1,750 |
| 2 | Legacy Project: Continuing on Excellence | Danny Walter | Builds student leadership through service and civic engagement projects. Encourages community impact and responsibility. Develops long-term leadership skills. | $1,200 |
| 3 | Video Production Sound Bar and Receiver | Steve Nugent | Enhances video production audio quality with upgraded equipment. Improves student media project professionalism. Provides real-world production experience. | $850 |
| 4 | Jewelry 3D Printer | Steve Nugent | Introduces 3D printing for jewelry design and fabrication. Combines digital design with traditional casting techniques. Expands technical art and engineering skills. | $2,050 |
| 5 | Final Frontier | Brian Olson | Provides hands-on learning in amateur radio and space communications. Supports STEM engagement and licensing opportunities. Builds technical communication skills. | $1,690 |
| 6 | Digital Drawing Tablets | Paul Olson | Supplies professional-grade digital art tablets for students. Enhances digital creativity and industry-relevant skills. Strengthens visual arts instruction. | $8,000 |
| 7 | Biotech in the Classroom | Stephanie Nelson | Provides lab experiences including PCR and gel electrophoresis. Allows students to experience real-world biotechnology. Encourages interest in science careers. | $1,650 |
| 8 | Opening Up the World | Maggie Pistner | Expands multicultural literature and arts exposure. Connects students with diverse cultural organizations and performances. Strengthens global awareness and interpretation skills. | $500 |
All Schools Grant
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Library in My Pocket: eBooks for K-12 Students | Minnetonka Public Schools Media Specialists | Expands district-wide eBook access for all students and staff. Supports digital literacy and reading access year-round. Enhances modern learning resources across all schools. | $20,000 |
Minnetonka Community Education / ECFE
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | See Me Explore! Science Kits for Two and Three Year Olds | Linda Morantez | Provides early childhood science kits for hands-on exploration. Introduces foundational STEM concepts through play. Builds early inquiry and reasoning skills. | $500 |
| 2 | Math Manipulatives for Wee Ones | Deborah Hughes | Supplies math manipulatives for preschool learning programs. Strengthens early numeracy and problem-solving skills. Supports early childhood curriculum goals. | $1,000 |
Transition Plus
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Canine Inspired Change | Lisa Loeding | Engages students in therapy dog training and agility activities. Builds communication, empathy, and teamwork skills. Supports social-emotional development through animal-assisted learning. | $500 |
2013-2014
Summary
This report includes 46 grants totaling $72,375 awarded across Minnetonka Public Schools.
Focus Areas:
STEM/engineering and robotics, educational technology integration (iPads, iPods, Nooks, software tools), literacy and writing enrichment, arts and music education, multicultural and global studies, special education and intervention supports, student leadership and citizenship development, social-emotional learning and wellness, and experiential/project-based learning.
Summary by School
- Clear Springs Elementary School — 2 grants — $2,500
- Excelsior Elementary School — 4 grants — $5,383
- Groveland Elementary School — 5 grants — $5,780
- Minnewashta Elementary School — 4 grants — $3,715
- Scenic Heights Elementary School — 6 grants — $6,514
- Joint Elementary Schools Grant — 3 grants — $8,130
- All Schools — 1 grant — $3,000
- Minnetonka Middle School East — 1 grant — $3,000
- Minnetonka Middle School West — 8 grants — $12,932
- Minnetonka High School — 11 grants — $20,621
- Minnetonka Community Education/ECFE — 1 grant — $800
Clear Springs Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| — | Lego Mindstorm Robots for Tots | Andy Lundheim | First-grade students design and program LEGO Mindstorm robots to complete developmentally appropriate STEM missions. Students work in teams to build, test, and refine robots, strengthening collaboration and problem-solving skills. | $1,500 |
| — | We Can Build It! Yes! Girls Can! | Ursula Speedling | This grant promotes early STEM engagement with visual thinking puzzles and building-based activities, with a focus on encouraging girls in engineering and design. Students integrate creative problem-solving into multiple subject areas through hands-on exploration. | $1,000 |
Excelsior Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| — | APPlying Technology to Encourage the Discouraged Learner | Connie Keefe and Lisa Myer | iPods, Nooks, and apps support special education instruction in academics, communication, and social skills. The technology allows differentiated learning experiences tailored to individual student needs. | $1,562 |
| — | Family Culture Fest | James Nunn | School-wide cultural learning experience featuring assemblies, classroom activities, and family participation events. Students engage with global traditions through ambassadors representing diverse cultures. | $1,000 |
| — | Pingpang Qiu | Jie Gao-Tao & Sani O’Brien | Introduces ping pong tables to promote Chinese cultural learning and physical activity for students. The equipment supports both immersion and traditional students in PE and recess settings. | $1,800 |
| — | Scrabble is Elementary | Tim Ketel | Establishes a Scrabble Club to build vocabulary, language skills, and strategic thinking. Students learn competitive play and participate in structured tournaments. | $1,021 |
Groveland Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| — | Community and Culture | Jen Santamaria | Spanish immersion students engage in cultural performances and presentations from global artists and professionals. Activities build global citizenship and cultural understanding throughout the year. | $2,180 |
| — | Compressed Air equal STEM fun | Brent Frank and 5th Grade Team | Students design and launch water rockets using a compressor as part of a STEM investigation. The project reinforces scientific inquiry and forces of motion through hands-on experimentation. | $300 |
| — | Groveland’s Young Authors’ Conference | Jennifer Hahn | Writing conference connects students with authors and educators through breakout sessions. Students explore creative writing topics and develop communication skills through interactive workshops. | $1,000 |
| — | Making a Difference | Sara Lovelace | Students create crafts and projects for senior citizens while learning community engagement and service. Activities promote empathy, creativity, and intergenerational connection. | $200 |
| — | Making School an Even Playing Field for the Nonverbal Child | Kelly Kautz & Colleen Small | iPads and apps support communication for nonverbal students, enhancing academic and social participation. The technology provides individualized tools for cognitive and communication development. | $2,100 |
Minnewashta Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| — | Active Seating for Kindergarten Students | Rebekah Wunderlich | Stability cushions and Hokki stools support movement-based learning for young students. Flexible seating helps improve focus and engagement during instruction. | $795 |
| — | Backpack Books | Sue Anderson | Students take leveled books home to promote independent reading and literacy growth. The program supports reading fluency and lifelong reading habits. | $500 |
| — | Interactive Spanish Books Non-Fiction Content | Sofia Cerritos | Interactive e-books support Spanish language acquisition through embedded activities and assessments. Students practice reading and vocabulary at their own pace. | $300 |
| — | iPads in the Elementary Classroom | Amanda Zamilpa and Lacy Hladky | Classroom iPads support individualized and collaborative learning across subjects. Students use technology for content creation, practice, and teacher feedback. | $2,120 |
Scenic Heights Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| — | Chinese Drum Dancing | Mary Renz | Third-grade students learn Chinese drumming and dance through a residency program. The project culminates in a school-wide performance celebrating cultural learning. | $2,000 |
| — | Helping Struggling Readers Take Off with the Leveled Literacy Intervention System | Michele Abel | Provides leveled literacy resources for targeted reading intervention. Small-group instruction supports struggling readers in reaching grade-level proficiency. | $1,460 |
| — | Hokki Stools – ACTIVE Sitting for ACTIVE Learning! | Lori Anderson | Active seating stools promote movement and focus during learning. Students benefit from increased engagement and improved work quality. | $660 |
| — | Just Add Water! An Innovative Approach to Teaching Science with MHS Honors Chemistry Students | Katie Tuthill | Elementary students collaborate with high school students through interactive digital science lessons. The program strengthens science understanding and cross-age learning. | $734 |
| — | SMART Thinking! Wiggle All You Want! | Michele Abel | Provides flexible seating options to support reading instruction and student movement needs. Helps students improve focus and reading success. | $660 |
| — | Welcome to InventZania (Formerly Inventing Rocks) | Kim Diekmann | STEM curriculum teaches invention, creativity, and entrepreneurship through hands-on projects. Students present inventions at a culminating school fair. | $1,000 |
Joint Elementary Schools Grant
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| — | Literature Circle Books for English Literacy Teachers | Tarah Cummings | Provides shared literature sets for Spanish and Chinese immersion programs. Encourages collaborative reading and comprehension strategies. | $3,330 |
| — | Minnetonka Elementary Musicals Program | Trent Boyum | Funds elementary musical licensing and production experiences. Students build confidence, collaboration, and performance skills through theater. | $4,000 |
| — | Creativity Counts | Amy O’Neill and Joy Curran | Students participate in creativity-focused workshops and problem-solving activities. The program encourages innovation and peer leadership in learning. | $800 |
All Schools
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| — | Instructional Support Bins | Dawn Torine | Provides sensory and movement-based learning tools for classrooms district-wide. Supports collaboration between special and general education staff. | $3,000 |
Minnetonka Middle School East
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| — | Top 20 Training | Dawn Bruesehoff, Tara Kamann, Deb Zachman, Liz McAllister, Matt Lichty, Lindsay Rosati | Provides training in emotional resilience, relationships, and life skills for students and staff. Lessons are integrated into advisory periods to strengthen school climate. | $3,000 |
Minnetonka Middle School West
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #8 | Audio Recording Devices for Reading Support Options | David M. Olson | Supports struggling readers with audio recording tools for assignments and classroom materials. Enhances accessibility and independent learning. | $500 |
| — | Data Probe Hubs for Real Time Science (iPad Supported) | Sara Hunt | Provides real-time data collection tools for science labs. Students analyze live data and adjust experiments for deeper inquiry learning. | $4,000 |
| — | Hand Chimes (Suzuki Tone Chimes) | Carol Carlson | Introduces tone chimes for hands-on music education. Students develop musical understanding and collaboration skills through performance. | $1,832 |
| — | Leadership Matters – 7 Cs of Leadership | Mary Benson | Leadership speaker program teaches communication, collaboration, and creativity. Strengthens student leadership skills and school engagement. | $1,000 |
| — | Minnesota Video Conferencing Lesson and History Player | Mary Benson | Interactive history programming connects students with historical figures and live video content. Enhances engagement and critical thinking in social studies. | $2,350 |
| — | Peer Mediation | Mary Benson | Trains students in conflict resolution and mediation skills. Promotes positive school culture and peer accountability. | $1,000 |
| — | Social Skills to Go | Kat Scotting and Kathleen Leismann | iPads support mobile social skills instruction for special education students. Enables personalized and interactive learning experiences. | $1,750 |
