SPRINGFIELD, ILLINOIS – The Learning Technology Center (LTC) today announced the recipients of its inaugural edtech Mini Grants. These competitive grants, totaling $3,400, will support innovative educational technology initiatives across Illinois, enhancing student learning and engagement with cutting-edge resources.
“We received an incredible response to our inaugural Mini Grant, underscoring the high demand for technology in classrooms and the critical need for funding in this area,” said Tim McIlvain, executive director. “These four winning projects reflect a diverse array of initiatives that embrace career preparation, computer science, STEAM, multigenerational connections, and creative expression. We are thrilled to support these educators and their students, whose projects exemplify a powerful commitment to innovation, hands-on learning, and community impact.”
These winning projects demonstrate unique approaches to integrating technology into classrooms, fostering essential skills and enhancing digital literacy for diverse audiences, from elementary students to senior citizens:
Recipient: Mandy Ossman, Technology Director/CTE Teacher | Earlville CUSD 9
Award: $1,000
Earlville CUSD 9 plans to purchase a Bambu Lab X1C 3D printer, initially benefiting 33 CTE students by introducing them to the fundamentals of 3D printing, including design software, slicing programs, and multicolor printing capabilities.
In the technology classroom, students will take on design challenges, creating functional or artistic pieces that showcase their understanding of shape, texture, and color. They’ll also use tools like TinkerCAD and Blender to design and slice their models, then present completed projects to their peers, explaining their design process and problem-solving methods.
This printer will become a valuable, long-term asset to the school, supporting hands-on learning for students across grade levels and fostering collaboration on larger-scale projects that impact the entire K-12 building.
Recipient: April Schermann, Teacher | McLean County Unit School District 5
Award: $1,000
McLean County Unit School District 5’s grant-funded project empowers high school computer science students to lead technology workshops, enhancing digital literacy for senior citizens and K-8 students.
Using Micro:bit and Raspberry Pi kits, K-8 students will gain hands-on coding experience, while senior citizens will develop skills like internet safety and smartphone navigation. This intergenerational initiative bridges the digital divide, fosters empathy, and gives heightened school students valuable leadership and teaching experience.
With sustainable resources, the program aims to create a lasting impact across the community, nurturing a shared interest in technology and digital skills.
Recipient: Becky Barger, Media Specialist | Pikeland Community School
Award: $500
This grant will enable two STEAM projects for 3rd-5th graders, reaching around 250 students in total. The first project introduces students to renewable energy by building basic wind turbines and solar-powered models, inspired by local wind farm installations.
The second project uses Makey Makey kits to teach basic coding skills in a hands-on, creative way, reinforcing classroom lessons with interactive coding and circuitry.
Both projects aim to develop problem-solving, collaboration, and critical thinking skills, and the equipment will be reused annually as part of the school’s growing STEAM program.
Recipient: MacKenzie Jackson, ACC Graphic Arts Teacher | United Township High School Area Career Center
Award: $900
The “Empowering Digital Artistry” project will provide advanced graphic arts students with drawing tablets, enhancing their skills in digital illustration, design, and marketing.
Students will engage in hands-on learning in areas like vector graphics, logo creation, and digital painting, aligning with industry standards and preparing them for Adobe certification and career opportunities.
These tablets will be integral to the curriculum, supporting portfolio development, work-study projects, and real-world applications. The long-term investment will benefit future students, keeping the program aligned with evolving industry trends and cultivating job-ready skills in digital arts.
The 2024 LTC Awards were announced during a special ceremony at the 2024 Illinois Education and Technology Conference (IETC).
For more information on the LTC’s Mini Grants and other programs, visit our website.
The LTC extends its congratulations to these educators and schools for their creative and impactful projects. These grants represent the LTC’s ongoing dedication to supporting educational technology and fostering an environment where students, educators, and communities can thrive.
The Learning Technology Center is an Illinois State Board of Education program that supports all public K-12 districts, schools, and educators through technology initiatives, services, and professional learning opportunities.
To learn more, visit ltcillinois.org or follow us on social media (@ltcillinois on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube).
Tim directs the Learning Technology Center, providing strategic leadership, expertise, and operational management for statewide technology and digital learning initiatives.
Kristi leads the Communications team and works to propel the LTC's image through consistent messaging, strategy, and community engagement.
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