Teachers and students at Circle Cross Ranch K8 in San Tan Valley, are starting the school year with new tools to help them learn more about history and social science thanks to a grant by SRP. The History and Social Science Grant program, which awarded more than $32,000 to 16 schools, provides a unique opportunity for schools and teachers to develop projects and programs that improve student performance in the interrelated disciplines of history, geography, civics, government, and economics. Grants are up to $2,500 per school.

The funds received are being utilized to purchase globes and write and wipe maps for students to use when they are learning specific geography concepts. When students return to campus, they can put a map on their desks while the teacher will have a large map for illustration of concepts. Teachers will also use new mapping centers during small group instruction as well as informational text for teachers to use while reading out loud to their classes.

Salt River Project annually contributes more than $1.3 million to education initiatives, grants and partnerships and provides free training and resources to educators throughout the state. To learn more about SRP Grants for Teachers and get grant-writing tips, visit www.srpnet.com/education.