| — | Therapy Dogs for Anxious Students | Kat Scotting and Paula Erbisch | Provides therapy dog support to reduce student anxiety. Helps students improve emotional regulation and well-being. | $500 |
Minnetonka High School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| — | All the World’s a Stage | Maggie Pistner | Visiting performers enhance English, theater, and journalism curriculum. Students experience live interpretation of literary works. | $2,000 |
| — | The Atomsmith Classroom for High School Chemistry | Timothy Kokesh | Simulation software helps students visualize atomic and molecular behavior. Expands access to advanced chemistry modeling tools. | $3,200 |
| — | Collaborative Mural and Installation Series | Melanie Mozingo | Students design murals and installations for school entryway. Enhances school environment through collaborative visual art. | $800 |
| — | iPad Photography | Melanie Mozingo | iPad lens attachments expand creative photography instruction. Students explore advanced digital imaging techniques. | $283 |
| — | MHS Legacy Project: Phase 2 | Laurie Lokar | Leadership and service-learning initiative connects students with community causes. Supports long-term civic engagement projects. | $1,500 |
| — | Parallels in the Cultural and Biological/Genetic History of Native Americans | Dawn Norton | Combines biology and cultural studies through migration and genetics learning. Includes artist residency and interdisciplinary instruction. | $2,000 |
| — | Pursuit of Passion: Nonfiction Science Resource Library | Kelly Kangas | Provides nonfiction science texts for independent student research projects. Encourages self-directed learning and presentations. | $140 |
| — | Radioactive Boy Scout: Incorporating Literacy into Physical Science | Patricia Price | Uses nonfiction reading to support physical science curriculum. Builds real-world connections to scientific concepts. | $1,953 |
| — | Software Upgrade For CNC Router | Nick Bahr | Upgrades software for advanced engineering and design projects. Expands student capability in fabrication and prototyping. | $745 |
| — | Student Government Grant Proposal | Terri Ellis | Supports student leadership programs and school-wide events. Builds school spirit and civic engagement. | $2,000 |
| — | Wacom Cintiq Digital Tablets | Tim Moen | Provides industry-standard digital drawing tablets for art programs. Expands opportunities in digital design and animation. | $6,000 |
Minnetonka Community Education / ECFE
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| — | Literary Support for Creative Curriculum Study Starters | Mary Babcock | Expands preschool literacy resources with enriched vocabulary books. Supports early learning and language development. | $800 |
2012-2013
Summary
Total number of grants funded: 35
Total dollars awarded: $65,393
Focus areas: literacy & reading development, STEM/engineering, instructional technology (iPads/eReaders/media tools), arts & music enrichment, multicultural/global education, special education supports, health & wellness, and community/service learning.
Summary by School
- Clear Springs Elementary School — 3 grants — $3,430
- Deephaven Elementary School — 1 grant — $2,445
- Excelsior Elementary School — 3 grants — $3,169
- Groveland Elementary School — 2 grants — $2,829
- Minnewashta Elementary School — 4 grants — $3,944
- Scenic Heights Elementary School — 3 grants — $2,705
- Joint Elementary Schools Grant — 1 grant — $11,000
- Joint Middle Schools Grant — 1 grant — $4,815
- Minnetonka Middle School East — 4 grants — $6,001
- Minnetonka Middle School West — 4 grants — $11,992
- Minnetonka High School — 8 grants — $18,343
- Minnetonka Community Education/Early Childhood and Family Education — 1 grant — $750
Clear Springs Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9 | Making Music — Nashville Style | Nicole Snedden | Fifth-grade students engage in a full songwriting process with a professional musician-in-residence. Students collaborate in teams to create and perform original songs for the school community. | $1,000 |
| 18 | Learning to Learn Using iPad Technology | Nancy Mallak-Kirsch | iPads and apps support occupational therapy goals and individualized learning needs. Students use tools for motor, sensory, and language development through differentiated instruction. | $1,950 |
| 25 | Can You Hear Me Now? | Joan Larson | USB stereo headsets support student research presentations and digital storytelling. Students enhance communication skills through engaging, technology-rich presentations. | $480 |
Deephaven Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 39 | Standing Desks | Karl Boberg | Standing desks support kinesthetic learning and increased movement in the classroom. Flexible furniture options help meet diverse student physical and learning needs. | $2,445 |
Excelsior Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 22 | Fourth Grade Nook Clubs for a Generation of Readers | Tim Ketel | eReaders support collaborative book clubs and digital literacy development. Students use built-in tools to enhance comprehension and discussion skills. | $2,150 |
| 27 | Music Infusion: Jamming in the Classroom | Tim Ketel | Students integrate music-making into learning across subjects to deepen understanding. Music supports collaboration, creativity, and engagement. | $269 |
| 28 | Family Culture Fest | Jennifer Kitt | A school-wide cultural celebration promotes global awareness and community engagement. Families share cultural traditions through food, art, and presentations. | $750 |
Groveland Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Groveland's Young Authors Conference | Jennifer Hahn | A writing conference connects students with authors and community mentors. Workshops support creativity and deeper writing development. | $1,100 |
| 42 | Using Innovative Technology to Develop Beginning Reading Skills | Daryl Siefert | Reading Mentor technology provides multi-sensory literacy instruction. Students build decoding, fluency, and independent reading skills. | $1,729 |
Minnewashta Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | Paging for Practice | Monica Hahn | A paging system improves orchestra lesson transitions and reduces classroom disruptions. It increases punctuality and instructional time efficiency. | $1,559 |
| 3 | Apps and Apple Devices for Kindergarten Spanish Immersion Classroom | Rebekah Wunderlich | iPods and apps support early language learning in Spanish immersion classrooms. Centers promote engagement and differentiated instruction. | $1,070 |
| 15 | USB Microphones for Easy Speaking Spanish! | Maria Chopite | Digital microphones support oral language practice and recording in Spanish. Students build confidence and create digital portfolios for assessment. | $910 |
| 23 | Let’s Get Jumping | Sarah Becher | A jump rope club promotes physical activity and lifelong fitness habits. Students develop coordination, teamwork, and healthy lifestyles. | $405 |
Scenic Heights Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 31 | Inventing Rocks | Kim Diekmann and Anita Britton | An inventor-focused STEM residency teaches innovation and entrepreneurship. Students learn design thinking through hands-on creative projects. | $1,000 |
| 34 | Bringing the World to Scenic Heights | Melinda Barry | Multicultural books enrich curriculum and reflect diverse cultures. Students engage with award-winning literature representing global perspectives. | $415 |
| 51 | Chinese Red Drums | Mary Renz | Chinese red drums support cultural learning and performance experiences. Students connect music with traditions and school performances. | $1,290 |
Joint Elementary Schools Grant
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 48 | 21st Century Skills call for 21st Century Tools | Jane Meyer | iPads support creativity, collaboration, and digital media creation across elementary schools. Students develop multimedia projects including art, video, and interactive content. | $11,000 |
Joint Middle Schools Grant
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 14 | Rachel’s Challenge | Deanne Hoppe | A school-wide initiative promotes kindness, empathy, and positive culture change. Students and staff engage in activities designed to strengthen relationships and community. | $4,815 |
Minnetonka Middle School East
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 13 | Nooks in the Classroom | Sandy O’Neil | eReaders improve reading engagement and accessibility for middle school students. Technology supports independent reading and literacy growth. | $790 |
| 24 | Advanced Robotics Programming Software LabVIEW | Dawn Sorenson | Robotics software enhances programming and real-time data analysis. Students engage in advanced engineering problem-solving experiences. | $1,251 |
| 38 | Creative and Critical Thinking | Karen Gotz | A composer-in-residence supports student music composition and creativity. Students strengthen critical thinking through collaborative music creation. | $1,600 |
| 57 | Fostering 21st Century Skills in Science | Andrea Hoffman | iPod touch devices support inquiry-based science learning. Students collect and analyze real-time scientific data using digital tools. | $2,360 |
Minnetonka Middle School West
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12 | Virtual Field Trips | Danielle Pittel | Video conferencing enables immersive virtual field trips. Students interact with artists and explore real-world learning experiences. | $5,792 |
| 17 | 21st Century Learning Connections—iPads for Special Ed | Debra Buehler | iPads support individualized instruction for special education students. Apps enhance communication, organization, and learning access. | $3,850 |
| 32 | MMW Student Government Leadership Grades 6-8 | Mary Benson | Leadership programming strengthens student government engagement. Students develop civic responsibility and leadership skills. | $750 |
| 56 | Music Composition: Creative and Critical Thinking | Dan Mollick | Composer-in-residence program supports student music creation. Students develop collaboration and composition skills. | $1,600 |
Minnetonka High School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | Vex Robotics - A Hands on Approach to STEM | Mitch Burfeind | Robotics kits support STEM learning through hands-on engineering challenges. Students design and program functional robots. | $1,540 |
| 6 | Performers in the Classroom | Maggie Pistner | Professional actors enhance English curriculum through live performance. Students engage more deeply with literature and drama. | $3,000 |
| 29 | Final Frontier | Brian Olson | Amateur radio equipment introduces satellite communication and wireless technology. Students pursue licensing and real-world STEM applications. | $1,690 |
| 35 | MHS Legacy Project | Laurie Lokar | Students engage in long-term philanthropy and social change projects. The program fosters leadership and civic engagement. | $1,500 |
| 44 | MHS Math Department goes even Greener | David Surver | Rechargeable batteries reduce waste and support sustainability efforts. Savings are redirected to instructional projects. | $320 |
| 45 | Minnetonka Hydration Station | David Surver | Water bottle filling station promotes hydration and student wellness. Research suggests improved performance with proper hydration. | $1,000 |
| 47 | Portable ‘Smart’ Light Board | Erik Paulson | Advanced lighting system enhances theater productions and performances. Students gain experience with professional-grade technology. | $2,300 |
| 49 | Classroom Jeopardy | Donna Peszek | Interactive game-based learning tool increases engagement and participation. Students reinforce knowledge through competitive review activities. | $963 |
Minnetonka Community Education/Early Childhood and Family Education
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | Community Superhero! | Margaret Coldwell | Early childhood students explore community roles through dramatic play. Activities build understanding of civic responsibility and community helpers. | $750 |
2011-2012
Summary
Total Grants Funded: 56
Total Dollars Awarded: $50,395
Total Dollars Awarded: $50,395
Focus Areas: literacy and reading enrichment, STEM/engineering and inquiry science, digital learning and classroom technology, arts and music enrichment, cultural awareness and multicultural learning, special education supports, student engagement and leadership, global citizenship, and community service learning.
