Educating for Tomorrow

Teacher Grants Recipients

Through the Georgia Teacher Initiative, the Georgia Foundation for Public Education has awarded grants between $500 and $2,500 in Teacher Grants for Innovation to Georgia public school teachers with an innovative project designed to improve learning outcomes and make a measurable impact on your student’s lives.

View Recipients from previous rounds by clicking the links below, or look below on this page to see recent Recipients.

 

Round 1 Recipients
Round 2 Recipients
Round 3 Recipients
Round 4 Recipients
Round 5 Recipients
Round 6 Recipients
Round 7 Recipients

Recent Grant Recipients

Rex Mill MIddle STEM School, Clayton County Public Schools

Krista Stuckey, $2,500

Using the Teacher Grant for Innovation, Ms. Stuckey will implement Ozobot Coding and STEM Exploration, which aims to transform STEM learning by integrating robotics and coding into the curriculum. Ozobots are small, programmable robots that engage students in hands-on, inquiry-based learning. They allow students to learn and apply coding, engineering, and problem-solving skills through fun, interactive challenges. These activities support collaboration and creativity while connecting STEM concepts to real-world applications like automation, design, and programming.

“Innovation in my classroom bridges technology, creativity, and collaboration to foster deeper learning. Ozobots provide a tangible way for students to explore complex STEM concepts, making abstract ideas like coding and robotics accessible and engaging. Students actively experiment, iterate, and apply their learning to real-world scenarios, fostering a growth mindset. By incorporating robotics into our curriculum, we create opportunities for students to explore emerging fields, cultivate their critical thinking skills, and become confident problem-solvers prepared for the challenges of the 21st century.”

Greenbriar High School, Columbia County Schools

Crystal McDowell, $2,500

Ms. Mcdowell will use the Teacher Grant for Innovation to continue the initiative, “The Da Vinci Project,” which engages students in experiences that allow them to use their creativity to innovate. Specifically, the project aims to improve fine motor hands to mind skills, which are deficit skill sets identified by local employers, particularly in the medical fields. Through models, medical training tools, virtual reality and augmented reality, students will develop skills that can transfer to many careers and, through relevant contextual lessons, also expose them to numerous possible careers that would utilize these skills.
“What I have observed throughout my career is that humans are naturally curious. Young children are eager to ask questions, to explore the world around them with their senses, and to be creative. Traditional methods and other factors tend to diminish that creativity and curiosity. Students stop acting on their inquisitive nature. What I know is that ability is still there and it is through innovation that I aim to unlock that curiosity and creativity in my students. Innovative instruction allows students freedom to create and to take ownership in their learning. Given a collaborative, inquiry-based learning environment, students innovate.”

East Hall Middle School, Hall County Schools

Amy Park, $2,500

Ms. Park will use the Teacher Grant for Innovation to purchase supplies and equipment for students to create and print picture books. Specifically, the project gives middle school students the tools to print their picture books, encouraging creativity, reading, and involvement in the community. Students will write and draw books that show what they’re interested in, their stories, and their ethnic backgrounds. During interactive read-aloud sessions, students will share their finished works with younger elementary students. They will do this by having guided writing sessions, sketching workshops, and opportunities to post their work.
“In my classroom, new ideas turn standard lessons into active, student-led experiences. I get my students to think about how their skills can be used in the real world by using technology, cross-disciplinary methods, and project-based learning. Through projects like the picture book initiative, students can express themselves creatively, work together with others, and connect with the community in a useful way. This method helps students understand things better, think critically, and want to keep learning throughout their lives.”

Paulding County High School, Paulding County School District

Mark Pedersen, $2,000

Ms. Webster will use the Teacher Grant for Innovation to introduce students to Snatoms, an innovative hands-on molecular model kit that helps students grasp the concepts of atomic and molecular structures. Snatoms offer a disruptive, transformative approach by replacing traditional static models with interactive, tactile learning tools. This project will foster an inclusive, collaborative learning environment and promises to deliver a breakthrough in how students visualize and understand chemistry concepts.
“The project is innovative, and will provide 200+ students with hands-on experiences, and it’s cross-curricular and involves vertical collaboration. Thus, students will be immersed in a project that will involve multiple content areas. Students from automotive class will document the DOT tire codes, which will provide the date of manufacture for each tire. The project will involve the arts and STEAM learning through the engineering of decorative sensory gardens using the tires. Students will repurpose the tires for use as roofing shingles. Lastly, students will utilize genetic analysis and barcoding procedures to identify microfauna diversity in the impacted stream bed.”

