Goddard High School

Science, Service, and Connection: Bridging the Generational Gap

A word commonly used to describe high schoolers is “Apathetic.” It’s a label often unfairly placed on students seen tucked behind phone screens, seemingly checked out from the world around them. But Goddard High School science teacher Abbie Griffith asked a different question: “Do we provide students a chance to connect? Do we help them see the value they bring to others?

With the help of an Innovative Teacher Grant from the Goddard Education Foundation (GEF), two Freshman Physical Science classes recently traded their desks for “mobile science stations” at Dove Estates, a local senior living facility. Their mission? To host a hands-on science fair for residents.

This grant provided the specialized, durable supplies needed to take science on the road. From inertia hats to homemade lava lamps, these Freshman students transitioned from learners to experts. Students not only learned the content and science behind each activity, but they also prepared the presentations, introduced the activities, and explained the science all with the hope of creating special moments for both generations.

“My students have so much to offer and just don’t realize it yet because they don’t have enough opportunities to shine,” says Griffith. By teaching others, their own understanding of science deepens, but more importantly, they experience the “feel-good” power of serving others.”

The impact was immediate for both the students and the residents. For the seniors, it was a day of discovery and youthful energy; for the students, it was a lesson in civic responsibility that no textbook could provide.

Mason Wright, a Freshman student in Mrs. Griffith’s class reflected on his experience,
“This was an awesome opportunity for me. I love it when I can take just 5 seconds out of my day and make someone smile for me. Getting to work with these residents and teaching them something, and even getting to hear about their school stories was truly a blast! If I could be known for something, I would want it to be for always having a smile on my face. Being able to take time out of our school day and teach them tiny experiments that they have never seen before is heartwarming. This had a super positive impact on me because it shows something so tiny to us can be so big and meaningful to someone else, and I am just so thankful that I got to have that impact on them and make their day just a tiny bit better!”

By investing in this project, the GEF is helping turn “apathy” into “action,” proving that the best way to support a student’s academic growth is to empower them to serve their community. Students left Dove Estates with more than just scientific data, they left with the confidence that comes from knowing they made someone else’s day a little brighter. This project proves that the best way to support a student’s academic growth is to empower them to serve their community.

The success of this project would not be possible without the generous support of the GEF and its donors. Your investment did more than purchase supplies; it provided a bridge between generations. By supporting Innovative Teacher Grants like this one, you ensure that Goddard students don’t just learn about the world but how to change it for the better. Thank you for believing in our teachers and empowering our students to lead.

We’d love to have you join us for the annual 5th-12th grade
GODDARD ORCHESTRA CONCERT
Tuesday April 28!
Come hear all students involved in Goddard Orchestras at 7 PM in the GHS Gym!
Don't miss our annual Minute to Give It fundraiser to benefit the GIMB private lesson and senior scholarship fund! All amounts appreciated! Cash and checks made out to GIMB. Look for QR codes for electronic donations as well!
Help us celebrate an awesome year for Goddard Orchestra!

Dear Goddard Public Schools Staff and Families,

Neighbors United Goddard is happening tomorrow, Saturday, April 25, 2026, and we would love for you to be part of this incredible day of service and community connection.

We are still looking for volunteers to join us. Registration will take place at the Goddard District Stadium from 7:00 to 7:30 a.m., and there are still plenty of project sites available for individuals and families to serve together. Click below for more details:

https://www.facebook.com/reel/1499152881939945

Volunteers can expect a meaningful and fun experience, along with a free event t-shirt, breakfast, and lunch. Whether you come on your own or bring the whole family, this is a great opportunity to give back while spending time together in service to our community.

In addition to volunteer projects, there are two special opportunities taking place at the Goddard Linear Park Pavilion, 108 N. Main Street:

Plant and Seed Swap Event, 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
Bring a piece of your garden to share, such as plant cuttings, divided perennials, seeds, or small garden items. Participants can drop off items as early as 8:00 a.m. and then “shop” beginning at 10:00 a.m. It is a fun and simple way to trade plants and grow something new while connecting with others in the community. In addition, students from the Goddard High School Ecology and Biology programs, under the leadership of teacher Darcie Lowry, have cultivated 100 indoor houseplant starter kits that will be given away to community members who stop by. This work is an extension of a Goddard Education Foundation Innovative Teacher Grant, bringing classroom learning to life while giving back to the community in a meaningful way. CLICK HERE for more details:

https://www.facebook.com/reel/1784640216043365

Sports Equipment Donation and Pickup
Drop off gently used sports equipment between 7:30 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. Families in need are invited to pick up equipment from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. All remaining donated items will go back into our community through local junior league programs, helping ensure every child has access to the equipment they need to participate. A special thank you to the Summer Ball Showdown for coordinating this opportunity. Click below for more details:

https://www.facebook.com/reel/2189421978525736

We encourage everyone to follow the Neighbors United Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/NeighborsUnitedGoddard for updates. In the event of severe or dangerous weather, any cancellation will be announced by 7:00 a.m. If the event has already begun and conditions change, volunteers will be safely dismissed and further communication will be provided.

Thank you for continuing to make Goddard Public Schools such a strong and caring community.

It takes a village... and our village is the best.

Behind every great student is a dedicated team of teachers, drivers, custodians, and support staff. They are more than just employees; they are the heart of the #265Family.

Is there someone who has made a difference in your life or your child’s life this year? Whether they provide a safe ride to school or a word of encouragement in the hallway, we want to hear about it!

Nominate them for the #265Family Award today. A few minutes of your time could lead to a $100 surprise for a well-deserving staff member!

Let’s celebrate them! Nominate your hero for the #265Family Award. It’s a quick way to say "thank you" and gives them a chance to win a $100 cash prize!
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScsMNl3z277aZNiN859FaFgJAPZq79zwU47Oi1uH8pqqESvPg/viewform?usp=sharing&ouid=112499309207359684117