MVR-III logo, Bridge Foundation Awards Fall 2026 Educator Grants with four photos blurred in the background.

The Meramec Valley R-III School District is proud to announce the recipients of the Fall 2026 MVR-III Bridge Foundation Grants. The MVR-III Bridge Foundation is a nonprofit organization that promotes educational excellence for every child by working in partnership with the MVR-III School District and community. The foundation's goals are to award grants to educators for innovative projects, bridge the gap between educational opportunities and financial resources, and promote family & community wellness opportunities.

Out of eight submitted proposals, six innovative educator projects were selected for funding, totaling $5,350 in awarded grant funds. These grant awards empower district staff to bring engaging, high-impact learning experiences to students across multiple schools.

The Fall 2026 grant recipients and funded projects include:

  • Catherine Weil (Pacific Intermediate) – Project Based Learning (PBL): Connecting math standards to real-world applications through active capstone projects

  • Emily Beer (Pacific Intermediate) – Science Beyond the Classroom & Connecting Students to STEM Careers: Expanding STEM career awareness through hands-on experiences and professional interactions

  • Cody Kelley (Pacific High School) – Media Studio: Establishing a student-led media production studio for news segments, podcasts, and digital storytelling

  • Marissa Mathes (Coleman Elementary) – Outdoor Classroom & Garden: Transforming outdoor space into a collaborative learning environment and plant life study area

Various staff members holding a large check in a school classroom.

Various staff members holding a large check in a school classroom.

Various staff members holding a large check in a school classroom.

Various staff members holding a large check in a school classroom.

These creative classroom initiatives are made possible through community support and local fundraising. The Bridge Foundation hosts its primary annual event, the Shamwalk & Run 5K, every March to raise essential funds for classroom grants, student scholarships, and the Back to School Bash. Anyone wishing to support the MVR-III Bridge Foundation may submit a donation to 126 N. Payne Street, Pacific, MO.

Congratulations to the Fall 2026 grant recipients!