The second-annual Gala, held on February 13, 2025, featured a sweetheart theme, the Newlywed Game, live and silent auctions, and a dessert buffet created by Maize culinary students. Together, guests raised over $35,000, with proceeds benefiting Student Enrichment Grants, Challenge Grants, Teacher Appreciation initiatives, and more. Two Challenge Grants were fully funded that night, helping bring new educational ideas to classrooms across the district.
Inclusive Play for All
The Inclusive Play for All grant enhances the learning experience of children with special needs by providing switch-adapted toys. The goal is to create an inclusive environment that supports cognitive, social, and motor development for children with diverse abilities. The classroom serves students with various disabilities, and traditional toys are often inaccessible to them, limiting their engagement and growth. Switch-adapted toys, activated by simple switches, offer a solution by allowing children to play and communicate independently, promoting active participation. Funding will be used to purchase a variety of these toys, encouraging interaction, communication, and cooperation among the children. The integration of technology in the toys aligns with modern educational practices and enhances the overall learning experience. This initiative aims to foster a supportive environment where every child's unique abilities are valued. Ultimately, the project will improve the quality of education and promote inclusivity, benefiting both the individual children and the broader community.
Chameleons Growing in Science and Art
Vermillion Elementary is excited to take our cross curricular learning beyond the brick and mortar through the utilization of our outdoor learning courtyard. Students will be engulfed in their learning with the five sense garden, the exposure to a variety of art techniques as well as learning about life first hand through the incubation process of chicks. Chameleon students will be encouraged to safely explore and get their hands dirty as they learn through these cross curricular experiences.
