Finding Their Calm, Roaring with Confidence
The Lion’s Toolbox at Clark Davidson Elementary
At Clark Davidson Elementary, students are learning that big feelings are not something to fear, they are something to understand.
Thanks to a Goddard Education Foundation Teacher Grant, school social worker Corrina Crabb has transformed a simple idea into a powerful resource for students. What began as an idea to create a regulation station, has become something much more. Today, it is known by students and staff as The Lion’s Toolbox, a welcoming de-escalation space where students can “find their calm and roar with confidence.”
Walk into the room and you immediately feel the intention behind it. Soft seating. Sensory tiles that glow with movement under small feet. A carefully organized wall of tools, from body socks and weighted lap pads to fidget boxes and desk pedals. A friendly lion greets students from the wall, reminding them that strength is not about volume, it is about control.
But the power of the Lion’s Toolbox is not just in the tools. It is in the process.
When students enter the room, they begin by identifying their current emotional zone. Are they feeling overwhelmed? Frustrated? Sleepy? Restless? Naming the feeling is the first step toward managing it.
From there, students choose a tool designed specifically for what they need in that moment. A student who feels hyper may choose a calming sensory activity. A student who feels sluggish may choose a more active regulation strategy. An eight minute timer gives them structured time to reset. When the timer ends, students reflect on how the tool helped and complete a brief evaluation sheet before returning to class.
If a particular strategy proves especially effective, Corrina can help replicate it in the classroom. Small tools that support regulation can travel with students, reinforcing independence and self awareness beyond the Lion’s Toolbox walls.
Corrina knew that creating a space like this required thoughtful planning. After receiving the grant, she collaborated with Martha Mann, occupational therapist for Goddard Public Schools, and Tori Elliott, speech pathologist. Together, they developed a structured system to maximize impact and ensure consistency for both students and staff.
Research supports what they are already seeing in practice. Sensory based interventions and structured regulation spaces reduce classroom disruptions, increase on task behavior, and strengthen emotional control. The Regulation Station proposal highlights that up to one in four elementary students experience difficulty regulating emotions that impact learning. Providing proactive support helps prevent behaviors before they escalate.
For Clark Davidson Elementary, this means fewer reactive moments and more intentional support.
It also means greater staff confidence. In the past, when a student became dysregulated, options were limited. With limited space, oftentimes a staff member’s office served as the only alternative space for intervention. Now, any trained staff member can guide a student to the Lion’s Toolbox and follow a consistent, schoolwide process. The space was built intentionally to support teachers, paraprofessionals, and ultimately every student in the building.
The impact extends even further. Students who demonstrate growth in self regulation can earn time in the room as an incentive. Staff training videos are being developed so that the Lion’s Toolbox model remains purposeful, specific, and sustainable at Clark Davidson Elementary. Data will be reviewed to measure success, evaluate student growth, and guide future investments in the space.
At its heart, this is about more than calming down. It is about teaching students how to recognize emotions, practice coping strategies, and return to learning with confidence. It is about building lifelong skills that strengthen academic engagement, peer relationships, and emotional well being.
Because when students learn how to regulate, they do not just manage the moment, they ROAR!
Goddard Public Schools is in its second year of implementing LETRS (Language Essentials for Teachers of Reading and Spelling) training. This initiative equips educators with the deep knowledge needed to transform literacy instruction and reach every learner. Through her participation in these courses, Mrs. Hansard identified a critical need and discovered a way to bridge the gap for students struggling with reading during library time. “Audiobooks take some of the pressure off a struggling reader,” Mrs. Hansard explains. “They help develop a love of reading that builds life-long habits.”
In the short time Wonderbooks have been available for trial in the library, they have quickly become a class favorite. Mrs. Hansard is thrilled to see students engaging in new ways, and soon, students will have the opportunity to check these books out to enjoy at home. By making reading fun and accessible, Mrs. Hansard aims to motivate young readers while building essential skills in comprehension, vocabulary, and fluency.
Thank you, Goddard Education Foundation and our generous benefactors for providing the tools needed to inspire new opportunities for young readers.
Looking for an opportunity to GIVE, GRATITUDE, GODDARD? Consider joining us ‘Somewhere Over the Rainbow’ at the Goddard Education Foundation’s premier fundraising event, called Oz on March 28, 2026. Purchase Tickets or donate to support the GEF and future Innovative Teacher grants by clicking here… https://www.goddardef.org/o/gef/page/oz-2025-fundraising-event
To learn more about LETRS training visit... https://www.goddardusd.com/article/2541438
Click below to nominate a staff member for the 2025-2026 #265Family!
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScsMNl3z277aZNiN859FaFgJAPZq79zwU47Oi1uH8pqqESvPg/viewform?usp=header
The legacy of Goddard Public Schools is built by the incredible people who have walked our halls. Since 2018, the Goddard Education Foundation has been proud to honor those who have shaped our community through the Goddard Hall of Fame.
