Sutton Elementary Student Council members worked together to apply for a grant to help purchase a new sign and update the landscaping for the elementary entrance.
In the spring, student council adviser and third-grade teacher Tessa Parrish found a post from POET about their grant program, and shared the idea of applying with student council members.
Students applied for a POET Community Impact Grant in May, which is a one-time grant, designed to support local nonprofits, schools, churches, earth-friendly groups, and individuals committed to leading projects that will benefit their communities.
The grant can be used for improving local infrastructure, fostering education, or advancing sustainability efforts.
The sign and landscaping in front of the elementary entrance had been deteriorating for a while, and the students were eager to revamp it, Parrish said.
As part of the application process, each student wrote a letter expressing how much it would mean to them for an updated look to the school.
“Their student council goal this year is to make the school feel like a home—a place where students feel safe, welcomed, loved, and excited to come each day,” Parrish said.
They learned they’d been awarded a grant for $2,500 in July. The sign was designed and installed by Precision Signs and Graphics of Bruning; it was officially placed Sept. 25.
In addition to the sign, new rocks and plants were placed in the elementary entrance.
Come spring, student council members will finish the landscaping project, putting their finishing touches on their vision for the entrance of Sutton Elementary.