Northeast Middle School, Tift County Schools

Bill Curtis, $2,500

Virtual reality (VR) in healthcare encourages novel approaches to traditional challenges, promoting continuous improvement in training methods and patient-centered care. As VR headsets grow in popularity in healthcare for training, therapy, and patient care, Mr. Curtis would like to apply them in his own middle school classes. Mr. Curtis will use the Teacher Grant for Innovation to provide immersive simulations for medical training, allowing students to practice procedures in a risk-free environment. The opportunity exemplifies how technology can be harnessed to address real-world needs in a more engaging and effective way.

“Innovation in my classroom plays a vital role in engaging students and enhancing their learning experiences. By integrating new technologies and creative methodologies, I encourage critical thinking and collaboration. For instance, using audio recording for podcasts fosters not only technical skills but also creativity and self-expression. Innovative practices, such as project-based learning and guest speakers, inspire students to explore real-world applications of their studies. This approach cultivates a dynamic environment where students feel empowered to take risks, explore diverse perspectives, and actively participate in their education, ultimately preparing them for future challenges.”

Cleveland Avenue Elementary School, Atlanta Public Schools

Willeka Stone, $500

Using the Teacher Grant for Innovation, Ms. Harrison will implement “Building Electric Race Cars,” which will engage 9th grade physical science students in designing and constructing small, functional electric race cars. By combining physics principles such as energy transformations, force, and motion, students experience hands-on STEM learning. Through this hands-on project, students will actively engage in learning thus preparing them for future careers in STEM while addressing the need for sustainable, energy-efficient solutions in transportation.

“Innovation in my class plays a crucial role in engaging students and enhancing their learning experiences. By incorporating hands-on, real-world projects like building electric race cars, students apply scientific concepts creatively and critically. Innovation fosters problem-solving, teamwork, and the ability to experiment and iterate, making learning more meaningful and dynamic. It allows students to connect classroom knowledge with real-life applications, sparking curiosity and preparing them for future STEM fields. Through innovative approaches, students become active participants in their education, developing the skills and mindset needed to tackle challenges in an ever-evolving world.”

Osborne High School, Cobb County School District

Kyle Daniels, $2,500

Mr. Daniels will use the grant to enhance Osborne High School’s esports tram project, which aims to integrate competitive gaming into the educational curriculum, fostering both academic and social skills. By supporting an esports team within the school, students can participate in structured tournaments that emphasize teamwork, strategic thinking, and digital literacy. This project not only leverages the popularity of esports to motivate students but also integrates educational goals, making it a pioneering approach in the educational landscape. Additionally, this project will impact student engagement and learning outcomes by holding students accountable by maintaining grades and upholding a code of conduct in class.

“Innovation in the classroom through esports involves leveraging gaming to enhance learning and engagement. By integrating esports, I create a dynamic environment where students develop critical thinking, teamwork, and digital literacy skills. This approach not only makes learning more relevant and enjoyable but also prepares students for future opportunities in the growing esports industry. The innovative use of esports fosters inclusivity, collaboration, and a modern educational experience that resonates with students’ interests and needs.”

Georgia School for Innovation and the Classics

Melissa Davenport, $750

Ms. Davenport will use the Teacher Grant for Innovation to enhance her curriculum on rocks and minerals and the life cycle. Specifically, she would like to make her rock and mineral lessons more innovative by using a variety of supplies and equipment, including a rock tumbler, rock and mineral samples, tools for rocks and minerals, and kits to identify rocks and minerals. Additionally, when teaching about the life cycle, she will use the grant to purchase owl pellets which students will dissect to see what owls eat.

“I pride myself in offering as many hands-on experiences as I possibly can in my classroom. Students are going to remember the things they did way more than they will remember the things they read about. I consider my classroom to be very innovative as I provide many activities that make learning come to life for my students.”

