These proposals have been awarded GOInnovate Grants from the Greater Ozarks Cooperating School Districts (GOCSD) and the Missouri Capital Asset Advantage Treasury (MOCAAT) to implement innovative projects that will enhance student learning.
KY WE Student Newscast
Submitted by Michael Ragsdale, Webster Elementary
Marshfield School District
The KY WE Student Newscast project empowers second- and third-grade students to run a full news production, serving as anchors, writers, editors, and production assistants. Through researching topics, drafting scripts, and presenting to a real audience, students strengthen reading, writing, speaking, and media literacy skills while building confidence and leadership. Updated video equipment will help sustain this authentic, student-driven experience that also celebrates school achievements and strengthens the sense of community at Webster Elementary.
Agriculture Landscape Design & Stained Glass Soldering
Submitted by Darla Nunn, Poplar Bluff High School
Poplar Bluff R-1 School District
This project expands traditional horticulture and Agricultural Science II coursework by connecting plant science with creative design and craftsmanship. Students will explore landscape design, site planning, and sustainable practices while also learning stained glass soldering to create decorative garden panels, greenhouse accents, and outdoor art. These hands-on experiences increase engagement, appeal to varied interests, and build career-ready skills in areas such as landscape architecture, greenhouse management, and artisan trades.
Microplastics
Submitted by Amanda Lansdown, Wendy Hill and Kevin Derrick, 5th Grade
Marshfield School District
The Microplastics project engages fifth graders in investigating the presence of microplastics in local drinking water and exploring solutions that benefit their community. Students will collect and analyze water samples from reservoirs in Webster County, research existing efforts to address microplastics, and develop recommendations. They will then present their findings and ideas—such as bringing recycling back to the district—to local leaders, giving students a real-world voice in addressing an environmental issue that affects their community.
Lead Innovators
Submitted by Caitlin Hall, Reading Specialist
Willard School District
Lead Innovators will establish a student leadership team focused on innovation, problem-solving, and the real-world application of STEM skills. Students will collaborate with other groups in the school to identify authentic needs and design solutions, many of which will be created with a 3D printer, such as custom awards, tools, and materials. Through this work, students gain experience with design thinking, critical thinking, and collaboration while creating projects that make a meaningful difference in their school community.
Hands on Discovery
Submitted by Victoria McCormick, Kindergarten Teacher
Marshfield School District
Hands on Discovery will introduce a sensory table and a variety of sensory materials into a kindergarten classroom in a Title I school. The project supports early learning by giving students opportunities to explore textures and tools that build fine motor skills, language, and early academic concepts through play. It also helps students practice self-regulation and supports play so all learners can participate and feel successful during hands-on exploration.
Little Red Farm School Outdoor Learning and Wildlife Habitat Project
Submitted by Megan Sierk, 2nd Grade
Willard School District
The Little Red Farm School Outdoor Learning and Wildlife Habitat Project will transform an underused courtyard into a vibrant outdoor learning space led by the Farm School program. Students will help design and build elements such as a weather observation station, educational murals, and a native plant habitat, creating authentic opportunities that integrate STEM, art, and garden-based learning. Once complete, the space will be available to all students and staff, supporting daily instruction, real-world learning, and animal care experiences that align with Willard’s Portrait of a Graduate focus on ownership and real-world readiness.
GOInnovate Grants
GOInnovate Grants support innovative projects that improve student learning through personalized competency based learning and learner agency practices. Learn more about GOInnovate Grants and plan to submit in 2027.