The Luna Community College Education Department in partnership with the Luna Foundation recently applied for and received a grant from PNM Resources Foundation. The Foundation awarded $700,000 in grants to 44 nonprofits that have demonstrated a commitment to important issues around education, inclusion, the environment, and community vitality.
Luna’s Education Department was awarded $10,000 to create a model classroom for Early Childhood and Teacher Education students to gain hands-on experience during their time at LCC.
Director of the Education Department, Tycie Jackson, who submitted the grant says, “Oftentimes, pre-service teachers are educated in environments that have no resemblance to a real classroom setting. Securing this grant will allow us to create a real-life model classroom where students can interact virtually or in-person to experience practical hands-on training in areas such as classroom design, technology integration, Universal Design for Learning, inclusive practices, and many other teaching concepts. In addition to serving the LCC Early Childhood and Teacher Education students, the classroom will be open to all area schools to use for professional development, training, and collaboration.”
Jackson attended a recipient award ceremony on June 16, 2023, at the African American Performing Arts Center in Albuquerque where Luna Community College was recognized as a nonprofit recipient who has made a significant impact on the communities they serve.
It is estimated that the classroom will be ready by the spring of 2024 when an open house will take place for the community to tour.
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Luna’s Department of Education Director Tycie Jackson.
