Delaware Retired School Personnel Association

Supporting mental health is an important part of aging well.

DRSPA Grants Make a Difference

From self-printed robots, to books and games, baby chicks, and a giant inflatable obstacle course, funds from the 2025 DRSPA “Partners in Education” grants made a difference in schools around Delaware.

Since 2014, DRSPA has awarded more than $92,000 for a diverse range of creative projects in public schools throughout the state, supported by member donations. For this most recent round of 13 winners, DRSPA received a record-breaking 39 applications.

Grants worth up to $1,000 are awarded by a committee of the Executive Board, which uses a rubric to score applications. Grant winners recently reported to DRSPA that the grant had an impact.

“The grant for the inflatable obstacle course has made a positive impact on the students at Linden Hill Elementary by promoting physical activity in a fun and engaging way,” said Physical Education Teacher Charmaine Davis. “ Students have been excited to participate, which has encouraged teamwork, confidence, and healthy competition among their peers.”

Odessa High School Teacher Devon, in the Appoquinimink School District, expressed her gratitude for the funding that made it possible to purchase “The Butchering Art” for her anatomy and physiology class. “This book increased students’ vocabulary and thinking skills,” she said. “It also provided them with an insight into the history of medicine.”

More than 130 first-grade children had a memorable week at Georgetown Elementary School as they watched chicks peck their way out of eggs and hatch.

Teacher Michelle Scarborough said the whole school got involved. “What an absolutely exciting week for not only all of our First Graders, but some visiting Kindergarten classes, as well as so many curious teachers, students, and staff at Georgetown Elementary.”

Sean Sherlock, from Delcastle Technical High School, highlighted the benefits of a new 3D printer, stating, “Thank you so much for the funding for our 3D printer! It's been great to have the Science Olympiad students use it for building their devices and for the science students to get 3D models for supporting their learning.”

Sherlock shared that students Emily and Justin used 3D printed parts to build and code their electric vehicle for the Science Olympiad, earning medals for fifth place at the state competition.

Kindergartners in the Townsend Early Childhood Center were immersed in Spanish culture through play when Teacher Mariannys Velasquez was able to purchase authentic books, costumes, instruments and playthings. “The grant funding made a tremendous impact in my classroom by providing authentic resources and materials that enhanced student engagement and enriched learning experiences,” said Velasquez.

Alexa Slavin, 4th Grade Teacher, Townsend Elementary School, said she saw improvement among students. “The grant supported my fourth-grade classroom by providing novel studies that helped students grow as readers and thinkers,” she said. “Through these books, students improved their reading comprehension, vocabulary, and discussion skills while building a stronger love for reading. The novel studies also encouraged teamwork, meaningful conversations, and deeper connections to the characters and stories.”

These dedicated educators demonstrate how grants not only enhance academic learning but also foster creativity, inclusion, and personal growth among students. Their gratitude and enthusiasm highlight the importance of continued support for educational initiatives.

Thanks to all involved in a terrific annual luncheon today of the Kent/Sussex DRSPA. All went well, from the planning (thanks Ann, Janet and Steve) to the speakers (thanks Joanna Adams, Office of Pensions, and Andrew Parsell from Parsell Funeral Homes) to the food (thanks Nicola Pizza) Thanks as well to the DRSPA members who came out!

Did you hear the news about your medical benefits? How about what's new with the pension? Come hear informative updates and speakers at the annual Kent/Sussex County meeting of the Delaware Retired School Personnel Association on Thursday, May 14, 2026 at Nicola Pizza in Lewes at 8:45am. Meet up with former friends and colleagues and enjoy a continental breakfast and lunch. Call (302) 257-2209 until Wednesday May 13 at 2pm to save yourself a seat.

If you are looking for something to do in May here is a list of events.

We have 17 days till our Kent/Sussex County meeting in Lewes, Delaware. If you have not sent in your registration there is still time. If you did not receive an invite please contact us at [email protected].