Moore Elementary School, Griffin-Spalding County Schools

Heather Fricke, $500

Ms. Fricke, a first-year art teacher at Moore Elementary School, will use the Teacher Grant for Innovation to transform art education for her Pre-K through 5th grade students. Specifically, she will purchase sculpting clay, watercolors, and supplies for printmaking. The supplies and the activities in which they allow students to engage help develop their self-expression, fine motor skills, and collaboration.
“Innovation in my art classroom transforms traditional learning by providing students with diverse materials like clay, watercolor, and printmaking tools to explore new mediums. These resources encourage hands-on, experiential learning that fosters creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration. Most of my students have never used these mediums. By integrating modern techniques and materials, students are exposed to innovative approaches to self-expression and critical thinking. Innovation in the art classroom ensures students develop essential life skills while inspiring confidence and a lifelong appreciation for creativity and the arts.”

Parkview High School, Gwinnett County Public Schools

Katie Mehlhorn, $1,250

Ms. Mehlhorn will implement the course “Peer-led Restorative Practices and Leadership,” an innovative new approach to building safe and positive school culture. Specifically, the leadership development class strengthens connectedness and improves academic and well-being outcomes for Parkview High School students. Students will be tasked with collecting and analyzing data to determine whether the Peer-led Restorative Practices and Leadership approach helps mitigate the problem of student disconnectedness. This program will be developed with and for Parkview students, teachers, and administrators and will be designed to benefit everyone over time.
“The role of innovation in my classroom is to foster creativity and problem-solving that empowers students to approach complex problems with new perspectives and to think critically about their roles as leaders. Innovation invites students to try new approaches to creating change and inspires others to do the same. Innovation encourages students to challenge conventional approaches to school safety and reimagine what an investment in building student relationships can do to foster connectedness. Ultimately, students will be able to apply innovative approaches to real-world leadership scenarios.”

Newton College & Career Academy, Newton CountySchools

Zachary Pitts, $2,500

Mr. Pitts will use the Teacher Grant for Innovation to equip Newton College and Career Academy engineering and manufacturing students with the skills demanded by a rapidly evolving local workforce. Designed collaboratively with students, teachers, educational leaders, and local industry partners, this program reimagines traditional classroom learning by integrating real-world problem-solving with STEM-focused education. Specifically, this initiative introduces a rare and transformative approach to education, empowering students to design and build electric cars while mastering electronics, engineering, and manufacturing principles. By linking academic concepts to tangible outcomes, the program not only enhances engagement but also prepares students for careers in advanced manufacturing and renewable energy, two vital sectors in Georgia’s economy.
“Innovation in our classroom drives learning by connecting students to real-world challenges and cutting-edge technologies. Through projects like building an electric car, students apply STEM concepts in hands-on, meaningful ways, fostering critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving. Innovation transforms traditional learning by incorporating industry partnerships, such as mentorship from Delta Tech Ops and SRG Global, to provide practical insights and career pathways. This approach not only enhances engagement but also equips students with the skills and confidence needed for success in advanced manufacturing and renewable energy, preparing them to thrive in a rapidly evolving, technology-driven world.”