Summary by School
- Clear Springs Elementary — 3 grants — $1,799
- Deephaven Elementary School — 3 grants — $5,760
- Excelsior Elementary School — 8 grants — $8,102
- Groveland Elementary School — 6 grants — $5,033
- Minnewashta Elementary School — 5 grants — $4,342
- Scenic Heights Elementary School — 4 grants — $2,425
- Minnetonka Middle School East — 10 grants — $8,520
- Minnetonka Middle School West — 3 grants — $3,900
- Joint MME & MMW Grant — 1 grant — $1,300
- Minnetonka High School — 11 grants — $7,714
- Minnetonka Community Education/ECFE — 2 grants — $1,500
Clear Springs Elementary
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 30 | Pancakes for Peace y Panquecas por la Paz | Jacqueline Basile | Monthly “Pancakes for Peace” breakfasts will recognize positive student leadership and encourage active bystander behavior to reduce bullying. The program reinforces school culture and positive peer relationships. | $300 |
| 38 | No Shelf Required | Mary Jane Narog | eReaders will be purchased to expand access to high-interest books for all reading levels. The devices support motivation, literacy instruction, and access to updated digital texts. | $700 |
| 80 | SMART Document Camera SDC-330 with Mixed Reality | Deb Drexler | A SMART document camera will enable real-time display of 2D and 3D materials for interactive learning. It enhances engagement through mixed reality content and visual instruction. | $799 |
Deephaven Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | Multi-Cultural Biographies | Malorie Brackamp | Provides multicultural biographies in English and Spanish to support biography instruction. Students learn about diverse contributors while building literacy skills. | $200 |
| 50 | Enhancing Learning through Video | Diane Daniels | Flip cameras allow students to document learning across subjects. Video reflection supports engagement, understanding, and creative expression. | $1,100 |
| 60 | iLearn with iPads | Kelli Whiteside | iPads expand access to differentiated, inquiry-based learning across classrooms. They support collaboration, exploration, and 21st-century skills. | $4,460 |
Excelsior Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12 | Family Culture Fest | Jennifer Kitt | A school-wide cultural celebration promotes global awareness through food, art, and cultural ambassadors. Students and families engage in hands-on multicultural learning. | $1,600 |
| 23 | Book Nooks | Connie Kusche | Barnes & Noble Nooks provide flexible access to leveled reading materials and digital tools. Supports guided reading and independent literacy development. | $1,500 |
| 40 | Motivating | Heather Kohnen | Nooks help struggling readers access appropriately leveled books discreetly. This builds confidence and improves reading proficiency. | $600 |
| 42 | The Nook Hook | Lisa Reisenauer | eReaders support differentiated reading with adjustable text and vocabulary tools. Students build independence and reading confidence. | $1,200 |
| 48 | Science Soar | Brooke Igl | STEM workshops introduce hands-on science experiences across grade levels. Students explore core science concepts through interactive experimentation. | $2,000 |
| 66 | Alpha-Omega: STEM Collaboration | Shane Weber | MHS IB students partner with second graders in inquiry-based science projects. Collaboration includes data collection and multimedia presentations. | $250 |
| 67 | Young Inventor’s Workshops | Amy O’Neill | Students engage in invention-based STEM learning through brainstorming and prototyping. Projects culminate in school and regional fairs. | $638 |
| 89 | Weaving Loom | Sani Glenn | A weaving loom supports Native American art standards and long-term creative projects. Students explore cultural art techniques throughout the year. | $314 |
Groveland Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | Physics Force | Brent Frank | University of Minnesota Physics Force demonstrates engaging physics concepts. Students experience hands-on science demonstrations. | $500 |
| 11 | Extended Learning through Multi-Media Resources | Niki Danou | Provides DVDs and games to support immersion classroom learning. Enhances science, math, and language arts instruction. | $250 |
| 58 | iPad Technology to Motivate 3rd Grade Learners | Amy Gillespie | iPads support differentiated instruction and interactive learning in core subjects. Encourages creativity and critical thinking. | $1,800 |
| 70 | Dance Residency: Multicultural Dance Experience | Christine Denson | Students learn cultural dances and perform for families. Integrates arts, PE, and cultural education. | $1,000 |
| 86 | Kid Wind! | Diane Rundquist | Wind energy kits engage students in clean energy STEM learning. Promotes problem-solving and environmental awareness. | $683 |
| 88 | STEM Academy for Future Scientists | Sara Lovelace | Scientist-led demonstrations build curiosity in science and technology. Students engage in hands-on experimentation. | $800 |
Minnewashta Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | Video Camera for the News | Mabel Crandell | Students create Spanish-language news broadcasts to practice immersion skills. Promotes communication and translation abilities. | $600 |
| 10 | Hi-Lo Library for Struggling Readers | Heidi Schuchman | High-interest, low-reading-level books support struggling readers. Improves fluency and reading engagement. | $600 |
| 28 | Six Traits of Writing Collections | Lynn Kurth | Literature supports instruction in the Six Traits of Writing model. Helps students develop strong writing skills through targeted reading. | $1,042 |
| 52 | National Geography Bee Study Materials | Joy Curran | Provides geography resources to support global awareness and competition preparation. Builds world knowledge and skills. | $500 |
| 79 | Art Room Library and Resource Center | Meghan Byram | Establishes an art resource library for students and teachers. Encourages creativity and deeper engagement in visual arts. | $1,600 |
Scenic Heights Elementary School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9 | Multi-Cultural Award Winning Books | Melinda Barry | Expands multicultural book collections reflecting student diversity. Promotes inclusive literacy experiences. | $500 |
| 24 | Camera for Online Portfolio and Art Advocacy | Jonathan Maki | Digital camera supports student photography portfolios and artistic reflection. Builds communication and creative skills. | $429 |
| 32 | Where’s the Math? | Anita Britton | Board games reinforce mathematical thinking in engaging formats. Students identify math concepts in play. | $396 |
| 46 | Chinese Music Residency | Mary Renz | Students learn Chinese music through a cultural residency program. Culminates in a performance for families. | $1,100 |
Minnetonka Middle School East
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 15 | iPod Touch/iPad for Communication | Joan Lerdal | Supports special education communication through adaptive technology. Improves social interaction and accessibility. | $900 |
| 16 | Seeing Science | Becky Holscher | Flip cameras allow students to document science experiments. Enhances scientific observation and analysis. | $825 |
| 39 | Livescribe Echo Smart Pen for Math Instruction | Kate Ohrt | Smart pens capture instruction and student problem-solving steps. Supports review and differentiated learning. | $510 |
| 55 | Check Out this Video! | Nancy Kennedy | Flip cameras support student-created media projects across subjects. Enhances creativity and communication. | $540 |
| 57 | Science Just Right | Barbara Kalczynski | Provides leveled science materials for ELL students. Supports comprehension of scientific concepts. | $800 |
| 72 | Building Upon a 21st Century Reading Platform | Eva Boyd | Kindles support accessible reading with built-in tools. Helps struggling readers improve fluency and comprehension. | $1,050 |
| 73 | Environmental Inquiry Health Issues Labs Kit | Joan Truettner | Provides hands-on environmental science lab kits. Students explore real-world environmental health issues. | $395 |
| 74 | Making Meaningful Connections with Musicians | Heidi Bunde | Professional musicians provide workshops and master classes. Enhances performance skills and musical understanding. | $1,600 |
| 75 | High Interest/Low Readability Library | Mary Kay Burmesch | Builds engaging reading library for struggling readers. Encourages reading confidence and fluency. | $600 |
| 77 | Around the World with iPads | Gina Nelson | iPads support interactive global studies and virtual learning. Expands access to multimedia resources. | $1,300 |
Minnetonka Middle School West
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Apple iPod Touch Technology in the Classroom | Margaret Ruffino | iPod Touch devices support differentiated literacy instruction. Enhances individualized learning experiences. | $1,200 |
| 20 | Middle School Archery in the Schools | David M. Olson | Archery program integrates academics with physical education and character development. Builds confidence and engagement. | $1,100 |
| 54 | Making Meaningful Connections with Musicians | Laura Berggren | Musicians provide master classes and performance coaching. Supports student growth in music education. | $1,600 |
Joint MME & MMW Grant
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 83 | Minnesota Opera Residency | Joel Gotz | Opera residency introduces students to collaborative performance experiences. Enhances understanding of performing arts. | $1,300 |
Minnetonka High School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | Drama Rehearsal Camera | Bryce Larson | Video system supports theater rehearsal review and feedback. Enhances performance quality for productions. | $470 |
| 6 | Community Service in the Student’s Future | David Olmstead | Provides community service opportunities for students with disabilities. Builds real-world engagement and civic responsibility. | $500 |
| 14 | eBooks for Striving Readers | Stephanie Brondani | eReaders support students reading below grade level. Improves access to appropriate texts and motivation. | $1,192 |
| 17 | Costa Rica Student Research Program | Dawn Norton | Students conduct ecological research in Costa Rica. Includes collaboration and field-based science learning. | $800 |
