Horizon School Division is grateful to the Ministry of Education and the Teacher Innovation and Support Fund for supporting three teacher-led projects in our schools for the 2025-26 school year. This investment will give students meaningful, hands-on learning experiences in STEM, media production, and land-based education across multiple grades.
This funding gives our students learning experiences that spark curiosity, build confidence, and prepare them for the future. Whether they’re caring for hens, producing digital media, or exploring STEM through a Lab on Wheels, these grants help teachers turn creative ideas into real-world learning. We appreciate the ongoing support from the Minister of Education and are proud of our staff for leading this work,” said Kevin C. Garinger, Director of Education.
The three projects awarded to Horizon are as follows:
Bulyea Elementary School - Learn by Doing
Bulyea Elementary School was awarded $4,000 to support its “Learn by Doing” project. With this funding, the school welcomed five laying hens, winterized the coop, and purchased supplies that allow students to take responsibility for daily animal care. Students feed the hens, collect eggs, and observe their behaviour, building confidence, responsibility, and a sense of care for living things.
This project is a powerful example of community, learning, and environmental stewardship in action. Integrated across grades through outdoor education, it supports meaningful learning about life cycles, food systems, and sustainability. Eggs collected are used in the school’s breakfast program, and compost from the coop helps nourish the school garden. We are deeply grateful to the Teacher Innovation and Support Fund for supporting hands-on learning that helps students grow through real-life experiences.
William Derby School - Communications Media
William Derby School received $25,000 in funding to create a Communications Media space for students in Grades 7–12. The project supports Art Education and English Language Arts by integrating photography, video production, and media literacy, with a long-term goal of expanding into a full Communications Media course.
This grant will give students access to cameras, editing software, and production equipment, allowing them to transform creative interests into practical skills that can lead to post-secondary studies and future careers in media.
Cudworth School - Portable STEM and Technology Lab
Cudworth School has been awarded $75,000 to develop a Portable STEM and Technology Lab on Wheels. This mobile lab will include robotics kits, coding tools, electronics, 3D printers, and mechanical maker equipment that can roll into any classroom, providing hands-on STEM learning for all K–12 students.
The project is designed to increase student engagement, strengthen curriculum outcomes, and build skills in creativity, critical thinking, problem-solving, and collaboration. Students are eager to explore robotics, engineering, and digital design through this innovative new learning environment.