In this episode of "Ready, Set, Grow," host Danielle Nadler speaks with 5th grader Ciaran, and PROPEL program leads Nikki Williams and Carrianne Joback at Frederick Douglass Elementary, highlighting the experiences of students and teachers involved in this hands-on STEM education initiative. The discussion emphasizes the program's impact on student engagement, the joy of learning, and the collaborative efforts of local organizations to support educational growth. Takeaways: - PROPEL is a special program that requires an invitation. - Students enjoy the challenge and hands-on learning in PROPEL. - The program helps keep students engaged after a full school day. - Teachers find joy in seeing students grow and learn. - Community support is crucial for the success of educational programs. - Students feel motivated to participate in PROPEL due to its unique offerings. - The program fosters intrinsic motivation among students. - Teachers appreciate the organized structure of PROPEL. - Building relationships with students is a key aspect of teaching. - Hands-on learning is essential for student engagement in STEM. Quotes: "It challenges our minds every single day." "Seeing their joy in learning makes it all worth it." "They act like you're a celebrity." "It's a result of local organizations coming together." Chapters 00:00 - Introduction to PROPEL Program and Its Impact 17:58 - Student Experience and Insights on PROPEL 24:08 - Teacher Perspectives on PROPEL and Student Engagement

For these 65 Loudoun County Public Schools students, Summer is for Spanish! Taking part in the very first Language Immersion Camp this month, these rising 1st-graders are part of the inaugural class of students in the Dual Language Immersion programs at Sanders Corner and Potowmack Elementary Schools. The camp is funded by generous LEF supporter Lewis Parker, who is passionate about world language fluency and wanted to help launch a camp that ensured students could retain their new language over the summer break. Thanks, Lew! #lef4lcps #summercamp #spanishimmersion

Thank you to members of 7x24 Exchange DC Chapter for helping us pack 1,450 student meal bags for our Fueled program. 🙌 The meal bags were delivered to 30 Loudoun County Public Schools sites where they were distributed to students struggling with food insecurity. Over the past five years, 7x24 Exchange has been instrumental in making our programs successful, including holding pack nights and donating $115,000 to support our Fueled program. We are so grateful for the incredible community partnerships that help us make amazing things possible for LCPS students! Whether its hosting a snack or hygiene drive, raising money or volunteering at a pack night, we couldn’t do it without you! 🥰