Dearborn Co. Retired Teachers Award Grants for 2024-25 School Year

Fifteen educators received funding.

Dr. Andrew Jackson with Andrea Engel-Dixon, Amanda Gulley, and Samantha Morgan. Photo provided.

(Dearborn County, Ind.) – Several educators throughout Dearborn County have received generous grants thanks to the work of the Dearborn County Retired Teachers Foundation, Inc.

This week, the organization announced that Sunman-Dearborn teachers Andrea Engel-Dixon, Amanda Gulley, and Samantha Morgan have been awarded a $5,000 grant given by the Dearborn Community Foundation for their development of a neurodiversity affirming environment at their school.

Engel-Dixon serves as an Occupational Therapist, while Gulley and Morgan are both Intensive Academic Teachers at North Dearborn Elementary School.

Working with school superintendent Dr. Andrew Jackson, the team recognized the increase in the number of students identified as having autism in their school. Autistic students process sensory information differently than other students making it difficult for them to engage in public settings where they are sometimes unable to control the environmental attributes of that setting.

The Sunman-Dearborn team identified a need for a movement lab, a relaxation station, and an alternative way for students to move without having to leave the classroom. Under-desk pedal bikes, under-desk elliptical machines, rocking sensory chairs, bosu balls, standing desks, balance boards, and under-desk leg/foot swings were purchased to help students successfully participate in regular classroom activities.

“The impact of such a room extends beyond the immediate benefits for the students; it fosters a more inclusive educational atmosphere and supports the dedicated educators and staff in their efforts to provide tailored and effective instruction,” said Principal Tom Black.

In total, the Dearborn County Retired Teachers Foundation awarded 15 grants to local schools for the 2024-25 school year. View a list of award recipients here.

Photo provided.