West Pender Middle School Teachers Win 2024 LAMB Grant to Support Exceptional Children
West Pender Middle School teachers Sallie Gore and Ashley Wilson have received the 2024 LAMB grant from The Harry Hap Hansen Council 12281 of the Knights of Columbus. The grant, aimed at supporting educational initiatives for students with intellectual disabilities, will fund the creation of Mindfulness Corners in the school’s Exceptional Children (EC) classrooms. These innovative spaces are designed to help students manage sensory and emotional challenges, promoting a calmer, more focused learning environment.
"We saw a need to create calming and supportive spaces for our EC students," said Gore. "Many of our students face sensory overload, anxiety, and emotional regulation challenges, which can make it difficult for them to engage in a traditional classroom setting. This grant allows us to meet their unique needs and help them succeed academically."
Tackling Challenges Through Mindfulness
The Mindfulness Corners will feature sensory tools like bean bag chairs, fidget items, calming visuals, and other resources to help students self-regulate during moments of sensory or emotional distress. These spaces align with students' Individualized Education Program (IEP) goals, focusing on emotional regulation, sensory processing, and social-emotional development.
"Our goal is to provide a structured environment where students can manage their emotions, reduce anxiety, and refocus on learning," explained Wilson. "We want to create a safe space that empowers students to return to class ready to engage and succeed."
A Streamlined Grant Process
Gore and Wilson learned about the LAMB grant through district EC personnel, who shared an email outlining the application criteria. They submitted a proposal detailing how the funds would benefit the EC department, including an itemized list of expenses. Their application emphasized the critical role of self-regulation in student success and outlined the long-term benefits of Mindfulness Corners.
"The application process was straightforward," said Wilson. "We focused on clearly articulating the need and connecting the project to student outcomes and educational goals. Our proposal highlighted how these resources align with best practices in special education."
Looking Ahead
While the Mindfulness Corners have yet to be fully implemented, Gore and Wilson are eager to see the impact on their students and the broader school community. "We believe these spaces will help students manage their emotions, improve their ability to focus, and create a calmer, more productive classroom environment," said Gore.
The long-term vision for the project includes expanding these resources to more classrooms and integrating emotional regulation strategies into the broader school culture. "We plan to evaluate the effectiveness of the Mindfulness Corners, share the benefits with administrators, and pursue additional grants to sustain and grow the initiative," added Wilson.
Advice for Fellow Educators
For other educators seeking grant funding, Gore and Wilson emphasize the importance of identifying specific needs and crafting a detailed, student-centered proposal. "Don’t be afraid to apply—even small grants can lead to meaningful changes," said Gore. "Reach out for feedback to ensure your application is clear and compelling."
A Bright Future for Exceptional Children
The West Pender Middle School community eagerly awaits the implementation of the Mindfulness Corners and the positive impact they are expected to bring. With this grant, Gore and Wilson have taken a significant step toward creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for all students, ensuring that every child has the tools they need to thrive.
