The grant was awarded on December 3 with (l-r) Jessica Fuller, GSCF Grants & Scholarships Coordinator; Lisa Ochs, Physical Therapist; Mike Lowers, CKCIE Executive Director; and Brandee Mayginnes, GSCF Director of Grants & Scholarships.The $5,000 funding from two GSCF sources, the Fund for Early Childhood Care, Education & Development and the Kansas Health Foundation Fund, comes just in time. Some of the Central Kansas Cooperative in Education (CKCIE) orthopedic equipment used for students’ physical and occupational therapy was purchased 20 years ago and needs to be replaced.
“The equipment is individualized and customized to meet our students’ unique needs from ages 3 to 21 years,” said Mike Lowers, CKCIE executive director. The grant funding targets two types of equipment, pacer and crocodile gait trainers that provide assistance with walking. Lowers added, “It is exciting to see students literally learn to walk with these mechanical supports and, in many cases, learn to walk unassisted as they grow up.”
The new equipment will help students overcome physical barriers and will lead to increased self-reliance and workforce capability. Ultimately, the goal is to level the playing field for all students in an effort to empower students to have a life of self-fulfillment.
Local partnerships and support such as this Greater Salina Community Foundation grant funding help create amazing opportunities for student success at USD 305.