Whether they are a standout Alumnus, a dedicated staff member, or a devoted friend of the District, we want to recognize those who are making a difference and inspiring the next generation of Tigers and Lions!
Help us celebrate excellence. Nominate someone for the 2026 Goddard Hall of Fame today! Click the link below to submit your nomination and help us tell their story!
Click the link below to submit your nomination and help us tell their story!
Nominations for the #265Family Award are officially OPEN. Whether they are a teacher, custodian, driver, or para, we want to hear their story. Your words of appreciation are often the most meaningful gift an educator or staff member can receive. Every nominee will receive their nomination letter, and 15 heroes (one person from each school and USD department) will win $100 cash!
Who has made a difference in your life this year? Nominate them today below!
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScsMNl3z277aZNiN859FaFgJAPZq79zwU47Oi1uH8pqqESvPg/viewform?usp=header
Established in 2018, the Goddard Hall of Fame celebrates the service and success of those who have made a lasting impact on Goddard Public Schools. We are looking for individuals who embody the "Legacy of Excellence" that USD 265 is know for.
Do you know someone who deserves this honor? Please consider nominating a distinguished Goddard Alumni, Retired or Former Staff, or All-Americans (Student Group, Organization, Team, or Family). Click the link below to submit your nomination by March 30th and help us tell their story!
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeLMYuOL2ATkI0TYJIJ4TiGCTBYL5R_97E414K-EyWSObjo-Q/formResponse
Save the Date: A Night in Oz with the GEF!
Mark your calendars for March 28, 2026!
The GEF is bringing the Land of Oz to Goddard, and you’re invited to be part of the magic. We are embarking on a journey to support our #265Family, and we need your "heart, brains, and courage" to make it a success.
Impact: Supporting 6,400 Goddard students.
Availability: Only 300 total tickets are being sold.
Options: Individual tickets or Table Sponsorships (10 seats).
How you can help: We are currently seeking community partners and in-kind donations for our event Live Auction and Game Prizes. If your business would like to sponsor a specific portion of the evening or if you wish to make a direct charitable donation to the GEF, please reach out. Every contribution directly fuels the dreams of our Goddard students. Please contact Dane Baxa at danebaxa@goddardusd.com with questions or donation opportunities.
There’s no place like our community, and with your support, every student can feel the warmth and encouragement they deserve.
Click Below to Purchase Tickets & Tables
https://secure.qgiv.com/event/oz2026/
THANK YOU, Goddard Public Schools Maintenance Team!
While most of the community was staying warm inside, this incredible maintenance team was outside doing the hard work that makes a safe return to school possible.
On Sunday, January 25th, and again early Monday morning, January 26th, the USD 265 Facilities, Maintenance & Operations staff were out across the district clearing snow from parking lots, driveways, sidewalks, and entrances, ensuring school buildings are safe and accessible for students, staff, and families.
These moments from Clark Davidson Elementary School, Discovery Intermediate School, and Challenger Intermediate School are a snapshot of the pride, grit, and dedication behind the scenes. Snow storms do not stop this team from showing up, problem solving, and taking care of our schools.
Their work may happen before sunrise and behind the scenes, but its impact is felt by every student and staff member who walks through our doors. Thank you for going above and beyond for our #265Family!
Thanks to this community's incredible generosity during our year-end campaign, we didn't just reach our goal, we made history by securing our full matching gift and raising $85,000 that will go to impact students and staff of Goddard Public Schools.
Your impact is already in motion: These funds are headed directly into USD 265 classrooms to fuel creativity. This past December, the GEF awarded 30 Innovative Teacher Grants, providing everything from high-tech science equipment to hands-on learning tools for our 6,400 students. Stay connected with GEF in the coming months to see these Innovative Teacher Grants in action!
Whether you donated, shared our posts, or cheered us on, you are the reason Goddard remains a premier place to learn. Thank you for your continued confidence in our mission to Inspire Minds and Expand Possibilities.
Let's ROAR into 2026!
If Mrs. Karber's story moved you, imagine the impact we can make together. Your donation—matched dollar-for-dollar up to $25,000—empowers educators like Mrs. Karber and elevates student learning across the district.
This is Give. Gratitude. Goddard.
Donate now: https://secure.qgiv.com/for/goddardpublicschools/?blm_aid=71680
Behind every extraordinary GODDARD classroom moment is a teacher like Mrs. Hickey's with passion, and a community that chooses to GIVE. Your matched gift multiplies our GRATITUDE and strengthens the future of Goddard Public Schools.
Give. Gratitude. Goddard.
Give today: https://secure.qgiv.com/for/goddardpublicschools/?blm_aid=71680
This month, we're thrilled to continue our Educator Spotlight series dedicated to celebrating the heart and soul of our district. As we celebrate them, you can show your gratitude to through the GIVE. GRATITUDE. GODDARD Campaign.
