Staff Reports | Community Updates
The Scottsdale Unified School District announced the 2025–26 recipients of its Innovation Startup Grants, recognizing educators who transformed teaching and learning through creativity, collaboration and hands-on exploration.
The grants supported projects that inspired student engagement, deepened critical thinking and prepared learners for a rapidly changing world. Each of the selected projects exemplified SUSD’s commitment to fostering innovation across grade levels and disciplines.
2025–2026 Innovation Startup Grant Recipients:
Mohave Math and Science Academy: Scaling STEM Innovation Across Mohave Middle School
Applicant: Michael Twilling, Mohave Math and Science Academy
This project expands Mohave Middle School’s Innovation Center into a school-wide hub where students design, build, and collaborate across subjects. Grant funds will provide essential tools and materials to support hands-on, interdisciplinary STEM projects that engage all learners.
Tavan Makers in Motion
Applicants: Katie Khan & Susan Green, Tavan Elementary School
Tavan’s makerspace will provide students with hands-on opportunities to design, create, and solve problems through authentic, cross-curricular projects. This space will foster creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration, preparing students for future academic and career success.
Laguna Innovators in STEAM
Applicants: Stephanie Shamy, Dianna Davis, & Brian Vogan, Laguna Elementary School
Laguna’s project will integrate robotics and other STEAM technologies into the makerspace, giving students in Pre-K–5 access to innovative, hands-on learning. Partnerships with local schools and organizations will strengthen the program and build future-ready skills.
Coronado Innovation Lab
Applicant: Jenni Kinsey, Coronado High School
This project transforms an existing classroom into an inclusive makerspace with immersive Augmented Reality tools for special education students with cognitive and motor delays. It removes learning barriers and fosters creativity, hands-on exploration, and meaningful engagement in STEM.
Redfield’s Unlocking Learning for Student Innovation
Applicant: Ginna Cummings, Redfield Elementary School
This project will engage students in collaborative problem-solving through gamified, hands-on learning experiences. Tools will be customized for all learners, with targeted supports for English Language Development, to build critical thinking, teamwork, and content mastery.
