A novel can invite students to consider another perspective. A musical can give young learners a chance to share their voices.
At Rummel Creek Elementary (RCE), two projects receiving 2026 J. Landon Short Mini Grants for Educators celebrate the connections students make through literature and performance.
Congratulations to the following grant recipients:
Grant recipient | Project |
|---|---|
Lou Ann Timmreck | Everyone Deserves the Chance to Restart novel study |
Carissa Kissick | 1st Grade Musical |
Timmreck’s Everyone Deserves the Chance to Restart novel study puts reading and reflection at the center of learning. Its focus on a fresh start offers a meaningful starting point for discussing choices, growth and how people see one another.
A shared novel study gives students opportunities to examine characters’ experiences, support their interpretations with evidence and listen to classmates’ ideas. These conversations help readers deepen their understanding while considering perspectives beyond their own.
Kissick’s 1st Grade Musical highlights the joy of learning and creating together. Musical performance offers young students opportunities to practice listening, expression and collaboration as they contribute to a shared goal.
Preparing for a performance also gives students a reason to practice, persevere and encourage one another. Each contribution becomes part of something the group creates together.
Through different forms of storytelling, these projects support literacy, creativity and connection while helping students build confidence in what they can contribute.
Made possible through generous community support, the J. Landon Short Mini Grants for Educators help turn creative ideas into meaningful classroom experiences. It’s #CollectiveGreatness in action.
You can help make great things happen for kids, too. Visit SBISD’s Engage page to learn how to support students, classrooms and schools.