"Watch me be a sloth on the bar, Mrs. Southern."

Kindergartener Shelby and her classmates at Ford Elementary School are leaping, balancing, and soaring like animals thanks to brand-new gymnastics equipment funded by an educator grant from the LPS Foundation. Ford PE Teacher Kirsten Southern was able to purchase safety mats, balance beams, and more items for her 600-plus students.

Kirsten shared, “This equipment enhances student learning through confidence, balance, and coordination. It strengthens their physical and mental health as they work to balance and move their bodies. They also learn why it is important to step out of their comfort zone and try new things!”

The grant was one of 74 funded by the Foundation during the 2024-25 school year.  Learn more about our “Grants to Educators” program here.  The application for the 2025-26 grant cycle will open in October.