The Washington State School Retirees Association recently awarded 20 classroom grants to members who are currently teaching in some of the 13 school districts in Island and Snohomish counties which the group represents. Forty-two teachers from the districts submitted applications, and grants were given to six of those districts for all grade levels, from kindergarten through high school. Included in the districts were South Whidbey, Arlington, Everett, Marysville, Snohomish and Stanwood. 

Teachers outlined a number of different ideas to enhance learning for their students, including supplemental reading materials, field trips and special projects tied to standard curriculum.  

On South Whidbey, teachers received $100 each to help realize their plans, including Caryn Ploof, Robin Roberts and Valerie Twomey of South Whidbey Elementary.