Teacher Grants thanks to our MPTO - Fuller Meadow

This Spring, our Middleton PTO offered teacher grants for our elementary schools to enrich classroom experiences. These grants aim to support innovative projects and educational resources that enhance student learning. We are very appreciative of their support for our students and staff.

1st Grade

The first grade team was able to use the grant money to give students an enriching educational experience! We purchased nonfiction books for students to read and explore as they chose an animal to learn about! Every student became an expert on their animal and we are currently creating our own research-based book to share with the school and our parents! At the end of this project, we will also tie in art standards to create a clay figure of our animal and a habitat diorama. Thank you so much for your support in creating meaningful experiences for our students!

2nd Grade

Project Description: In the spring at Fuller Meadow, 2nd grade students participate in a unit titled “Global Geography: Places and Peoples, Cultures." In studying these topics, students apply grade 2 standards for reading informational text, writing, and speaking and listening, and learn vocabulary and concepts related to history and social science. Students build on their Pre-K to grade 1 learning by concentrating on global geography, looking at reasons why people move or settle in particular places, how they keep cultural traditions alive, and how they use resources. They study these topics by exploring questions such as “What can people and cultures of other parts of the world teach us?” and “What do people do with the money they earn?” The MPTO purchased mentor texts that students used as a teaching tool for this unit.
Student Impact This grant enhanced our 2nd grade students' understanding of US and World Geography through an innovative approach utilizing mentor texts aligned with Massachusetts Social Studies Standards. Through this project, students engaged with diverse literary works that intertwine storytelling with geographical exploration, fostering a deeper understanding of cultural diversity and global interconnectedness. By integrating mentor texts into the curriculum, students will not only develop essential literacy skills but also gain geographic knowledge crucial for navigating an increasingly interconnected world. Through hands-on activities, discussions, and collaborative projects, students will actively explore geographical concepts such as continents, countries, oceans, and landmarks, while also developing critical thinking and analytical skills. This project aligns closely with Massachusetts Social Studies Standards, ensuring that students not only meet academic benchmarks but also develop a broader understanding of the world around them.

After researching their chosen country, students wrote reports, created hands-on models, and presented their country report to others in our school community. Thank you to our MPTO for making this happen.

Online Digital Resources for Animal Research

LINK to Resources