| 19 | iPads for Autism | Michelle Infanger | iPads support individualized instruction for ASD students. Enhances communication and visual learning. | $1,400 |
| 31 | International Studies Technology | Grant Hendrickson | Technology improves communication with international partners. Supports global exchange learning. | $952 |
| 34 | Technology in ASL | Tracy Washington | Video tools support American Sign Language instruction and portfolio development. Enhances language skill tracking. | $400 |
| 35 | Foundation Science Garden | Gwynneth Wacker | Expands school garden for environmental science learning. Supports cross-age collaboration with elementary students. | $500 |
| 47 | Green Power | David Surver | Rechargeable batteries reduce waste and costs in math department. Promotes environmental sustainability. | $500 |
| 59 | Bit by Bit | Brian Olson | Fitbit devices help SPANS students track health and fitness. Encourages healthy lifestyle awareness. | $800 |
| 61 | LOOK…Communication in Action | Kathryn Wipperling | Video recording supports communication skill development. Helps special education students improve social interaction. | $200 |
Minnetonka Community Education / ECFE
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 26 | Out of the Box Science Kits | Mary Babcock / Karen Hoffner / Terri Root | Science kits support hands-on preschool STEM learning. Builds early scientific thinking and problem-solving. | $1,000 |
| 56 | Together We Create | Terri Root | Community mural project builds collaboration among learners. Celebrates diversity and shared creativity. | $500 |
2010-2011
Summary
A total of 47 grants were awarded across the district, totaling $42,462 in funding.
Focus areas include:
-
Literacy and reading enrichment
-
STEM, science, and environmental learning
-
Technology integration (iPads, iTouch, Kindles, video tools)
-
Arts, music, and cultural experiences
-
Social-emotional learning and special education supports
-
Global citizenship and social studies enrichment
-
Community service and leadership development
Summary by School
- Clear Springs Elementary — 2 grants — $1,049
- Deephaven Elementary — 2 grants — $1,900
- Excelsior Elementary — 8 grants — $7,088
- Groveland Elementary — 3 grants — $2,263
- Minnewashta Elementary — 2 grants — $1,950
- Scenic Heights Elementary — 11 grants — $11,935
- Minnetonka Middle School East — 6 grants — $5,987
- Minnetonka Middle School West — 2 grants — $2,500
- Multi-School — 2 grants — $730
- Minnetonka High School — 6 grants — $4,460
- Early Childhood Family Education — 1 grant — $1,300
- Early Childhood Special Education — 1 grant — $800
- Transition Plus Program — 1 grant — $500
Clear Springs Elementary
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 35 | Abraham Lincoln Book Collection | Connie Moret | Provides leveled print and digital resources for a guided research unit on Abraham Lincoln. Supports differentiated instruction for third-grade students. | $450 |
| 55 | Steve Jobs Would Be Impressed! | Melanie DeWitt | Funds iPad technology to enhance engagement and access to interactive learning applications. Supports flexible instruction across classroom settings. | $599 |
Deephaven Elementary
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 32 | Book Club in a Bag | Kelli Whiteside | Provides book club kits with discussion materials to support literacy and family engagement. | $900 |
| 43 | Collaboration Sensation | Janetta Gong | Supplies leveled nonfiction texts for Spanish immersion content-area reading support. | $1,000 |
Excelsior Elementary
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12 | Introduce Abacus to Math Learning | Ming Yan | Introduces abacus tools to strengthen foundational math skills through hands-on learning. | $1,000 |
| 27 | World Cultures Day | Susan Nickle | Provides cultural presentations promoting global citizenship and awareness. | $1,000 |
| 28 | Science with a Touch of Green | Shane Weber | Connects students with high school mentors for environmental science experiments. | $622 |
| 29 | Minnesota Center for Book Arts Experience | Catherine Harding | Engages students in hands-on bookmaking, printing, and binding activities. | $1,000 |
| 37 | Buzzing About the National Geography Bee! | Amy O’Neill | Supports geography learning and global awareness through competition materials. | $470 |
| 53 | Primary Reading Enrichment | Diane Rundquist | Provides enriched reading materials for advanced comprehension and critical thinking. | $500 |
| 57 | Essential Learnings in Literature | Heidi Hammerback | Funds novel sets and nonfiction materials for enhanced literacy instruction. | $500 |
| 58 | 21st Century Libraries | Colleen Small | Integrates iPads and digital tools to support modern literacy and learning. | $1,996 |
Groveland Elementary
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9 | Cooking, Culture and Procedural Writing | Gretchen Ruble & Jen Scholz | Spanish immersion cooking unit integrates procedural writing and cultural learning experiences. | $450 |
| 10 | Small Video Camera for Social Thinking | Trica Wollan | Uses video modeling to support social skill development and self-monitoring for students. | $388 |
| 11 | Science, Mathematics and Technology Exploration | Sara Lovelace | Provides STEM experiences guided by a scientist using hands-on experimentation. | $1,425 |
Minnewashta Elementary
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 59 | Teatro del Pueblo Residency | Amanda Zamilpa | Supports Spanish language learning and cultural immersion through theater residency. | $1,450 |
| 61 | Paws to R.E.A.D. | Jennifer Hicks | Improves reading fluency by allowing students to read to therapy dogs. | $500 |
Scenic Heights Elementary
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 14 | WhisperPhones for Chinese Immersion Students | Yuanjing Xue | Enhances phonemic awareness and language acquisition in Chinese immersion classrooms. | $1,050 |
| 16 | Interactive and Visual Tool for the ELLs | Tatyana Fridman | Provides visual and digital tools to support English language learners. | $289 |
| 18 | I’m Learning to Speak Another Language! | Melinda Barry | Introduces students to multiple languages and cultural exposure resources. | $320 |
| 19 | Keyboards for Little Fingers | Melinda Barry | Supplies child-friendly keyboards to support early typing and computer skills. | $664 |
| 20 | Click and Share! | Melinda Barry | Uses video technology to enhance communication and authentic learning experiences. | $780 |
| 26 | Leading Children to Love Reading | Jeanne Krake | Supports transition to chapter books and builds independent reading confidence. | $449 |
| 40 | Get Growing in First Grade | Lisa Roddy | Expands hands-on plant science learning through GrowLab activities. | $650 |
| 44 | iTouch | Kirsten Pederson | Uses mobile devices to reinforce math, vocabulary, and organization skills. | $2,000 |
| 48 | Literacy Through Quality Literature and Technology | Lori Anderson | Uses Tag Reading System to improve reading fluency and comprehension. | $1,275 |
| 50 | Greenhouse | Sandy Katkov | Provides experiential learning through an outdoor greenhouse program. | $3,000 |
| 52 | Musical Instruments Around the World | Mary Renz | Introduces global instruments to support multicultural music education. | $1,458 |
Minnetonka Middle School East
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5 | Student Slates | Rebeccah MacDougal | Uses dry erase boards to increase student engagement and real-time feedback. | $185 |
| 6 | Tales From Shakespeare | Kim Folkers | Introduces Shakespeare through accessible adaptations for middle school students. | $850 |
| 21/22/51 | Global Understanding Through Historical Reading | Carson Hoeft, Mary Fenwick, Matt Lichty | Provides high-interest historical texts supporting global awareness and literacy. | $1,500 |
| 24 | Seeing is Believing! | Amy Bieber | Uses video feedback to improve self-awareness and behavior in students. | $742 |
| 25 | Diary of Anne Frank Drama Immersion Day | Liz McKeone | Provides immersive theater experience to deepen Holocaust understanding. | $2,000 |
| 41 | Reading Frindle on a Kindle | Bart Meath | Uses Kindle technology to support struggling readers and increase engagement. | $710 |
Minnetonka Middle School West
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 31 | Beyond November 5th – Service to Others | Deanne Hoppe | Expands student service learning and civic engagement opportunities. | $1,500 |
| 49 | House of the Scorpion for Honors Science | Shelly Traver | Connects science fiction literature with genetics and ethical discussions. | $1,000 |
Minnetonka High School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | School Success Group for 9th Graders | Jill Walker | Builds academic skills and confidence for incoming high school students. | $300 |
| 15 | Auditory Learners Plugged In | Melissa Hanson | Provides auditory support tools for special education learners. | $480 |
| 17 | Community Service in the Student’s Future | David Olmstead | Promotes community service participation for transition program students. | $1,000 |
| 38 | Garden Beds for Science Learning | Gwynneth Wacker | Supports cross-grade environmental science learning through garden beds. | $930 |
| 42 | 12G Economics Course Simulations | Tami Hill-Washington | Uses stock market simulations to teach real-world economics. | $500 |
| 56 | First Mate Fall Training | Mary Kuhn | Trains student leaders to support freshman transition and mentoring. | $1,250 |
Early Childhood Family Education
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 33 | Early Childhood Author Visit – Family Night | Margaret Coldwell / Linda Morantez | Promotes family literacy through author engagement event. | $1,300 |
Early Childhood Special Education
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | Early Childhood Special Ed Family Resources | Mary Bloom | Provides home learning materials and strengthens family-school partnerships. | $800 |
Transition Plus Program
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8 | Painting Mentor Program | Lisa Loeding | Supports artistic mentorship and collaboration for students with disabilities. | $500 |
2009-2010
Summary
The 2009–10 Teacher Grants cycle includes 43 total grants awarded across 10 schools, totaling $36,336 in funding.
