The SIA Foundation awarded grants to more than a dozen community organizations, including two for the Tippecanoe School Corporation. These grants will enhance educational opportunities for students by supporting music education and English Language (EL) learning.

Battle Ground Middle School received a check for $1,886 to purchase four contra bass xylophone bars and orff ensemble books to help expand the general music curriculum. 

“Over the last three years I have been incorporating more orff ensemble into my general music curriculum and students are at the point where they are ready to play harder music, which require contra bass xylophone bars,” says teacher Anthony Nicolia. I hope these materials will continue to inspire students and foster a lifelong appreciation for music in the community.

The second grant, totaling $1,300, will support English language learners by funding the purchase of 25 portable Wipebooks, which are dry-erase flipcharts designed for versatile use. These Wipebooks can be hung on walls, used on tables or floors, or propped up like easels.

“Teachers and tutors will be able to transform a variety of spaces into mini classrooms with ease,” says EL Instructional Coach Amy Sturgeon. “These Wipebooks will allow students to practice language skills, vocabulary and more.”