12 Days of Innovation makes SPS teachers merry
Betsy Cannella wasn't quite sure what she had won.
She had seen on Twitter the announcement that she had won $500 during 12 Days of Innovation, but she didn't know any details.
On a sunny December morning, Kickapoo High School science teacher Betsy Cannella was awarded the first of 12 $500 classroom grants as part of 12 Days of Innovation. In its fourth year, the annual giving campaign celebrates and recognizes teachers who are embracing and implementing innovative practices for their students.
"Ms. Cannella is really deserving of this award," said Dr. Powers, who nominated Cannella and several other KHS educators for $500 grants. "Last year, she came to me and requested that she take on a class of students who had failed Physics I at least once. She's using a different approach to help those students learn and be successful. It may look different, but they're learning."
Cannella is one of 12 educators who will receive $500 to spend on their classrooms. SPS principals were given the opportunity to nominate innovative educators in their buildings this fall, said Christine Jones, coordinator of summer learning and student experiences.
"12 Days of Innovation really is the most wonderful time of the year," said Jones. "It's a great program that both recognizes teachers who are meeting student needs, while also providing additional funds to support those learning experiences in the classroom that are engaging, relevant and personal."
Since 2015, SPS has awarded nearly $100,000 in classroom grants directly to teachers, librarians, counselors, principals and other educators.