Primary focus areas: literacy and reading intervention, STEM and hands-on science, educational technology, social-emotional learning and behavior supports, arts integration, music enrichment, kinesthetic learning and movement-based seating, cultural awareness and global studies, assessment tools, and community service learning.
Summary by School
-
Clear Springs Elementary — 5 grants — $4,079
- Deephaven Elementary — 3 grants — $1,730
- Excelsior Elementary — 5 grants — $3,441
- Groveland Elementary — 2 grants — $1,074
- Minnewashta Elementary — 3 grants — $2,125
- Scenic Heights Elementary — 8 grants — $5,872
- Minnetonka Middle School East — 2 grants — $1,785
- Minnetonka Middle School West — 2 grants — $2,400
- Minnetonka High School — 12 grants — $13,650
- Minnetonka Community Education Services (MCES) — 1 grant — $180
Clear Springs Elementary
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 39 | Anchor Alcove | Joan Larson | Creates a calming support space for students who struggle in unstructured settings. The room includes games, puzzles, books, and sensory supports to help students regulate emotions and rebuild readiness for learning. | $1,000 |
| 58 | Digital Storytelling | Mary Jane Narog | Provides video equipment to support student and teacher-created digital storytelling. Students use video to demonstrate learning, build collaboration skills, and engage in higher-order thinking through multimedia projects. | $579 |
| 51 | Linking Literature to Learning in Content Area | Anne Holmberg | Integrates literature-based author studies into content areas to deepen understanding and engagement. Supports differentiated instruction through leveled texts that connect directly to curriculum themes. | $1,000 |
| 2 | Native American Dance Residency | Connie Kensinger | Brings a dance residency to deepen fifth grade understanding of Native American culture. Students engage in creative movement as a form of cultural learning and expression. | $500 |
| 34 | SUPERFLEX Social Thinking Kit | Kelly Phillips | Implements a structured social thinking curriculum for students with behavioral and learning challenges. Uses engaging superhero-based materials to teach self-regulation and social awareness skills. | $1,000 |
Deephaven Elementary
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 57 | Music Empowering the Classroom | Sheri Simpson | Uses music and sound equipment to enhance engagement and transitions in daily instruction. Playlists are aligned to lessons to support focus, brain breaks, and classroom climate. | $400 |
| 3 | Primary Reading Enrichment | Kay Ost | Provides advanced reading materials for high-performing primary students. Encourages deeper comprehension and continued growth through appropriately challenging texts. | $830 |
| 42 | Video/DVDs for Art Education | Kathy Williamson | Adds visual media resources to strengthen art instruction through observation and reflection. Supports student expression and understanding of visual concepts through multimedia learning. | $500 |
Excelsior Elementary
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 46 | Alpha Omega Science Project | Shane Weber | Connects elementary students with high school seniors through shared science learning experiences. Builds mentorship while introducing scientific inquiry and experimentation. | $740 |
| 50 | Social Skills Superstars | Lisa Rischmiller | Expands social-emotional learning resources for early elementary students. Uses games, music, and role-play to teach self-control, empathy, and cooperation. | $1,000 |
| 31 | The Write Brothers Writing Club | Tim Ketel | Establishes a boys’ writing club to improve engagement and confidence in writing. Encourages peer collaboration and enjoyment through informal writing practice. | $601 |
| 1 | Video/DVDs for Art Education | Sani Glenn | Provides video-based art instruction materials to support visual learning. Helps students better observe, interpret, and discuss artistic concepts. | $500 |
| 55 | World Cultures Day | Brooke Igl, Elizabeth Frye | Brings multicultural speakers into classrooms to broaden global awareness. Students explore traditions, geography, and culture through interactive learning experiences. | $600 |
Groveland Elementary
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 69 | Bike Power Generator | Brent Frank | Uses a bicycle-powered generator to explore electricity generation concepts. Students investigate energy production and real-world applications through hands-on experimentation. | $670 |
| 59 | Weather Station | Patti Berger | Implements a schoolwide weather station to support data collection and science learning. Students analyze real environmental data to strengthen math and science skills. | $404 |
Minnewashta Elementary
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 63 | Air Powered Rockets | Mike Borgendale | Enhances STEM learning through hands-on rocket design and launch activities. Students apply engineering and physics concepts including force, motion, and measurement. | $1,000 |
| 38 | Audio Books in Spanish | Mabel Crandell | Supports Spanish immersion students with audio literacy resources. Reinforces pronunciation, fluency, and language acquisition through listening exposure. | $500 |
| 35 | Fluency Formula Kits | Kelly Hanson | Targets reading fluency growth for struggling third-grade readers. Provides structured intervention tools and ongoing progress monitoring. | $625 |
Scenic Heights Elementary
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9 | Airwalker and Steamroller Learning Tools | Rachel Bowman | Provides sensory equipment for students with significant emotional and behavioral needs. Supports regulation, motor planning, and sensory integration in specialized settings. | $1,231 |
| 29 | Bringing Manipulatives to Life | Jolene Fujitake | Uses document cameras to enhance early math and literacy instruction. Helps students understand abstract concepts through visual manipulation of concrete materials. | $1,538 |
| 28 | Celebrations Around the World | Melinda Barry | Expands cultural awareness through diverse literature representing global communities. Encourages understanding and appreciation of student diversity. | $215 |
| 37 | Chinese Calligraphy and Painting Experience | Yuanjing Xue | Introduces students to traditional Chinese art forms through hands-on materials. Builds cultural appreciation and artistic skill development. | $645 |
| 27 | Guys Read | Melinda Barry | Promotes reading engagement among boys through high-interest book selections. Encourages lifelong reading habits through targeted media center resources. | $500 |
| 47 | Hatching a Baby Shark | Lisa Roddy | Provides a live marine life experience connected to science curriculum. Engages students in life cycle study through hands-on observation. | $1,250 |
| 30 | Primary Keyboards | Melinda Barry | Supplies ergonomically designed keyboards for early learners. Improves access and usability of classroom technology for young students. | $403 |
| 8 | Toobaloo Whisper Phones | Sarah Stephan | Supports reading fluency through auditory feedback tools. Helps students strengthen decoding and comprehension skills during independent reading. | $90 |
Minnetonka Middle School East
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 17 | Non-fiction Reading and Writing | Nicole Berwanger | Expands access to high-interest nonfiction texts to improve literacy skills. Encourages reading and writing connections aligned with assessment needs. | $1,000 |
| 65 | Tales From Shakespeare | Kathleen Terhaar | Introduces students to Shakespeare through accessible adaptations and creative writing activities. Builds literary understanding through reading, performance, and writing exercises. | $785 |
Minnetonka Middle School West
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 19 | MMW School Wide Community Service Day | Jeanine Adair | Engages students in districtwide service learning activities. Builds civic responsibility through community engagement and volunteer experiences. | $1,000 |
| 24 | Stand Up For Learning | Mitchell Elvebak | Introduces standing desks to improve student focus and movement during learning. Supports engagement and attention through active classroom environments. | $1,400 |
Minnetonka High School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 40 | Art Work Banners for Water Street Excelsior | Paul Olson | Displays student artwork in public spaces to celebrate arts education. Builds community engagement and pride in student creativity. | $2,000 |
| 15 | Buzzer System | Sonja Labs | Enhances formative assessment through interactive review games. Increases student participation and engagement in large classes. | $750 |
| 62 | Chemistry Atomsmith Classroom | Sean Holmes | Uses 3D modeling software to support chemistry instruction. Helps students visualize complex molecular and atomic structures. | $1,950 |
| 11 | Community Service in the Student’s Future | David Olmstead | Provides service learning opportunities for students with disabilities. Builds lifelong civic engagement through community-based experiences. | $1,000 |
| 13 | Finance Park | Mandy Kasowicz | Offers real-world financial literacy simulations through Junior Achievement. Teaches budgeting and economic decision-making skills. | $650 |
| 5 | Freshman Re-Ignite | Mary Kuhn | Supports freshman transition with midyear reflection and goal-setting activities. Reinforces academic habits and school engagement. | $1,500 |
| 18 | Headphones for Audacity | Susan Sinkler | Supports oral assessment and language practice using recording software. Enhances feedback and communication skills in multiple courses. | $1,400 |
| 44 | JSTOR Online Database | Kelly Mosiman | Provides access to scholarly research databases for student inquiry. Strengthens academic research and writing across disciplines. | $1,750 |
| 53 | Online Science Lab Simulations | Kim Hoehne | Offers virtual lab experiences to reinforce science concepts. Allows practice and assessment of experimental understanding. | $900 |
| 21 | Promoting a Positive School Climate | Sonia Warmuth | Supports student belonging and social-emotional development through group programming. Builds confidence, inclusion, and community engagement. | $700 |
| 16 | School Success Group for 9th Graders | Jill Walker | Provides academic and social support for transitioning freshmen. Focuses on study skills, goal setting, and self-advocacy. | $250 |
| 60 | Segway Demonstration of Newton’s 2nd Law | Suzanne Lantham | Demonstrates physics concepts through real-world Segway application. Enhances student understanding of Newton’s Laws through experiential learning. | $800 |
Minnetonka Community Education Services (MCES)
