Torralba Earns Two Grants to Enhance Learning

VISTA & MAST Teacher Kortni Torralba learned she is the recipient of classroom grants through the Dollar General Literacy Foundation and the Oklahoma State Department of Education. She applied for both during the spring 2024 semester.  

 

The Dollar General Literacy Foundation Grant of $3,500 will be used for the Moore Alternative School & Treatment (MAST) program. On her application, Torralba called the initiative, "Book Dollars for Book Scholars." The funds may be used to purchase books for Torralba's classroom. A list of this year's grant award winners has been posted on our website, www.dgliteracy.org.

 

Torralba also co-wrote the Oklahoma State Department of Education 2024-25 CLASS Grant with VISTA History and Art Teacher Tamara Miller. The $4,919.14 grant funds the purchase of embroidery and looming textiles and supplies that VISTA programs use in their curriculum. Torralba explained that the MPS Foundation provided looms for MAST through a grant and it was successful among students.

 

"We decided to try to fund looms for the students at VISTA and embroidery kits for both programs. This grant can help us provide real-life skills for our students in clothing care," she said.  

 

In a notification email sent by the OSDE it says, "This is a fantastic achievement and a testament to your dedication and passion for providing the best learning experience for your students. Your commitment to enhancing your classroom environment and fostering a love of learning is truly inspiring. This grant will undoubtedly allow you to implement creative and impactful ideas that will greatly benefit your students."

 

Torralba said many of the materials requested are reusable and durable. In their request were classroom kits for 30 students, a loom, embroidery hoops, needles, and thread.

 

Additionally, Voya Financial® notified her of being selected to receive a $2,000 Voya Unsung Heroes® Award this week. Her application is now in the running to receive an additional $5,000, $10,000, or $25,000 award, with applicant notifications to happen in October.

"This grant will fund a metal stamping unit for VISTA programs. Metal stamping has proven to be a unit that our students enjoy but initial investment costs can be prohibitive. This grant will fund the purchase of alphabet stamp sets that can be used for years to come," said Torralba. 

 

Learn more about MPS alternative learning options here.