“Play-based learning creates a fair and positive environment,” says Mrs. Hummer, an Early Learning teacher at Amelia Earhart Elementary. With the support of an Innovative Teacher Grant provided by the Goddard Education Foundation, Mrs. Hummer can apply play-based learning tactics in her classroom.

With Mrs. Hummer’s Innovative Teacher Grant, along with help from the USD 265 Maintenance department, she built a LEGO wall for students to utilize as a creative outlet for play-based collaborative learning. Mrs. Hummer explains, “It can accommodate the needs and abilities of all learners and eliminate any hurdles in the learning process. It is a maker space for any age and subject area.” This will create a versatile learning experience for a wide variety of subject matter and for students of all abilities.

By using the LEGO wall, students experience open-ended, creative projects to further their cognitive development. Staff motivates students to overcome obstacles while using makerspace manipulatives. Mrs. Hummer expresses, “Students are encouraged to be persistent and engage in play.”

The hands-on learning opportunity in Mrs. Hummer’s classroom motivates students to utilize creativity when solving problems. She states: “It creates a foundation for creative expression, collaborative learning, and a community-oriented mindset.” Students are learning how to find creative solutions to difficult problems with the help of manipulatives implemented by innovative teachers. The Goddard Education Foundation is passionate about providing these opportunities for students and staff to explore creative expression and execution. Thank you, USD 265 Maintenance Department, for building the Lego wall and helping expand possibilities for our youngest learners.

Amelia Earhart Elementary Teacher Grants

INSPIRING MINDS & EXPANDING POSSIBILITIESFOR AMELIA EARHART ELEMENTARY

2023 Ashley Allen - Kindergarten Teacher

2023 Kacie Benteman - Counselor

2023 Megan Hummer - PreK Teacher

2023 Darla Osborn - Gifted Teacher

2022 Victoria Wollard- Kindergarten Teacher

2021 Rochelle Mann- Music Teacher

2020 Ashley Thoreen- 1st Grade Teacher

2019 Staci Thomas- Librarian

2019 Jeanette Dalrymple- Kindergarten Teacher

2018 Kacie Benteman- Counselor