Zeigler Subaru of Merrillville supported Salk Elementary School with a gift of $3,000 through its partnership with AdoptAClassroom.org.
Congratulations to teachers nominated by their building administrators to receive $500 each: Kristen Cueller, Carrie Brown, Lyn Dravet, Ladd Downham, Kristina Shultz and Heather Harrell.
Principal Nicholas Petralia and Assistant Principal Nikki Laird nominated the six educators for what they do not only in school but after school hours as well: clubs, committees, sponsors etc.
"I used the donation to purchase math manipulatives, flexible seating, and headphones," said Ms. Shultz. "I am so appreciative of the donation! Subaru gave me a wonderful opportunity to provide resources to my students that I wouldn’t be able to afford with my own money.
"My students have been able to use the math manipulatives in small groups. My kids are loving the wobble seats and it helps them stay focused," the third grade teacher added.
Mr. Downham, a physical education teacher, said he will use the generous donation to purchase some much needed equipment.
"There will be a variety of items that can benefit kindergarten through 4th grade students," he said. "The students will use these items to become more physically literate. With some equipment being 40 years old, I am extremely thankful to receive this wonderful gift to help upgrade equipment and benefit my students."
Ms. Harrell, a fourth grade teacher, said she has used the donation to purchase items for her classroom such as math manipulatives, computer mice for student Chromebooks, and items for guided reading groups.
"This donation was much appreciated," she said. "There are many businesses that are going through rough times, and for Subaru to choose to give back to the students in our community during this time is such an amazing thing for them to do. My students and I can't thank them enough!"
Photo back row from left: Kyle Faiman, Zeigler General Manager; Teachers Heather Harrell and Ladd Downham; Princial Petralia; front row: Assistant Principal Laird; Teachers Kristina Shultz and Kristen Cueller; Naomi Foth, Zeigler Talent and Development; and Mark Artibey, Zeigler New Car Director. Not pictured: Teachers Carrie Brown and Lyn Dravet.