Three Eldorado CUSD #4 Teachers Awarded Illinois Retired Teachers Association Foundation Grants
Eldorado Community Unit School District #4 is proud to announce that three district educators have been selected as recipients of grants from the Illinois Retired Teachers Association (IRTA) Foundation. These competitive grants support innovative classroom projects that enhance student learning and provide new educational opportunities.
Out of hundreds of applications submitted across Illinois, three Eldorado educators were selected to receive funding for their outstanding projects.
Taylor Barr, Elementary Fourth Grade Teacher
Mrs. Taylor Barr received funding to expand the grade levels "I Survived" book series collection and enhance science instruction by integrating hands-on science lessons with the popular historical fiction series. This project will allow students to make meaningful connections between literacy, history, and science while increasing student engagement and inquiry-based learning.
Ashley Volkert, District Band Instructor
Mrs. Ashley Volkert was awarded a grant to expand real-world musical performance experiences for students throughout the district. The project will provide students with additional opportunities to perform, collaborate, and experience music beyond the classroom setting, helping them develop confidence, teamwork, and a deeper appreciation for the performing arts.
Ashley Priddy, High School Art Instructor
Mrs. Ashley Priddy received funding for a cross-curricular collaborative art project connecting high school and elementary students through the creation of clay monster sculptures. This project will foster creativity, mentorship, and collaboration between students of different age groups while integrating artistic expression with literacy and storytelling.
"We are incredibly proud of Mrs. Barr, Mrs. Volkert, and Mrs. Priddy for their dedication to creating innovative learning experiences for our students," said Superintendent Cody Cusic. "These grants are a testament to the outstanding educators we have in Eldorado CUSD #4 and their commitment to providing engaging and meaningful opportunities for our students."
The Illinois Retired Teachers Association Foundation provides grants to educators throughout Illinois to support creative and impactful educational initiatives. The district extends its appreciation to the IRTA Foundation for investing in students and teachers across the state.
Congratulations to these educators on this well-deserved recognition and for continuing to lead the way in providing exceptional learning experiences for Eldorado students.