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 25 | Headphones for ELL | Angie McMullen | Provides audio support tools for adult English language learners. Enhances listening comprehension and language acquisition. | $180 |
2008-2009
Summary
Total number of grants: 44
Total awarded dollars: $53,295
Focus Areas
- Literacy & reading intervention (guided reading, audiobooks, transitional literature)
- STEM & science inquiry (software, lab tools, observation technologies)
- Arts & music enrichment (dance residencies, instruments, choir/band support)
- Physical wellness & movement-based learning (stability balls, DDR, yoga seating)
- Social-emotional learning & behavior supports (Nurtured Heart Approach, social skills programs)
- Technology integration (cameras, SMARTboard tools, software systems)
- Cultural competency & global education (multicultural programs, language/culture studies)
- Community engagement & service learning (service days, senior partnerships, civic projects)
Summary by School
| School | # Grants | Total Awarded |
|---|---|---|
| Clear Springs Elementary | 2 | $2,880 |
| Deephaven Elementary | 3 | $7,300 |
| Excelsior Elementary | 7 | $5,338 |
| Groveland Elementary | 4 | $4,694 |
| Minnewashta Elementary | 2 | $2,820 |
| Scenic Heights Elementary | 6 | $6,421 |
| Minnetonka Middle School East | 5 | $3,350 |
| Minnetonka Middle School West | 5 | $5,855 |
| Minnetonka High School | 10 | $14,637 |
Clear Springs Elementary
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 11 | Native American Dance Residency | Connie Kensinger | Fifth graders explore Native American culture through a dance and creative movement residency led by Elizabeth Rick. Students deepen cultural understanding through embodied learning experiences. | $780 |
| 31 | Rock and Roll Classroom | Dawn Sailer | Uses iPods, sound docks, and curated playlists to support instruction, transitions, and brain breaks. Designed to increase engagement and create a positive learning environment through music. | $2,100 |
Deephaven Elementary
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 33 | District Audiobook Collection | Kelli Whiteside | Provides Playaway audiobooks for grades 4–8 to support reading development and accessibility. Helps struggling and advanced readers engage with age-appropriate content. | $4,800 |
| 42 | 3rd Grade Flex Cameras | Liz Rinaldi | Introduces video technology for science observation of living organisms and habitats. Enhances inquiry-based learning and visual analysis in science units. | $1,500 |
| 50 | The Nurtured Heart Approach to Teaching | Susan Bonnema, Julie Hines | Implements a structured behavior intervention system to support students with challenging behaviors. Aims to improve academic outcomes and classroom climate through certified coaching. | $1,000 |
Excelsior Elementary
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20 | Whisper Phones | Jeri Braun | Provides voice-amplification tools to support phonemic awareness and reading development. Used across early intervention and special education settings. | $600 |
| 21 | Yoga Balls as Chairs | Carrie Foster | Replaces traditional seating with stability balls to improve focus, posture, and engagement. Supports students with attention challenges. | $240 |
| 22 | Content Reading Materials for Book Room | Carrie Foster | Expands nonfiction guided reading resources across core subjects. Supports differentiated instruction in literacy and content areas. | $500 |
| 25 | History of Us | Mark Garrison | Provides classroom sets of U.S. history texts for enriched instruction and guided reading. Supports social studies curriculum for all 5th graders. | $1,174 |
| 27 | Bouncing to Success | Tim Ketel | Uses stability balls to increase student movement, focus, and core strength. Integrates physical activity into classroom learning. | $324 |
| 53 | World Cultures Day | Brooke Igl, Elizabeth Murphy | Brings international speakers to classrooms to teach global cultures across three continents. Builds cultural awareness and global citizenship. | $2,000 |
| 57 | Clay Tile Mural Project | Sani Glenn | Funds a schoolwide ceramic mural project to promote creativity and school pride. Creates a lasting visual community art installation. | $500 |
Groveland Elementary
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12 | Readers’ Theater | Sara Lovelace | Supports fluency and comprehension through scripted reading activities. Differentiates instruction for varied reading levels. | $825 |
| 15 | Senior Citizen Service Learning Project | Sara Lovelace | Connects students with seniors through ongoing visits, crafts, and interviews. Builds community engagement and character education. | $400 |
| 19 | Benchmark Assessment System | Anne Redfern | Implements standardized reading assessment tools across elementary schools. Improves instructional placement and consistency. | $3,000 |
| 40 | The Art of Recycling: Handmade Paper | Jane Meyer | Teaches sustainability through hands-on recycled paper-making art lessons. Integrates environmental science and creativity. | $469 |
Minnewashta Elementary
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 | DDR – Dance Dance Revolution | Sarah Becher | Uses interactive dance technology to improve fitness and coordination in PE classes. Encourages active engagement through movement-based learning. | $2,500 |
| 16 | Stability Balls | Joy Curran | Provides alternative seating for high-potential students to support focus and physical engagement. Promotes posture and attention skills. | $320 |
Scenic Heights Elementary
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Reflecting Cultural Diversity Through Literature | Melinda Barry | Expands multicultural book collection to reflect student diversity. Supports inclusive representation in literature. | $500 |
| 14 | Dance Dance Revolution | Denise Malarkey | Integrates fitness-based gaming into PE curriculum to improve coordination and engagement. Encourages active learning. | $2,400 |
| 29 | Chinese Books for English Classrooms | Anita Britton | Adds culturally relevant books for a Chinese immersion school community. Builds cross-cultural understanding. | $268 |
| 32 | Second Steps Social Skills Program | Angie Elliott | Implements structured social-emotional curriculum to improve student behavior and problem-solving skills. | $1,163 |
| 51 | Let’s Get “On the Ball” | Katie Tuthill | Introduces stability balls for classroom seating to improve attention and movement. Supports active learning environments. | $540 |
| 60 | GeoCaching Outdoor Learning Center | Dawn Christesen | Uses GPS-based geocaching to integrate outdoor experiential learning across subjects. Promotes interdisciplinary engagement. | $1,550 |
Minnetonka Middle School East
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 | Literature to Bridge the Gap | Kim Folkers | Expands reading materials for diverse reading levels and interests. Supports transitional literacy growth. | $500 |
| 5 | Literature to Bridge the Gap | Nicole Berwanger | Provides differentiated reading resources for 6th grade learners. Encourages engagement with varied literature. | $500 |
| 26 | Literature to Bridge the Gap | Liz McKeone | Supplies higher-level and interest-based reading materials for 8th grade students. Supports advanced literacy development. | $500 |
| 35 | Middle Ages, Renaissance & Reformation | Jim Pekarek | Provides historical reference materials for medieval studies curriculum. Enhances social studies enrichment. | $905 |
| 41 | Living Organisms Software | Joan Truettner | Offers interactive science simulations for biology instruction. Enhances safe lab experimentation and concept mastery. | $945 |
Minnetonka Middle School West
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9 | Cyber Education Software | Shelly Traver | Provides interactive science software covering major life science topics. Supports collaborative learning and concept mastery. | $1,230 |
| 23 | Community Service Day | Matt Sell, Ginger Mulcrone | Funds district-wide service learning experiences including food packing and community outreach. Builds civic responsibility. | $2,500 |
| 24 | District Choral Festival with Cantus | Jennifer Evenson | Brings professional vocal ensemble coaching to district choirs. Enhances musical performance and collaboration. | $2,500 |
| 30 | Reading & Writing in Middle School | Margaret Ruffino | Supports differentiated literacy instruction through writing workshop resources. Expands student writing opportunities. | $840 |
| 56 | Boomwhackers Percussion Tubes | Carol Carlson | Introduces colorful percussion instruments to teach rhythm and music theory. Increases engagement in music education. | $285 |
Minnetonka High School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | Psychology & Sociology Enrichment | Heidi Thomas | Funds lab-based learning experiences in psychology and sociology courses. Enhances applied understanding of concepts. | $500 |
| 7 | School Success Group | Jill Walker | Supports freshman transition through study skills and academic coaching. Builds student confidence and organization. | $350 |
| 18 | Math SMARTboard Data Collectors | Tim Sauer | Adds lab tools for real-time scientific data collection in math instruction. Strengthens applied mathematical analysis. | $1,884 |
| 28 | Community Service in Student’s Future | David Olmstead | Provides community-based service learning for students with disabilities. Builds real-world civic engagement. | $1,500 |
| 36 | Speakers for IB Economics & AP Politics | Chris Pears | Brings professional speakers into advanced social studies courses. Connects curriculum to real-world practice. | $800 |
| 45 | Instrumental Music Conductor Residency | Miles Mortensen | Funds visiting conductor to work with high school bands on advanced performance. Enhances musical interpretation skills. | $1,500 |
| 49 | Freshman 180 Tour | Mary Kuhn | Provides motivational program featuring a Columbine survivor speaker. Supports freshman success and resilience. | $3,000 |
| 55 | Writing Center Upgrade | Maggie Shea | Creates private conferencing space for student writing support. Improves instructional feedback environment. | $2,400 |
| 58 | Alpha Omega Science Project | Gwynneth Wacker | Partners high school IB students with elementary students for science teaching collaboration. Builds mentorship and communication skills. | $1,263 |
| 64 | IB Classroom Digital Cameras | Jan Nelson | Provides cameras for IB visual arts documentation. Supports portfolio development and assessment requirements. | $1,440 |
2007-2008
Summary
This report includes 45 teacher grants totaling $47,238 in awarded funding.
