In Newton Middle School’s bustling STEM lab, students don safety goggles and collaborate on woodworking projects using seven new cordless drills provided through an LPS Foundation educator grant.

Lightweight and easy to use, the new drills are perfectly suited for students gaining confidence with tools. For many, it’s their first hands-on experience. “I’ve never even used a drill before,” one student shared. “They’re really fun to use.” Another added, “I’ve watched my grandfather use these before, but now I get to use them myself.”

Beyond mastering technique, woodworking sparks creativity, strengthens problem-solving skills, and builds patience and focus. It also improves coordination and brings math and science lessons to life. 

Students are clearly enjoying the process of learning by doing. This grant was one of 74 awarded last year through the LPS Foundation’s “Grants to Educators” Program.