We did it again!  The Southeast Polk Education Association, in conjunction with the Iowa State Education Association, was able to provide a book for each preschooler in the district again this year.  Recently, preschoolers across the district received their own copy of The Gruffalo, by Julia Donaldson with pictures by Axel Scheffler.  

Tracy Dawson, a Spring Creek 6th grade teacher, applied for a grant through the Iowa State Education Association’s Community Outreach program to purchase a book for each of the district’s preschoolers.  Tracy was informed that she had been awarded the $500 grant at the end of October and by the middle of November a free book was in the hands of every preschooler across the district.

“It is so important to establish a love for reading at an early age, I am very grateful for their help.  These smiles say it all!”

The Iowa State Education Association Community Outreach Grants help local members and/or local associations collaborate and create opportunities for community service or school projects. The outreach grants have turned out to be among the most popular ISEA programs and awards have been made in all parts of the state.  

A special thank you goes out to the Iowa State Education Association and the Southeast Polk Education Association for their assistance with this project.