Across all schools, grants supported major focus areas including literacy and reading intervention, STEM and science enrichment, arts and music programming, student wellness and fitness, technology integration, social-emotional learning, multicultural education, special education supports, leadership development, and community engagement initiatives.
Summary by School
- Clear Springs Elementary — 5 grants — $3,645
- Deephaven Elementary — 6 grants — $5,418
- Excelsior Elementary — 2 grants — $1,520
- Groveland Elementary — 6 grants — $3,030
- Minnewashta Elementary — 3 grants — $5,020
- Scenic Heights Elementary — 3 grants — $3,140
- Minnetonka Middle School East — 2 grants — $1,780
- Minnetonka Middle School West — 6 grants — $6,161
- Minnetonka High School — 10 grants — $16,274
- District Education Center — 1 grant — $1,000
- Minnetonka Community Education — 1 grant — $250
Clear Springs Elementary
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #6 | Native American Dance Residency | Connie Kensinger | Fifth graders explore Native American culture through dance and creative movement led by a visiting artist. The residency deepens cultural understanding through experiential learning tied to classroom study. | $520 |
| #17 | Minnetonka Book Award | Mary Jane Narog | Elementary media specialists create a student-selected book award program to promote reading engagement. Students nominate and vote on titles reflecting diverse perspectives and positive character themes. | $825 |
| #30 | Peace Prize Festival | Connie Moret, Sandy Curry | A multimedia artist helps students create and perform an original peace-themed song for a regional festival. The project connects global awareness, music, and student outreach. | $800 |
| #41 | Clear Springs Science Center Kits | Andy Lundheim | First-grade classrooms receive hands-on science kits to support weekly inquiry-based learning. The kits strengthen engagement in foundational science concepts. | $500 |
| #65 | Healthy Snacks for Healthy Students | JoAnne Robinson, Curt Carpenter | Supports after-school programming with healthy snacks for students in community-based enrichment. The program promotes wellness and family engagement. | $1,000 |
Deephaven Elementary
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #27 | Tucker Signing Strategies for Decoding | Sue Dunn, Susan Bonnema, Julie Hines | Introduces hand-sign decoding strategies to support reading development, especially for special education students. The approach reinforces phonics through kinesthetic learning. | $235 |
| #38 | Dance Dance Revolution (DDR) | Bart Inniger | Integrates interactive fitness gaming into PE curriculum to improve coordination and cardiovascular health. Students engage in structured physical activity through movement-based gameplay. | $2,300 |
| #39 | Graphic Library Books for Media Center | Peter Gausmann | Provides graphic-style nonfiction books to engage reluctant readers in science and history. The visual format supports comprehension and reading motivation. | $650 |
| #40 | Schools of Fish! Books | Ryan Johnson | Provides staff with classroom management resources focused on engagement and motivation strategies. Teachers apply shared principles to improve school culture and learning environments. | $823 |
| #56 | All Families Matter | Connie Keefe | A diversity-focused program helping students understand and respect different family structures and cultures. It promotes belonging, empathy, and inclusion across the school. | $610 |
| #57 | Read Naturally | Karl Boberg | Expands reading fluency intervention for at-risk upper elementary students using a research-based program. Volunteer-supported instruction reinforces comprehension and fluency skills. | $800 |
Excelsior Elementary
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #2 | Reading Fluency Resources | Julie Schneider | Expands Read Naturally resources to support reading fluency and home-school connection. Parents are trained to reinforce student progress at home. | $1,100 |
| #3 | Clay Ware Cart | Sani Glenn | Provides a centralized storage and transport system for student clay projects. The cart improves organization and reduces breakage in art activities. | $420 |
Groveland Elementary
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #7 | Scientist in Residence | Niki Danou, Mary Kolstad, Sara Lovelace, Katie O’Kane | Brings hands-on science experiences into second-grade classrooms through visiting scientists. Students engage in inquiry aligned with curriculum units. | $864 |
| #11 | Concentration Conundrum | Catherine Ost | Provides fitness balls to support focus and engagement for kinesthetic learners. The tools improve attention and classroom participation. | $160 |
| #61 | Generation Project: How Has Technology Changed? | Brent Frank | Students collaborate across grade levels to document oral histories about technological change. The project builds digital storytelling and interview skills. | $456 |
| #62 | Physics Force | Brent Frank | Brings an interactive science outreach program to expose students to physical science concepts. Students learn through demonstrations and live experimentation. | $300 |
| #63 | Solar Energy Project | Brent Frank | Supports research into renewable energy and long-term solar installation planning. Students explore sustainability and real-world energy solutions. | $450 |
| #66 | Composers in Residence | Seth Boyd | Students collaborate with composers to create a music-and-dance program tied to curriculum. The project produces a lasting performance piece for future classes. | $800 |
Minnewashta Elementary
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #4 | Mathematics Professional Library | Liz Meyers and team | Provides math professional resources to support instructional planning and PLC work. Teachers use materials to strengthen differentiated math instruction. | $1,280 |
| #45 | Mobile Speech/Language and Assisted Writing Labs | Katherine Duncan, Amber Greves, Tanya McCarthy | Introduces laptops and software to support speech, language, and writing development in special education. The tools increase classroom inclusion and independence. | $2,740 |
| #64 | Halls of Excellence Mural Series | Melanie Casiday | Creates collaborative mural panels involving students across grade levels and subjects. The project promotes interdisciplinary artistic expression and school pride. | $1,000 |
Scenic Heights Elementary
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #8 | Scenic Heights Reading Resource Room | Kristen Pederson | Builds a shared reading resource collection to support differentiated instruction. Students access leveled materials matched to their reading needs. | $1,000 |
| #26 | Wetlands Watch Program | Mike Hoffman, Dawn Christesen | Provides field-based wetland science learning with a naturalist consultant. Students study biodiversity and environmental systems through hands-on experiences. | $1,700 |
| #59 | Kids Around the World | Jennifer Cho | After-school multicultural program supporting identity, confidence, and inclusion. Students explore diversity and share learning with peers. | $440 |
Minnetonka Middle School East
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #24 | Classroom Listening Library | Kathleen Terhaar | Provides audio books and CD players to support struggling and ESL readers. Students use listening tools to build comprehension and engagement. | $1,225 |
| #28 | Viruses and Monerans-Neo Lab | Joan Truettner, Terrence McCarthy, Deb Buehler | Offers virtual lab experiences on microbiology for 7th grade science. Students conduct simulations not possible in traditional labs. | $555 |
Minnetonka Middle School West
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #5 | Musser Vibraphone | Erik Christianson | Adds a vibraphone to enhance band and jazz instruction. The instrument expands percussion learning opportunities across ensembles. | $2,102 |
| #12 | All-School Community Service Day | Ginger Chambers, Jennifer Evenson | Engages all students in community service across metro-area sites. The project builds civic responsibility and teamwork. | $1,750 |
| #16 | HANG-Time | Peggy Markham | After-school enrichment program supporting academic, social, and emotional growth. Students develop leadership through student-led activities. | $750 |
| #19 | Organization Bootcamp | Paula Erbisch | Teaches organization and academic success strategies to middle school students. The program improves homework completion and study habits. | $750 |
| #25 | Ancient Civilization Celebration | Mary Benson, Mary Victor | Provides immersive cultural experiences tied to ancient civilizations curriculum. Students engage in food, music, dance, and artifacts. | $400 |
| #34 | Clicker 5 Writing Proposal | Carrie Fjerstad | Supports special education writing through assistive software. Students gain independence in written expression using digital tools. | $409 |
Minnetonka High School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #20 | School Success Group | Jill Walker, Keri Miller | Supports ninth graders transitioning to high school through academic skill-building. Focus includes organization, study skills, and time management. | $350 |
| #29 | Fine Woodworking Tools | Matthew Kudas | Provides tools for theater students to develop woodworking and technical production skills. Expands hands-on arts learning opportunities. | $1,054 |
| #31 | Get Connected – Junior Workshop | Mary Kuhn | Large-scale workshop addressing peer pressure, leadership, and character development for juniors. Students participate in structured guidance and mentoring. | $3,600 |
