Thomas Beck of E.B. Ellington Elementary School, along with Brooke McLoughlin and Jennie Church of Johns Island Elementary School, were awarded Berkeley Electric Cooperative Bright Ideas Grants, according to a May 13 announcement.
The grants aim to support innovative educational projects in Charleston County schools. The recognition highlights efforts by local educators to enhance student learning through creative classroom initiatives.
At E.B. Ellington Elementary, Beck’s project will focus on building foundational math skills through engaging games and activities. The approach is designed to help students work together in a supportive environment that builds confidence, encourages collaboration, and fosters a more positive view of math.
McLoughlin and Church at Johns Island Elementary plan to use their grant funds for the school’s STEAM program by introducing “Innovation Stations – STEAM on Wheels.” This initiative includes Cardboard Creation Carts equipped with tools such as ChompSaws and MakeDo kits. These mobile carts will be shared throughout the school, providing students hands-on opportunities to design, build, and explore new concepts.
The awards were presented during the Berkeley Electric Co-op Bright Ideas 5K and Awards Ceremony at Cypress Gardens on April 25.
