Springer third graders turn biographies into action projects, raise $2,325 for charities

Springer Elementary third graders showcased a yearlong learning unit that reframed a traditional wax‑museum project into an inquiry‑driven study of "impactful Americans," school staff and students told the Los Altos School District Board.

Teacher Lisa Mora described how students organized research into three categories—early life, adulthood and impact—then distilled that research into speeches and table presentations with buttons that allowed visitors to hear students’ presentations. "We wanted them to think more about not someone's fame...but the people who are behind those things," Mora said.

Students explained classroom activities that emphasized character traits such as perseverance and imagination, and described group‑based service projects tied to those themes. One student said the class held a "Crafts for a Cause" fundraiser that raised $2,325; the class voted to split the money evenly and donate $775 each to the Red Cross, Pound Puppy Rescue and Big Brothers Big Sisters.

Teachers and board members praised the combination of academic skills and civic education. Board members highlighted the students’ use of research, writing, editing and public speaking and thanked volunteers and parents who supported the event.

The presentation was part of the board’s regular meeting and followed by consent agenda items. The district said it will continue to showcase classroom work at future meetings.