Laura Douridas, Walnut Springs Middle School Ozobots offer a unique blend of innovation and creativity by allowing students to code through both drawing color-coded paths on paper and using advanced block-based programming. This dual approach accommodates a wide range of learners, from beginners to advanced coders. Students can design unique mazes, stories, and simulations, encouraging both technical proficiency and creative expression in the math classroom.

William Goldner and Lee Smith, Genoa Middle School "This funding request seeks to acquire essential hardware components for the Computer Science for Innovators & Makers Course, a project-based, hands-on middle school curriculum for 8th grade students. The course integrates computer science principles with design thinking and physical computing, allowing students to design, build, and program innovative solutions to real-world problems. The primary purpose of this funding is to move beyond purely simulated or software-only learning by providing students with the physical tools necessary to bring their digital designs to life. These additions will create an authentic Innovators and Makers environment, directly enhancing student engagement, critical thinking, and technical skills mastery."

Emily Berrigan, Lori Peters, Ree Bostic-Gussler; Westerville North & South ""LIGHTS!, CAMERA!, *SILENCE*!" connecting American Sign Language to enhance communication and creative expression. Creating a 'Portrait of a Graduate' one frame at a time thanks to the generosity of WEF! "

Ricky Robbins and Jamie Callighan, Westerville south "Students at Westerville South will design, manage, and operate their own school store—learning entrepreneurship, financial management, and customer service while creating custom spirit wear and building a sustainable business that funds their own leadership opportunities."

Beth Baryon, Minerva Park Middle School "The Minerva Park Community Book Swap is a community event focused on sharing books. Anyone may bring books to trade, or buy books for minimal cost to take home. Our mission is to decrease the number of books in landfills and increase the number of books in the homes of our community."

Beth Morvay, Minerva Park Middle School "In order to help encourage students to share their unique perspectives with a broad audience, building students’ sense of agency and artistic accomplishment, Minerva Park Middle School will host both a building- and district-wide middle school poetry slam. Building community and the arts at the same time, competitors and spectators will enjoy performances of student-written poetry and celebrate winners of these annual competitions."

Maria Soisson and Claire Yates, Walnut Springs Middle School "Magnetic tiles are a favorite among people of all ages! We plan to use them to assist instruction with sixth grade standards including calculating surface area and writing ratios. "

Laura Buty, Annehurst Elementary "The Annehurst 4th Grade Garden Club connects students with experienced volunteers from the local Annehurst Village Garden Club to cultivate both gardens and young minds. With grant funding, students will learn about plant science, nutrition, and sustainability through hands-on gardening projects guided by community mentors. Together, we’ll grow a thriving outdoor classroom that strengthens intergenerational bonds and nurtures a lifelong love of nature."

Sarah Sheppard, Alcott Elementary "This project empowers students to share their learning like real-world creators, using new technology to present their research, stories, and projects to peers, families, and the community, bringing learning to life in engaging, authentic ways each quarter."

Heather Sunday, Minerva France Elementary "English Together" is a family English program to build Minerva France’s relationship with families and provide a space where they can communicate their needs more freely with school staff members. Learning materials are provided at no cost to all participants, and students are given the opportunity to develop their language skills alongside their adult family members."

Lee Rutherford and Tresa Douglas, Blendon Middle School "The African-American Read-in has become a signature event to honor the diversity of our community and celebrate literature. It serves as a reminder that Westerville IS a place where EVERYONE belongs."

Noelle Spriestersbach and Sheila Ebbrecht, Westerville South ""Fuel for Success" supports student well-being at Westerville South by keeping the Wildcat Den and Snack Space stocked with essential resources. The project helps meet immediate student needs—including food, clothing, and hygiene—so that every student can show up ready to learn and thrive."