In 2024, the LTC proudly awarded four micro grants to Illinois school districts. These grants – with funds from our annual charity golf outing – were designed to spark classroom innovation and provide students with access to enriching, technology-driven learning experiences.
A full school year on, these grant recipients have brought that vision to life. From 3D printing and solar-powered cities to intergenerational coding and digital art, their initiatives reached learners from elementary school through high school, and in one case, even extended to senior citizens.
Each project has also been a unique reflection of its community’s needs and goals, illustrating technology’s power to personalize learning and prepare students for future careers.
This spring, we checked back in with each grant-winning classroom to learn more about their project’s lasting impact:
McLean County Unit School District 5
At Normal West High School, high school computer science students led the Tech for All intergenerational digital literacy initiative.
With grant funding, students hosted a K-8 Coding Night, mentored 4th graders using Micro:bit and Raspberry Pi kits, and even led workshops for senior citizens at Evergreen Village on internet safety and smartphone basics.
“The LTC mini grant empowered our high school students to become community leaders,” shared STEM teacher April Schermann. “Through hands-on outreach events with senior citizens and K-8 students, they not only deepened their understanding of coding and digital literacy but also helped bridge the generational tech divide.”
Pikeland Community School
Pikeland teachers expanded their elementary STEAM program with two hands-on projects that reached around 250 students.
Through their partnership with the Smart Grids for Schools initiative at Illinois State University, fifth graders learned circuitry and design principles and used those skills to build wind turbines and solar-powered model communities, exploring alternative energy in action.
Younger students used Makey Makey kits and Scratch coding to experiment with circuits and create interactive game controllers out of Play-Doh.
“This mini grant allowed us to expand our school’s STEM initiative in several ways,” said Becky Barger, media specialist. “We appreciate the support of this program as we continue to grow!”
Earlville Community Unit School District 9
Earlville brought 3D printing to life with their new, grant-funded Bambu Lab X1C 3D printer. Career and technical education (CTE) students learned every step of the 3D printing process, from digital modeling in TinkerCAD and Blender to slicing and multicolor printing. They were challenged to design both functional and artistic pieces, then present their creative process to their peers. The project combined problem-solving, collaboration, and real-world tech application.
“Our students have really enjoyed using our new Bambu X1 Carbon 3D printer to learn new skills, solve problems, and create,” said Mandy Ossman, technology director/CTE teacher.
United Township High School Area Career Center
In East Moline, students leveled up their artistic potential through the Empowering Digital Artistry initiative.
Grant funding provided high quality drawing tablets for advanced graphic arts students, who used them to develop skills in vector illustration, logo design, and digital painting.
Tablets also supported portfolio development and capstone projects, giving students tangible outcomes that will serve them beyond graduation.
“Thanks to the generous grant, our students now have access to state-of-the-art technology that enhances their artistic capabilities and fosters innovative thinking,” said Mackenzie Jackson, graphic arts teacher.
“The tablets have enriched our curriculum, empowered student-led enterprises, and inspired the next generation of artists.”
Our 2024 mini grant recipients illustrate what’s possible when educators are equipped with the tools and support necessary to think boldly. These four projects not only improved digital literacy and creativity, but also highlighted that when schools are given the opportunity to innovate, amazing things happen for students, for teachers, and for entire communities.
Looking ahead, 2025’s mini grant application will open this coming fall. Stay tuned to the LTC newsletter or social media for updates.
You can also chip in to support these grants at the LTC Gives Golf Outing. Slots are still available for single golfers and four-person teams. Registration closes July 9 →
Tim directs the Learning Technology Center, providing strategic leadership, expertise, and operational management for statewide technology and digital learning initiatives.
Kristi leads the Communications team and works to propel the LTC's image through consistent messaging, strategy, and community engagement.
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