Holy Apostles Preschool teacher receives grant for ‘classroom makeover’

By Veronica Ambuul

(PHOTO: Holy Apostles Preschool teacher Samantha Ross (center) receives a check for $1,000 from representatives of Colorado Springs Utilities on July 28. The funds were used to purchase toys and other materials for a classroom makeover.)

COLORADO SPRINGS. Samantha Ross, the lead teacher for three-year-olds at Holy Apostles Preschool, was awarded a $1,000 grant from Colorado Springs Utilities for a “classroom makeover.” The grant was awarded through the utility company’s Community Focus Fund and was used to purchase new materials for the classroom. Robyn Tyboroski, assistant teacher at Holy Apostles Preschool, nominated Ross for the grant.

Colorado Springs Utilities representatives presented Ross with a check on July 28 at the preschool, and she was able to use the funds to purchase a variety of supplies and materials before the start of school in mid-August.

New items being enjoyed by three-year-olds in Ross’ classroom include an easel for drawing and painting, a toy kitchen set and other items designed to help students learn new skills and express their creativity.

“Mrs. Ross bears a wonderful presence as a lead teacher in the three-year-old classroom,” said McKenna Anderson, Director of Holy Apostles Preschool. “She is passionate about teaching our youngest learners. She spends extra time to set up a learning environment to excite three-year- olds. Her students are striving both socially and academically.”

 “Each week, she adapts her lessons to meet the needs of a variety of learners,” Anderson said.

“Mrs. Ross works at an educational resources store, so she has firsthand insight into the new products for preschoolers and shares those resources with our preschool.”