River’s Edge Elementary Students Get Hands-On Learning Experience Through County Grants

Imagine being a kid and getting to scurry into the Chickahominy River with rubber waders on up to your stomach and a fishing net in your hand. Now imagine getting to do this at school in science class.

August 31, 2011; 1:55 PM • by Downtown Short Pump Staff

Over the past four years, River’s Edge Elementary School has received books, school supplies and research equipment in the name of interactive learning from the Henrico Education Foundation (HEF).

With these many resources, students have been able to learn in a hands-on and innovative way, including getting to trudge right into the knee-deep water in the school’s backyard.

River’s Edge is one of 15 schools to receive money for resources from HEF Cycle-One grants for this school year. More than $28,500 has been given by the foundation to enrich HCPS students’ lives with iPads, exercise equipment, video equipment and scientific research equipment to name a few.

“We are always looking for any above and beyond resources apart from just a basic textbook,” said Shannon Hodges, a resource teacher at River’s Edge. “And HEF is such a great foundation. We want our students to be active, and making it fun helps build the interest of the kids.”

It has been the ongoing mission of HEF to support the students, teachers and staff of Henrico County Public Schools by promoting innovative educational opportunities, recognizing outstanding achievements and developing community collaborations.

“I’m really excited about the grants this year,” said HEF’s Program Manager Paula Roop. “These grant requests are some of the most original we have seen; it shows schools are looking to engage students in a different way.”

The next HEF grant cycle will begin with grant applications due on January 6, 2012.