Valley View teachers get their 'Wish'

Two Valley View third-grade teachers got their wish for STEM activities and supplies, thanks to an Idaho State Lottery "Classroom Wishlist" grant.

The two teachers — Shelly Hoisington and Kelsey Rice — decided to apply for the grant after attending a summer STEM conference sponsored by Boise State University. 

"The conference provided lots of information and hands-on learning opportunities," Hoisington said. "We learned a multitude of strategies designed to integrate STEM into various subject areas."

The third-grade teachers said they were excited about the different ideas and couldn't wait to bring them into the classroom. However, they lacked the supplies and resources to make it happen.

That is where the Idaho State Lottery Classroom Wishlist made their wish come true. The Classroom Wishlist is funded by the Idaho State Lottery and awards $10,000 each month to teachers who have a specific need in their classrooms. 

Hoisington applied for a grant and 10 days later was contacted by Idaho Lottery folks that Valley View's wish was granted and the school would be receiving the STEM items for third grade.

Although the grant was written with third graders in mind, Hoisington said the items and materials are available to all teachers at the school. The STEM activity items and materials are kept on two rolling carts and can easily be moved from classroom to classroom. 

Items purchased by the grant include Legos, strategy games, puzzles, magnets, and so much more, Hoisington said. 

"Bringing STEM into the classroom will encourage students to think, create, and explore," she added. "Hands-on experiences offered to students allow them to think outside of the box and build a foundation of strong critical thinking skills. The activities provided will also promote collaboration and communication among peers as they work together to solve problems and create."