Mount Pleasant, Texas – Misty Clay, a gifted‑and‑talented teacher at Harts Bluff Independent School District, was awarded a $1,500 grant from the One Class at a Time program, a partnership between KTBS 3 and Barksdale Federal Credit Union. The grant will fund a new hands‑on learning initiative that blends theater, STEAM concepts and teamwork for 14 elementary and middle‑school students.
Project details
The program will form two teams of seven students each – one for elementary grades and one for middle school – that will write original theatrical fables, develop characters, and create costumes, props and stage backdrops. Throughout the process, students will integrate science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics ideas as they design and construct their productions.
Students will work on the project during Friday gifted‑and‑talented sessions and after‑school workshops, applying creative thinking and technical skills. The effort will culminate in a trip to Greenville, Texas, where the teams will compete in a Destination Imagination tournament against other regional groups.
Funding use
The $1,500 award will cover art supplies, construction materials, paint, adhesives and other items needed for the theatrical builds. It will also help pay competition registration fees, transportation and meals, ensuring that no family bears a financial burden.
Clay emphasized that providing financial assistance is crucial because some students face barriers to participating in travel‑related activities. By removing those obstacles, the grant helps guarantee that all 14 participants can take part fully.
Program goals
The initiative aims to strengthen public‑speaking, collaboration, creative expression and problem‑solving skills while giving students experience working toward a shared goal. It also reinforces the district’s commitment to enriching education beyond traditional classroom instruction.
One Class at a Time, the grant‑making program run by KTBS 3 and Barksdale Federal Credit Union, awards $1,500 grants to educators and school‑based organizations throughout the Ark‑La‑Tex region. Applications are evaluated by an advisory board, with each proposal reviewed by at least three judges. Eligible applicants include teachers, parent‑teacher associations, college professors and school clubs. Projects must be educational and implemented within 90 days of receiving the award.
For more information or to apply for future grants, educators can email [email protected].
Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.