| #32 | Psychology & Sociology Course Enrichment Grant | Heidi Thomas | Enhances psychology and sociology courses through speakers and experiential labs. Students explore real-world applications of social science concepts. | $1,040 |
| #33 | MHS Career Center Resources | Pam Humphrey | Updates career center materials supporting post-secondary planning. Resources assist students and families in career exploration. | $500 |
| #36 | Samsung Digital 850 DX Cameras | Tim Moen | Provides digital cameras for use across art courses for instruction and demonstration. Enhances visual learning and digital art integration. | $3,300 |
| #44 | E & M Lab Equipment | Donna Peszek | Supplies physics lab equipment for electricity and magnetism experiments. Supports hands-on STEM learning for all physics students. | $2,776 |
| #49 | Student Response System – Physics/Science | Kim Hoehne | Implements real-time student response technology for formative assessment. Improves engagement and instructional differentiation. | $2,154 |
| #51 | Student Connection/Get Connected | Mary Beth Medwid | Supports student transition and connection programs for new and exchange students. Strengthens social integration and school engagement. | $1,000 |
| #52 | Negative Scanner for Art Photography | Lester Hughes-Seamans | Adds scanning technology for black-and-white photography students. Expands digital workflow and creative production opportunities. | $500 |
District Education Center
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #53 | Stories Alive! | Kari Palmer, Shari Lasser | Supports early childhood literacy through interactive storytelling and recording. Enhances pre-literacy and family engagement. | $1,000 |
Minnetonka Community Education
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #60 | Summer Youth Volunteer Program | Meg Low | Pilot program promoting youth volunteerism and civic engagement. Students build leadership and community awareness through service learning. | $250 |
2006-2007
Summary
Total Number of Grants: 38
Total Dollars Awarded: $36,362
Total Dollars Awarded: $36,362
Focus Areas:
- Literacy & Reading Intervention
- Science, Math & STEM Enrichment
- Technology Integration & Digital Tools
- Social-Emotional Learning & Student Support
- Arts, Music & Performing Arts Enrichment
- Cultural Awareness & Global Learning
- Student Leadership & School Climate
- Special Education & Intervention Services
Summary by School
- Minnetonka High School — 8 grants — $11,949
- Clear Springs Elementary — 3 grants — $2,817
- Deephaven Elementary — 5 grants — $2,482
- Groveland Elementary — 3 grants — $2,884
- Excelsior Elementary — 3 grants — $2,085
- Minnewashta Elementary — 1 grant — $1,500
- Scenic Heights Elementary — 6 grants — $7,703
- Minnetonka Middle School East — 4 grants — $3,057
- Minnetonka Middle School West — 5 grants — $5,700
- District Education Center — 2 grants — $1,750
Minnetonka High School
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | Psychology & Sociology Course Enrichment Grant | Heidi Thomas | Speakers and lab demonstrations enhance Psychology and Sociology courses, reinforcing concepts like cognition, perception, and social stratification for over 600 students. | $1,204 |
| #2 | 9th Grade Respect Retreat | Barb Sherman | A full-day retreat for the entire 9th grade builds respect, unity, and leadership through senior mentoring and structured activities focused on school climate. | $2,500 |
| #22 | Student Connection | Mary Beth Medwid | Supports new and exchange students through programming that improves social integration and school belonging. | $1,000 |
| #25 | Voice Master Class Residency | Paula Holmberg | Vocal specialists provide individualized instruction across choir groups to strengthen technique and performance skills. | $1,600 |
| #30 | Camera System for MHS Art Department | MHS Art Staff | Provides dedicated photography tools to document student artwork and enhance visual arts instruction across the department. | $1,800 |
| #34 | Rosetta Stone Language Software | Heather Daldoul | ESL students use interactive software to strengthen English proficiency in speaking, reading, writing, and listening. | $1,200 |
| #39 | Alpha Omega Science Project | Wacker, Dierks, Weber | High school students partner with kindergarteners in hands-on science discovery and peer teaching experiences. | $1,245 |
| #46 | Tonka CARES Student Leadership | Davis, Nelson, Washburn | Student leadership program builds decision-making, resilience, and positive peer influence across co-curricular leaders. | $2,300 |
Clear Springs Elementary
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #37 | Gaining Reading Fluency Grades 2–5 | Sue Sorrentino | Upgrades Read Naturally resources to improve reading fluency and comprehension for struggling readers. | $800 |
| #53 | Leveled Readers for First Grade | Jackie Basile | Provides differentiated leveled books to support varied reading development in first grade classrooms. | $1,500 |
| #61 | Music Lovers ‘R’ Us | Melanie Kelly | Introduces hands-on music learning tools, including keyboard instruments, for elementary music instruction. | $517 |
Deephaven Elementary
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #49 | Extra Extra Write All About It! | Dawn Sailer | Supplies dictionaries and thesauruses to strengthen writing independence in first-grade students. | $282 |
| #50 | Read Any Good Math Lately? | Dawn Sailer | Integrates math-themed literature into reading instruction to strengthen cross-curricular learning. | $700 |
| #55 | Navigating the Elementary Years | Connie Keefe | Updates social work resources to support student emotional health and behavioral needs. | $500 |
| #58 | Home/School Fluency Program | Kathy Fox | Expands Read Naturally with at-home fluency practice to strengthen reading intervention and parent engagement. | $1,000 |
Groveland Elementary
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #24 | Scientist in Residency | Niki Danou, Kolstad, Lovelace | Mad Science residency provides hands-on science instruction aligned with second-grade curriculum units. | $750 |
| #29 | Leap Pad Technology | Colleen Gruel | Portable learning devices support differentiated instruction in reading and geography. | $1,134 |
| #36 | Home/School Fluency Program | Anne Redfern | Extends Read Naturally program with home practice to improve reading fluency. | $1,000 |
Excelsior Elementary
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #12 | Big Books | Julie Schneider | Large-format books support early literacy instruction, modeling fluency and print concepts. | $300 |
| #35 | Hands-On Algebra/Math Enrichment | Suzanne Cutshall | Introduces kinesthetic algebra learning using Hands-On Equations for elementary enrichment. | $1,285 |
| #39 | Alpha Omega Science Project | Wacker, Dierks, Weber | Cross-age science collaboration between high school and kindergarten students. | $0 |
Minnewashta Elementary
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #65 | Leveled Non-Fiction Literature | Chris Haun | Provides differentiated nonfiction texts to support science and social studies instruction. | $1,500 |
Scenic Heights Elementary
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #9 | Book Buddies & Assessment Kit | Michele Abel | Supports early reading intervention and benchmarking for K–2 students. | $865 |
| #15 | Art Department Display Boards | Jonathan Maki | Provides display systems for student artwork across district exhibitions. | $1,400 |
| #28 | Kindergarten Discovery Bags | Dierks, Olson, Polanski | At-home enrichment program supporting kindergarten learning across multiple domains. | $3,100 |
| #39 | Alpha Omega Science Project | Wacker, Dierks, Weber | Cross-age science learning collaboration between students and mentors. | $0 |
Minnetonka Middle School East
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #3 | Rosetta Stone Program for Transition Students | O’Meara, Sension, Lerdal | Language software supports communication development for special education students. | $607 |
| #43 | Plants, the Necessity of Life | Truettner, McCarthy | Enhances science learning through virtual and hands-on plant biology labs. | $700 |
| #54 | MME Photoshop Software | Paul Olson | Introduces digital design tools for 8th grade art portfolio development. | $1,050 |
| #62 | Orff-Schulwerk Music Training | Gotz, Shuppy | Provides teacher training in Orff music education methods. | $700 |
Minnetonka Middle School West
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #6 | Organization Bootcamp | Paula Erbisch | Structured program helps students build organization and study skills. | $500 |
| #8 | Video Flex for Microscopes | Hesse, Carlson | Adds digital microscope imaging for enhanced science instruction. | $1,700 |
| #51 | SmartMusic and Finale Stations | Pikal | Digital music tools support composition and performance learning. | $1,000 |
| #52 | HANG-Time Program | Markham | After-school enrichment program supports leadership, creativity, and engagement. | $1,500 |
| #47 | Communication Skills Development | Kari Faber | Uses photography to support communication and literacy in special education. | $750 |
District Education Center
| Grant # | Title | Lead Teacher/Staff | Summary | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #41 | Communication Skills Development Using Technology | Kari Faber | Uses digital photography to support early communication and sequencing skills. | $750 |
| #47 | Early Childhood Special Education Library | Brenda Noland | Expands early childhood special education literacy resources. | $1,000 |
Decodable Readers $100,000 Grant
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