BETHALTO - Bethalto Community Unit School District No. 8 announced that Mary Jo Burson, a third-grade teacher at Parkside, was selected for a grant from the Illinois Retired Teachers Association Foundation to support hands-on learning experiences in her classroom.

The district said Burson wrote the grant to fund more than $400 in activities for students who finish assignments early or have free-choice time.

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The grant will support a makers space she is creating, with resources intended to encourage teamwork, collaboration and problem-solving among classmates.

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Burson was chosen among more than 1,400 applicants across the state, according to the district.

Bethalto Community Unit School District No. 8 said, “Congratulations, Mrs. Burson, on this great accomplishment!”

Burson is a definite “Difference Maker" in her community.

If you have a Difference Make idea, e-mail news@riverbender.com or text (618) 623-5930.

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