Teacher Spotlights

"I plan to use the Teacher Grants for Innovation funds to purchase a VR headset for my classroom so my students can create 3-dimensional art in virtual reality and have the opportunity to integrate technical advancements with timeless concepts of beauty and creativity."
Matthew LathropK-5 Visual Arts Teacher
Matthew Lathrop
“The funding from the GTI Award will purchase KIBO, a robotic system that allows young elementary students to combine reading comprehension and robotics as they learn to code the robot to summarize the story they read.”
Elizabeth ProctorK-2 STEM Teacher
Elizabeth Proctor
“My GTI-funded project fosters leadership and problem-solving skills in high school students as they work to develop a hands-on STEM program for 4th and 5th-grade students in an economically disadvantaged housing complex.”
Leon GrantHigh School Pre-Engineering/STEM Teacher
Leon Grant
“Applying for GTI grant funds was simple and with the funding I will be able to take my forensics unit to the next level. Students will now be able to use blood typing kids, fingerprint analysis, and more as they work to solve the crime during our crime science lab.”
Kylie GarrardMiddle School STEM Teacher
Kylie Garrard
"Mrs. Parham fosters an environment where creativity and critical thinking flourish, constantly seeking new ways to engage her students. Her dedication to innovation not only enhances the learning experience but also prepares her students for the challenges of a rapidly evolving world."
Ashley ParhamJasper County Primary School, 1st grade teacher
Ashley Parham
"Ms. Shipman uses different strategies to help students solve problems. She is highly passionate and gets her students excited about learning. Her method of teaching is a phenomenon.
Greta Shipman5th Grade Teacher, Factory Shoals Elementary
Greta Shipman
"Mrs. Brown is constantly incorporating cutting-edge technology into her classroom. She fearlessly embraces new technology and passes it onto her students, and her love and dedication to her students and towards her profession are without limit."
Gail Brown6th Grade Teacher, East Cobb Middle School
Gail Brown
“Mrs. Hong constantly explores new topics through research and data and teaches critical thinking skills when analyzing a challenge. Through innovation and creativity, she reaches and teaches all kids. She connects well with children of different personalities and learning abilities and guides them on the right path of education.”
Virginia HongFourth Grade Teacher, Murdock Elementary School
Virginia Hong
“Ms. Rivera-Suarez is always looking for innovative ways to make science come alive for her students. In 2024, more students participated in the science fair than ever before – a completely voluntary activity. Their participation was attributed to Ms. Rivera-Suarez, who motivated them to make their most innovative science ideas come to life.”
Yolanda Rivera-SuarezEighth Grade Science Teacher, Creekland Middle School
Yolanda Rivera-Suarez
“Mrs. Corbin exemplifies innovation in the classroom by encouraging engagement through Project-Based Learning. She offers students unique learning experiences and makes learning accessible for all her students.”
Staci Corbin5th grade ELA & Social Studies Teacher, Trion Elementary School
Staci Corbin
“I have Dr. Jones to thank for my love of science. I will always attribute my success in the science field to her. Not only did she facilitate my interest, but she engaged in it with me. Dr. Jones truly deserves this recognition because, without her, I would not be pursuing entry into Howard University's BS-MD Program!”
Tiffany JonesHigh School Science Teacher, South Cobb High School
Tiffany Jones
"Ms. McDowell advocates for all learners to be actively involved in their education. Her dedication is unmatched, and she strives to bring real-life issues into the classroom to engage students in the practical side of science education. Ms. McDowell is a change agent to the core and a great role model for new and veteran teachers.”
Crystal McDowellHigh School Science Teacher, Greenbrier High School
Crystal McDowell
Mrs. Spillman has been teaching music for 23 years and is constantly looking for ways to inspire and bring the musical arts to life. She understands the importance of the impact arts can have on a child's life and is a treasure to our school.
Terra SpillmanMusic Teacher, Providence Elementary School
Terra Spillman
Ms. Patterson is a natural innovator and provides creative instruction to her students. She makes learning fun and inviting for all her students by providing alternative seating and instruction in her beautiful classroom.
Meredith PattersonKindergarten Teacher, Woodstation Elementary School
Meredith Patterson
“Mrs. Hamilton exemplifies innovation in the classroom. She makes learning fun by building on students’ background knowledge and using practical, everyday situations to teach complex ideas. Mrs. Hamilton's biggest mode of measurable impact is the relationships she builds with her students. She works to get to know them, to make them feel welcome, seen and heard in her class. She treats students with respect, and they love her for it.”
Keisha Hamilton7th Grade Language Arts & Social Studies Teacher, Jefferson Middle School
Keisha Hamilton
“Ms. Johnson has a unique way of seeing a problem and finding solutions to meet the needs of her students. While teaching Special Education, she saw a need for more training on how General Education and Special Education teachers can collaborate better together. She has since stepped into a general education teacher role and is now serving as a teacher leader to help improve collaboration among all teachers."
Jennifer Johnson4th Grade Teacher, Tesnatee Gap Elementary School
Jennifer Johnson
“Mrs.Parris is always trying new ways to help us understand the assignment. She uses many different teaching styles. I learned so much in the short year I had her class. Great teaching strategies and great teacher. She made me love math again. Her ways of teaching impact me and my relationship with math.”
