Safe Saws for Creative Minds

Megan Danner, the Social Emotional Creative Arts (SECA) Instructor from Engleman Elementary wanted her students to be able to apply their math, science and reading skills in an engaging and creative way to reinforce their competencies in these subjects. Through her resourceful educating spirit, Danner applied for a Classroom Grant through the Grand Island Public Schools Foundation. The Foundation was thrilled to award Danner with her Classroom Grant this past October for her Safe Saws (ChompSaws) for Creative Minds: Empowering K–5 Students in STEAM and Social Emotional Learning grant application. Engleman Educator Danner is thrilled to be able to bring this classroom dream to reality stating, “I am beyond thankful and humbled to have received this grant for these ChompSaws. These saws help to spark the creativity and the hands-on learning experiences of our students. It’s been so exciting to see the students communicate in groups with their classmates to create an idea, draw it out and then use the ChompSaws to bring their thoughts to life! I can't wait for our art show next month so everyone can see what our students are capable of creating.”

This exciting initiative is set to transform hands-on learning by introducing eight child-safe electric saws—tools specifically designed for students ages five and up. Built with advanced safety features, these saws allow students to safely and easily cut and shape cardboard and lightweight materials, bringing their imaginations to life.

The saws will be central to both Science Technology Engineering Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) and Social Emotional Creative Arts (SECA) classes, enabling students to move beyond drawing and into the thrilling process of sketching, cutting, and assembling real sculptures and engineering projects. This tangible, hands-on experience is a powerful catalyst for academic growth, reinforcing competencies in:

•    Math and Science: Through design, measurement, and construction.
•    Literacy and Art: Through planning and creative expression.
•    Social-Emotional Learning (SEL): Fostering vital skills like collaboration, perseverance, and responsible decision-making.

Crucially, this project champions equity by providing all students, including English language learners and those with disabilities, with high-quality, engaging, and creative learning experiences. This investment will directly benefit over 420 students at Engleman Elementary and extend its impact to additional students at Stolley Park, including participants in the vital Newcomer program. By empowering students with these innovative tools, the project directly aligns with district goals to empower, personalize, design, and collaborate for the success of 460 students total.

Executive Director of the Grand Island Public Schools Foundation, Kari Hooker-Leep had the opportunity to catch the Engleman students in action with their saws. Inspired by the experience, Hooker-Leep stated, "Watching these students flex their creative muscles with the ChompSaws was a joy. There is nothing quite like the moment a young mind realizes that with their own hands and a bit of machinery, they can turn a flat idea into a three-dimensional masterpiece."

The GIPS Foundation considers it an honor to serve as the bridge, connecting dedicated donors with GIPS educators to fund essential resources that elevate classroom learning and bring innovative teaching to life. Danner emphasizes the impact of such initiatives stating, “I can not thank you enough for making this a possibly with this grant. I am forever thankful and appreciative for the foundation and all of the many donors that make things like this happen for our students.”