Concern for community is one of the Seven Cooperative Principles South Plains Electric Cooperative follows to bolster their efforts to give back. Operation Round Up and its board of directors created a mini-grant program that supports local teachers and helps fund classroom projects or educational field trips. This program is just one of the many ways SPEC supports the community to enhance the lives of members and their families.

Anjanette Franklin is an early childhood special education teacher at Slaton ISD who received a 2022 mini-grant from Operation Round Up. An abundance of science materials and tools were purchased and enabled Franklin to prepare a classroom environment for maximum curiosity and learning for Slaton ISD’s special education three-to four-year-old learners.

A quintessential aspect of facilitating learning for Franklin’s classroom was the hands-on materials used to supplement lessons being taught. X-rays and puzzles of the human body, as well as books spanning topics from humans to plant and animal life cycles, have been used to spark interest in the world of science. Microscopes and magnifying glasses became favorites of Franklin’s students as they are always eager to investigate something new.

In upcoming semesters, investigations will continue when new science instruments are allowing students to dive deeper into their learning. The mini-grant Franklin received greatly impacted her students and will continue to enhance their curiosity and learning.