Courtney ParrisMath Teacher, Trion High School
Courtney Parris
“Ms. Hicks really gets to know her students and what motivates them, what they struggle with and why. By seeing the big picture, she can incorporate this into her goals for each kid. She works as a team with fellow faculty to make sure each child stays engaged throughout the day which is no small feat with a classroom full of kindergarten children. She is very communicative and keeps parents in the loop and asks for feedback every step of the way.”
Ashley HicksKindergarten Teacher, Whitesburg Elementary School
Ashley Hicks
“Mr. Rivas is a dedicated teacher who is committed to educating students. He has a long history of public service, teaching, and working with youth. He tutors young people, started a track and field club for students, transports senior citizens to medical appointments, and volunteers at the Atlanta Food Bank. Mr. Rivas has a heart for teaching and is committed to improving the lives of students.”
Stephon Rivas6th Grade Math Teacher, DeKalb International School
Stephon Rivas
"Mrs. Dillon's classroom exudes innovation. Her students use underwater robotics to learn science, technology, engineering, and math.  When you walk into Mrs. Dillon’s room, the first thing you observe is students collaborating and communicating about issues our world is facing. She knocks down the walls of her classroom by taking her students on learning adventures and connecting them with industry professionals and organizations."
Raegan DillonMiddle School Engineering & Robotics Teacher, STEM Academy at Bartlett
Raegan Dillon
"Mr. Chatman puts forth every effort to optimize his students’ engagement in math by developing interesting and engaging hands-on lessons that are authentic to real life experiences. I refer to his teaching style as everyday math excursions. He takes students on mathematical explorations in order to solve, expound on, and/or create math language problems (numeracy) that fit the particular ‘outside of the classroom’ experience and/or excursion."
Anthony Chatman 7th Grade Math Teacher, Dublin Middle School
Anthony Chatman
"Coach Hobbs goes above and beyond to ensure her students grow and learn. She uses creative ways to keep the students engaged through games, teams, activities and interactive lessons. She sets high expectations for the students and pushes them to reach their potential. Her door is always open to students and fellow teachers in need of her help. She believes every student can learn and will do whatever it takes to reach those considered unreachable. Her test scores reflect the students’ hard work and perseverance she expects and guides in her classroom."
Brittany Hobbs High School Math Teahcer, Treutlen County High School
Brittany Hobbs
Ms. Summers exemplifies innovation through her transformative approach to learning and integration of technology and hands-on experiences. She adapts lessons to cater to diverse learning styles, ensuring every student can contribute meaningfully. Her ability to inspire curiosity and foster a love for learning has left a lasting impression on her students, equipping them with the skills, confidence, and motivation needed for future success in academic and personal endeavors.
Francesca Summers4th grade teacher, Kemp Elementary School
Francesca Summers
Ms. Pernell uses a blend of technology, project-based learning, and real-world applications to make lessons memorable. Her dedication to her students extends beyond academics, as she encourages them to develop essential skills like collaboration, critical thinking, and self-expression. Her impact is evident in her students’ increased confidence and enthusiasm for learning.
Marie Pernell3rd Grade Teacher Edwin S. Kemp Elementary School, Clayton County Public Schools
Marie Pernell
Ms. Ball exemplifies innovation by creating a classroom environment that disrupts traditional approaches to math education. Her innovative teaching methods have led to measurable improvements in student performance, including higher math test scores and increased engagement with challenging content.
Tiffany Ball7th Grade Math, Eighth Street Middle School, Tift County Schools
Tiffany Ball
"Mrs. Desmangles teaches the Financial Literacy Pathway and teaches her students how all subjects tie into financial literacy. She pays attention to her student group to incorporate real life scenarios into her lessons with interactive projects."
Merlande DesmanglesFinancial Literacy Teacher, Hiram High School
Merlande Desmangles
"Mrs. Davenport comes up with a project and demonstration for every unit to help her students understand and love science. She breaks it down and shows the kids what they couldn't imagine without seeing it."
Melissa Davenport3rd grade Science & Math Teacher, Georgia School for Innovation and the Classics
Melissa Davenport
"Ms. Ajileye makes science engaging and relevant! Her hands-on projects, like a recent air quality study after the Conyers chemical fire, inspire critical thinking and real-world problem-solving. She fosters collaboration and uses interactive technology to enhance learning—empowering students every step of the way!"
Omoleye Ajileye10th grade Science Teacher
Omoleye Ajileye
"For nearly 20 years, Ms. McAuley’s Outdoor Classroom Program has tackled habitat loss across Georgia by transforming a barren lot into a thriving ecosystem. Partnering with local experts and students, she’s led rewilding efforts, connecting students to nature and giving them ownership of environmental stewardship."
Jennifer McAuley7th grade Science Teacher
Jennifer McAuley
"Kelly brings innovation to her classroom by blending English learning with students’ home languages, creating a space that celebrates their culture while building new skills. Her creative approach makes language learning meaningful and inclusive."
Kelly ThomasElementary School ESOL teacher
Kelly Thomas

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