Dragon Patrol Awards Fall Grants to JCSD Educators

JHS students celebrate Ms. Palmer and Ms. Noe and their check for $750 from the JCS Foundation.

JHS students celebrate Ms. Palmer and Ms. Noe and their check for $750 from the JCS Foundation.

As the Johnston Foundation Dragon Patrol made their rounds through Johnston schools on October 18, they carried balloons, band instruments, and big checks. Big checks for Johnston educators to purchase extra equipment, supplies, or software to enhance student learning.

The Dragon Patrol has been around for years. It’s how the Johnston Community School Foundation celebrates the efforts of teachers and staff who apply for funding for items that give their classrooms and students something extra – above and beyond – the normal learning tools they have.

This fall, four grants were awarded to educators in the district. They are:

Ann Wiley, JCSD Learning Coordinator of Student Engagement
$1,500 Computer Science is Elementary – STEM Integration

Nicole Beer, Johnston Middle School physical education teacher
$3,813.60 Kickboxing Equipment

Gabe Schultz, Summit Middle School physical education teacher
$2,166.92 Table Tennis Equipment

Lisa Noe and Jenny Palmer, Johnston High School teachers
$750 Stepping Towards Success Senior Banquet

To spread awareness of the program and enhance community partnerships, the Foundation frequently partners with local companies to purchase equipment or services that align with the grant. When the big day comes, members of the Foundation, along with JHS cheerleaders, the Dragon, and band members, parade through the hallways, letting everyone know something special is about to happen.

“Going on the Dragon Patrol and handing out grants is always a highlight for the Foundation, said Brad Ortmeier, JCS Foundation president. “We know these dollars will be put to good use by hundreds of students for many years to come. The Foundation is committed to supporting our students, educators and schools to promote educational excellence.”

Learn more about the Johnston Community School Foundation here.