The Foundation for Springfield Public Schools is proud to feature board member Dr. Kendall Bennett, a Learning Business Consultant at Cardinal Health/Sonexus APS, whose roots in our community run deep. As a third-generation Springfield Public Schools alumna now raising a … Read More
Springfield Public Schools and the Foundation for Springfield Public Schools extend our deepest gratitude to the dedicated members of the 2024-2025 SPS Ambassadors, Class 4. This vital program connects community leaders and parents directly with our district’s inner workings, creating … Read More
The Foundation for Springfield Public Schools is honored to introduce Rhett Roberson as its new Board President. His roots in the district are extensive; while a proud Parkview High School graduate, he also attended Bingham, Campbell, Truman, Pleasant View, and … Read More
Thanks to the generosity of our Back-to-School donors, the library at Wanda Gray Elementary has been transformed into a bustling hub of scientific discovery. Librarian Lara Garrett’s innovative project, “Nature’s Classroom: Life Science in the Library,” received a grant from the Foundation for SPS to bring hands-on learning and literacy to life for over 500 students.
Throughout the school year, the library hosted eight rotating exhibits, captivating students with real-world science. From observing the fascinating decomposition of a pumpkin to watching tadpoles grow legs and caterpillars transform into butterflies, students experienced life cycles firsthand. The project seamlessly integrated interactive displays, observation journals, and a curated collection of new books, turning the library into a vibrant extension of the science classroom.
The impact was immediate and profound. Students’ observation skills sharpened, and their curiosity blossomed. “I like to check on the frog babies every time I come to the library,” shared kindergartener Luke. “I saw one grow legs! I picked a book about frogs so I can learn what they eat.” This excitement spread, with teachers noting that students were referencing the library exhibits in class. Fourth-grader Henry added, “When we were watching the pumpkin decompose, it was gross but also cool. I never knew mold could grow like that inside a jar. It made me want to learn more about how stuff breaks down in nature. I even taught my little brother about it.”
The project’s success exceeded all expectations, creating a joyful, interdisciplinary learning environment. The durable resources purchased through the grant will ensure that “Nature’s Classroom” can be repeated for years to come, benefiting future generations of students. This is a perfect example of how your support for the Foundation for SPS directly cultivates a love of learning and inspires our community’s future scientists, naturalists, and leaders.
Thank you for helping our students grow! Please join us in funding the upcoming round of Back-to-School Grants awarded in early September. Get involved today at www.SupportSPS.org/BacktoSPS !