Clinton Elem staff say merit grant will fund sensory hallway to support students with sensory needs

Clinton Elementary staff said the school will use a merit project award and existing small grants to establish a sensory hallway intended to help students with sensory needs.

At the board meeting the chair asked about “the merit project award for the $5,000 for the sensory hallway,” prompting Kat, a member of the school staff, to outline the funding and rationale. Kat said Missoula Electric Co-op and the Bridal Future Fund offer grants available to both the elementary and the middle school and that "those were $2,000 a piece" this year; she said the school received those grants and that a separate merit award was also available. Kat told the board the hallway would provide calming space and help students process sensory input, saying it can be "very calming" and useful for students who need support before learning can begin.

Kat described the proposed location as the hallway leading to the extended resource room and said the project could spill into that room. She said the space is currently used by one student who will eventually age out and that staff members Amber, Kaylee and Tim would be involved in planning and purchasing supplies. The staff report referenced supporting research on sensory interventions and a write-up by Kaylee that described the schools student population and needs.

Board members did not take a formal vote on construction or procurement at the meeting; the discussion focused on funding sources and next steps with counselors and staff. The school intends to continue planning with staff and bring more specifics to the board at a later meeting.