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CCSD 59 unveils Ridge 'LIFT' innovation block and proposes Title I funding for interactive panels
Summary
Instructional staff described a new Ridge innovation program called LIFT — daily 60‑minute innovation blocks focused on SEL, STEM and project‑based learning — and said the district has 45 Title I‑funded interactive panels already installed and proposed 135 additional panels in a Title I application for the 2026–27 school year, with associated professional development planned.
Ben presented an instructional update on July 8 describing Ridge Elementary's new innovation model, LIFT (Leadership, Innovation, Future‑ready, Teamwork), and explained how the school will schedule 60‑minute innovation blocks four days per week for students in grades 1–5 to focus on SEL, STEM and project‑based learning cycles.
"Lift stands for leadership, innovation, future ready, and teamwork," Ben said, noting staff planned cycles of 4–6 weeks and have prepared daily lessons to support project‑based learning. The district emphasized that specials, interventions and core instructional models will continue and that scheduling adjustments will shorten some sections to create LIFT time rather than eliminate existing opportunities.
On classroom technology, Ben and instructional staff said the district received 45 interactive flat panels in the first Title I‑funded round and will provide professional development this summer and at in‑service before school starts. The district proposed 135 additional panels in its Title I application for 2026–27 to cover grades 3–5 and junior high ELA and math, with expected arrival in September or October if approved.
The staff device refresh was also noted: new staff devices are arriving next week and will be deployed before the start of the school year; previously used devices will be offered for purchase to staff or provided to families in need.
Ending: If Title I funding is approved for the next round, the district will scale the interactive panels this fall and continue staff training to support instructional integration.
