During fall of 2021 Marion High School teachers MacKenzie Schroeder and Hilary Hansen submitted a Marion School Foundation grant to revamp furniture for the special education program including flexible seating options, whiteboard tables, and standing desks. Items were funded equally by the Marion School Foundation and by the district.
In a letter of support from MHS Associate Principal Chris Raymond, “[These] items will help student better regulate and focus their energy on classroom activities.”
Per a final grant report staff commented, “Our students have expressed to us many times how much they appreciate being able to pick how they sit and utilizing the flexible seating area when they are needing to have a moment of relaxation to finish their day strong.”
“I like sitting in the flexible seating area because it allows me to learn best.”- 9th Grader
“I like the whiteboard tables because they help me solve math equations without a bunch of extra paper.”- 10th Grader
When asked about unexpected outcomes from this grant staff shared, “Listening to your students can really teach you a lot about their learning styles and preferences. I know that desks have been the norm for a lot of years but that isn’t always the best way for students to get the best education. If we wouldn’t have listened they would still be in desks and maybe not learning the best ways possible.”
The Marion Foundation’s grant program provides teachers an opportunity to receive funding for projects that benefit students in the Marion Independent School District. Grants are made possible because of generous contributions the Foundation receives throughout the year from both businesses and individuals as well as a number of educational funds that are invested with the Foundation for long-term benefit.