Showcase: Supporting Student Growth Through Play - A Grant in Action

At SCSDEF, we are proud to support innovative and meaningful educational experiences that help students grow not just academically, but socially and emotionally. Grant recipient, Kristina DeAngelo is a Speech Language Pathologist who deeply understands the importance of language development. DeAngelo recently used SCSDEF funding to bring age-appropriate games and activities into her Mont Pleasant Middle School classroom—and the impact was immediate and inspiring.

The purpose of the grant was simple but powerful: to provide students with engaging games and activities that promote language development and pragmatic skills in a social setting. By creating a fun and safe atmosphere, students were encouraged to interact with one another, practice communication skills, and most importantly: enjoy learning.

The results spoke for themselves. Students were thrilled to have a variety of games to choose from, often choosing to participate even during their lunch periods. They learned how to follow directions, play cooperatively, and in many cases, even took on leadership roles by teaching their peers how to play. These activities were seamlessly incorporated into both pullout sessions and classroom time, maximizing their reach and effectiveness.

Like all great learning experiences, this project came with its own set of challenges—primarily finding games that could accommodate different group sizes. However, the success of engaging students in a positive, inclusive atmosphere far outweighed these limitations.

One of the most valuable lessons learned was just how open and eager students are to try new things when they feel safe and supported. Watching students gain confidence and joy through shared play was a highlight for both the students and the educator.

We’re incredibly grateful to have played a part in bringing these joyful, skill-building moments to life. At SCSDEF, we believe that when students are engaged, they thrive—and this grant was a beautiful example of that in action.