Page 11 - 2025 Mid-Year GPS Magazine

While Full STEM Ahead focused on broad scientific concepts, another innovative project took
root at Zotz Education Center. When Latasha Anthony and Robert Williams realized many of their
students were interested in caring for plants in their classrooms, they applied to fund the Plant
Care Project. The award of $800 allowed students to develop responsible habits by tending to
the care and growth of class plants. Each classroom was provided with four plants over nine
weeks. Students were charged with identifying and researching the type of plants they received
and determining the necessary care to survive and grow their plants to their full potential.
Students assisted in responsibilities and maintained logs for each plant.

Since the program’s inception, the students have taken great pride in their abilities to investigate,
organize, and collaborate. Through this project, students learned about the life cycle of plants,
sustainable agriculture, and the impact of human activity on the environment. Programs like
these not only enrich science education but also promote mindfulness through interaction with
the natural world.

While the STEM and plant care projects focused on scientific exploration, another innovative
grant showcased the creative arts. Arnecia Walker’s application for Threads of Creativity: A
Fashion Exhibit Inspiring the Future opened doors to a world of creativity and practical skills for
the fashion design students at North Shore Senior High School (NSSHS). The purpose of this project
is to create a dynamic and educational fashion exhibit that showcases student talent and
creativity, inspires learning, and promotes sustainability within the fashion design program. Unlike
ever before, Ms. Walker wanted to introduce all of NSSHS to the fashion world by curating a
visually captivating exhibit featuring student-designed garments, sketches, mood boards, fashion
displays, and sustainability-focused fashion projects and on Tuesday,
April 30, 2024, she did just that!

Display structures, mannequins, and signage illuminated the
North Shore Senior High School’s first-ever fashion exhibit.
Students were engaged in interactive sketching stations and
design presentations for all NSSHS faculty, staff, and parents to
see. This initiative allowed budding designers to explore fashion
intricacies through hands-on projects. The program
cultivated creativity and prepared students for
potential careers in the fashion industry, making
it a valuable addition to our curriculum. Look for
Walker’s newest [2024] grant award for the Art of
Space and Style!

The Education Foundation Innovative Grants
are instrumental in transforming educational
experiences across our District. By supporting
STEM, fashion, and plant growth programs,
these grants empower teachers to create
dynamic and engaging learning environments.
The impact of these initiatives extends beyond
the classroom, inspiring students to explore new
interests, develop critical skills, and contribute
positively to their communities. As we continue to
nurture these programs, we ensure our legacy of
shaping the future of education will carry on. Mr. Williams Demonstrates Plant Care