SRS Contractor’s Grants to Teachers Top $975,000 Since 2009

AIKEN, S.C. — A U.S. Department of Energy Office of Environmental Management contractor at the Savannah River Site (SRS) continues to recognize innovative teaching methods by contributing thousands of dollars through the Innovative Teaching Mini Grants Program each year.

This year, 117 educators received their shares of $75,000 at a celebration in Aiken. And since 2009, Savannah River Nuclear Solutions (SRNS) has contributed over $975,000 to support educators from public, private and charter schools in Aiken, Allendale, Bamberg, Barnwell, Edgefield, Orangeburg, Columbia and Richmond counties.

“As a former educator, this program means the world to me as it recognizes outstanding teachers for their dedication to student learning,” SRNS Education Outreach Specialist Taylor Rice said. “SRNS continues to put educators first as they develop the STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) skills we need in our future workforce.”

Barnwell Elementary School educator Tanya Anderson wins a door prize during the Savannah River Nuclear Solutions Innovative Teaching Mini Grants Program reception. Anderson will use the funds to purchase financial literacy and budgeting materials for her classroom.

Mallory Walp, East Aiken School of the Arts, wins a door prize during the Savannah River Nuclear Solutions (SRNS) Innovative Teaching Mini Grants Program reception. Walp is introducing Diplo Legos to her first grade classroom, using SRNS grant funds.

Savannah River Nuclear Solutions Innovative Teaching Mini Grants Program recipient Wendy Schilling and her guest pose for a photo booth picture during the reception for the grants.

The grants fund the purchase of various project materials, hands-on kits and computer programs. A panel of 50 SRS employees serve as judges and select the winners. Educators seeking classroom supplies are eligible for $500 grants, while those enhancing STEM curriculums receive grants ranging from $750 to $1,000.

“SRNS’ support is instrumental in nurturing students’ passion for STEM, paving the way for rewarding careers,” remarked Kristina Istre, A.R. Johnson Health Science and Engineering Magnet School educator. “The funding will enable the introduction of an aquaponics unit in my seventh grade science class, teaching students how to create aquariums, address food deserts and cultivate soilless plants indoors.”

Stephany Griffin, an educator at Tall Pines STEM Academy, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to establish her classes’ first pollination garden.

“My students can now study plant adaptations, reproduction and the important role bees play in the world,” Griffin said. “I will continue to spread the word about SRNS mini grants and the significant impact it has on our school.”

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