LA PORTE COUNTY, IN — In honor of Teacher Appreciation Day, Unity Foundation of La Porte County surprised four local teachers with classroom grants. Unity Foundation invited the public to submit nominations by sharing what makes the teacher special. Of the many nominations received, four were randomly selected. Their schools will each receive a $250 grant from the Random Acts of Kindness Fund of Unity Foundation for the teachers to use for items for their classrooms or for creative projects to enhance learning.

“Unity Foundation has a long history of supporting students and teachers. In honor of Teacher Appreciation Day, we are thrilled to celebrate these four teachers for the impact they have on their students every day. The nominations were terrific, and we wish to thank all La Porte County teachers for everything they do throughout the year,” said Shannon Walker, Unity Foundation Vice President.

The following teachers and their schools appear below along with the information shared by their nominators.

 Melissa Coffeen, Kesling Intermediate (La Porte)
“She teaches the mild program for 5th and 6th grade. These kids need so much encouragement and she provides it. She makes sure she has everything in her room for them. Snacks, games, and drinks. She makes sure that she teaches their grade standards at their level. She is their cheerleader.”

Kyle McCallum, South Central
“Kyle is an absolute amazing teacher! He goes over and beyond to teach his students the importance of the earth’s land. He also packs food bags for underprivileged children every week to be sent home on the weekends. He is the real deal of caring for our children.”

 Dan Olson, La Porte High School
“He’s funny. The kids love him. He uses poker to teach statistics. It’s their favorite day of the year. Statistics!”

 Josie Southworth, Joy Elementary (Michigan City)
“She has gone beyond the duties required by her job to care for her children. She has shown compassion for not only their academic growth but also their mental and emotional growth and well being. She is awesome and it has been an honor to have her as my child’s teacher.”

To learn more about Unity Foundation or support their work, visit uflc.net.

About Unity Foundation

Since 1992, Unity Foundation of La Porte County has served donors, nonprofits, and local communities. As La Porte County’s community foundation, it manages $45 million in assets, administers more than 350 charitable funds, and has distributed more than $25 million through direct grants and scholarships. Unity Foundation’s mission is to strengthen La Porte County now and forever by building permanent endowments; providing leadership; offering philanthropic vehicles for everyone; and being a catalyst for social and economic vitality. For more information, please visit uflc.net or call 219-879-0327.