Southwest Dubois teachers Awarded Education Foundation Grants

Two Southwest Dubois teachers received grants this year from the Southwest Dubois Education Foundation to expand early literacy opportunities for elementary students. Rachel Hopf of Holland Elementary and Hannah Doersam of Huntingburg Elementary were selected for funding aimed at supporting reading development among young learners. 

Hopf, who has been teaching for five years with Southwest Dubois, sought funding for a new phonics program specially designed for preschool classrooms. Recognizing the difficulties that come with teaching phonics skills to young students, she collaborated with preschool teachers Gretchen Weyerbacher and Kaelynn Messmer to identify possible solutions. “So, we researched different preschool-based resources that focus on how to teach it in a way that is engaging and appropriate for early learners. When I saw this grant available, I knew it was time to apply and see if we could bring this resource into our preschools.” 

Doersam, a kindergarten teacher in her fourth year with Southwest Dubois, received grant funding for bilingual literacy kits intended for students to use at home with their families. The kits include materials in both English and Spanish to facilitate parent involvement in reading activities. Doersam said the project was inspired by a desire to provide students with enjoyable literacy experiences outside the classroom while also giving families accessible tools to support learning at home. She said, “It means a lot to have support because it helps bring classroom ideas to life and gives students opportunities they may not otherwise have.” 

The Southwest Dubois Education Foundation is a nonprofit organization that supports Southwest Dubois students and staff with scholarships, classroom innovation grants and district projects. Financial support for the foundation may be made through memorial donations, retirement account gifts, planned giving, and direct donations. 

For additional information, contact [email protected]. 

 - Drew Hasselbring