Carmel Education Foundation awards Fall 2024 grants to support innovative classroom projects & student wellness

The Carmel Education Foundation (CEF) has announced the recipients of its Fall 2024 Great Idea Grants, funding innovative projects that inspire academic achievement and lifelong learning in Carmel Clay Schools. These grants are part of CEF’s commitment to providing resources that elevate learning in classrooms, schools, and departments across the district.

This season, CEF awarded over $15,000 in grants to educators, empowering them to implement creative solutions and impactful initiatives that enhance the educational experience. The awarded projects address diverse areas, including STEM education, wellness, and community engagement, ensuring equitable and accessible opportunities for all students.

CEF Executive Director Jennifer Penix expressed her excitement about this year’s grant recipients.

“Our grants are an investment in the incredible educators who make Carmel Clay Schools exceptional,” Penix said. “These projects showcase their creativity and dedication, and we are thrilled to support their efforts in fostering a dynamic and enriching learning environment.”

A team of Engineering and Technology teachers at Carmel High School – Zachery Jones, Zac Bonewit, and Sid Swartzendruber – shared:

“Thanks to CEF’s support, students in our automotive classes now have access to mobile toolboxes, enabling them to work on live vehicles and complete structured repairs,” the teachers said. “This hands-on experience is essential for preparing them for real-world automotive careers and building vital skills for their future.”

Carmel Middle School Principal Deanna Pitman, Kristen Irwin, Katie Russo, and CEF Program Manager Stacey Hetrick. (Photo provided by Carmel Education Foundation)

Kristen Irwin and Katie Russo, teachers at Carmel Middle School, expressed enthusiasm for their STEM-focused project:

“This grant will fund two robotic kits that will allow our students to build and program robots, preparing them to excel in regional and state competitions,” Irwin and Russo said. “The project not only enhances STEM skills but also fosters teamwork and critical thinking through hands-on, competitive robotics experiences. We’re excited to see our students rise to the challenge!”

In addition to educator grants, CEF has awarded over $5,000 to 12 schools that promoted their annual Ghosts and Goblins 5K/2K event. These funds are being used to fuel wellness activities at each school, including a family color run at Woodbrook Elementary and yoga classes for all of the more than 700 students at Clay Center Elementary.

The Carmel Education Foundation continues to play a vital role in supporting academic achievement and lifelong learning for Carmel Clay Schools. Through educator grants, scholarships, and wellness initiatives, CEF empowers students and educators to thrive.

To learn more about CEF’s initiatives or to join their efforts in supporting local schools, visit ccs.k12.in.us.edu/foundation or email foundation@ccs.k12.in.edu.

Thanks to participants in this year’s Ghosts and Goblins 5K/2K, over $5,000 was awarded to 12 Carmel Clay schools that promoted the event. (Photos provided by Carmel Education Foundation)