Queen Creek foundation grants are put to use at Gateway Polytechnic

Two teachers at Gateway Polytechnic Academy are enhancing instruction in their classrooms through grants from the Queen Creek Schools Education Foundation.

Music teacher Emily Stanton will use her grant to purchase Makey Makeys for a STEM-based project that allows fifth- and sixth-grade students to design and build their own instruments.

“This project helps them better understand how STEM concepts connect with fine arts while allowing them to create music in a new and innovative way,” Stanton stated in a Queen Creek Unified School District press release.

Stanton shared that the project provides students with a deeper, hands-on learning experience.

“Providing our students with opportunities like this helps connect fine arts to core content areas and brings meaningful educational experiences to our students,” she stated. “We are very grateful for the support from QCSEF and the opportunity this grant provides.”

In another GPA classroom, teacher Kelli Gordon is using her grant to support students who need additional help with reading.

Her grant is funding hands-on manipulatives designed to reinforce phonics and reading skills through kinesthetic learning.

“Reading should be taught in a way that improves memory, focus and engagement,” Gordon stated in the release. “These tools help strengthen the neural pathways needed for effective learning.”

Additional resources allow her to better support students who are struggling.

 “I can work with students in small groups to reinforce phonics concepts and increase retention and understanding,” Gordon stated.

She also emphasized the importance of external support.

“These funds allow me to provide what I know is best for my students without a financial burden on my family,” Gordon stated.