Teachers like Mr. Bolton and Mr. Richey, pour their hearts into every student’s success. Today, your generosity can pour right back into their classrooms, twice as strong, thanks to a $25,000 matching challenge.
Give with purpose. Give with Gratitude. Give for Goddard.
Donate here: https://secure.qgiv.com/for/goddardpublicschools/?blm_aid=71680
Educator Spotlight Alert!
This month, we're thrilled to continue our Educator Spotlight series dedicated to celebrating the heart and soul of our district. As we celebrate them, you can show your gratitude to through the GIVE. GRATITUDE. GODDARD Campaign.
Miss. Poorman’s story is just one chapter in a child’s 13-year journey through Goddard Public Schools. Your support, matched up to $25,000, helps write the next one. When you Give, you multiply Gratitude. You strengthen Goddard.
Give today: https://secure.qgiv.com/for/goddardpublicschools/?blm_aid=71680
This month, we're thrilled to continue our Educator Spotlight series dedicated to celebrating the heart and soul of our district. As we celebrate them, you can show your gratitude to through the GIVE. GRATITUDE. GODDARD Campaign.
Behind every extraordinary GODDARD classroom moment is a teacher like Mr. Kohlman with passion, and a community that chooses to GIVE. Your matched gift multiplies our GRATITUDE and strengthens the future of Goddard Public Schools.
Give. Gratitude. Goddard.
Give today: https://secure.qgiv.com/for/goddardpublicschools/?blm_aid=71680
Educator Spotlight Alert!
This month, we're thrilled to continue our Educator Spotlight series dedicated to celebrating the heart and soul of our district. As we celebrate them, you can show your gratitude to through the GIVE. GRATITUDE. GODDARD Campaign.
This educator’s story reflects what makes Goddard a family: heart, purpose, and a deep commitment to students. Your year-end gift, matched dollar-for-dollar up to $25,000, fuels more teachers’ stories just like Mrs. Whelan's
Give. Gratitude. Goddard.
Donate now: https://secure.qgiv.com/for/goddardpublicschools/?blm_aid=71680
Here's to another amazing Educator Spotlight!
This month, we're thrilled to continue our Educator Spotlight series dedicated to celebrating the heart and soul of our district. As we celebrate them, you can show your gratitude to through the GIVE. GRATITUDE. GODDARD Campaign.
If Mrs. Harris' story moved you, imagine the impact we can make together. Your donation—matched dollar-for-dollar up to $25,000—empowers educators like Mrs. Harris and elevates student learning across the district.
This is Give. Gratitude. Goddard.
Donate now: https://secure.qgiv.com/for/goddardpublicschools/?blm_aid=71680
It's Time for another Educator Spotlight!
This month, we're thrilled to continue our Educator Spotlight series dedicated to celebrating the heart and soul of our district. As we celebrate them, you can show your gratitude to through the GIVE. GRATITUDE. GODDARD Campaign.
This educator’s story reflects what makes Goddard a family: heart, purpose, and a deep commitment to students. Your year-end gift, matched dollar-for-dollar up to $25,000, fuels more teachers’ stories just like Mrs. Lane's.
Give. Gratitude. Goddard.
Donate now: https://secure.qgiv.com/for/goddardpublicschools/?blm_aid=71680
🎉 HUGE CONGRATULATIONS! 🎉
We are thrilled to announce that 30 Innovative Teacher Grants were awarded to dedicated USD 265 educators across the District on Friday, December 5th, 2025! Here is just a sneak peak of some of the grants awarded. Visit https://www.facebook.com/goddardef to see pictures of all the Educators who received this year's Innovative Teacher Grants.
These grants will fund innovative projects, purchase cutting-edge resources, and create inspiring learning experiences for our USD 265 students. From STEM equipment to enhanced literacy materials, our teachers are bringing innovation into the classroom!
The Innovative Teacher Grant program is a direct result of the support generated throughout the year. The GIVE. GRATITUDE. GODDARD. campaign is one of the ways the GEF is able to raise funds that invest in the future of our students and the passion of our educators.
Let's celebrate these teachers and the amazing work they do every day!
DOUBLE YOUR IMPACT!
Your generosity sparks innovation in classrooms just like this year's Innovative Teacher Grant Recipients. And right now, every gift to the Goddard Education Foundation is doubled thanks to a $25,000 matching opportunity.
There’s never been a more powerful moment to Give. Gratitude. Goddard.
➡️ Give today: https://secure.qgiv.com/for/goddardpublicschools/?blm_aid=71680
Did You Get Your copy of ROAR on 54 magazine?
The latest edition of ROAR on 54 Magazine has been in mailboxes for two weeks, and we are so excited to see the stories, photos, and achievements of our #265Family being celebrated!
You can read this year's 2025 edition of ROAR on 54 Magazine here: https://goddardpsks.sites.thrillshare.com/o/gef/page/roar-on-54
Page 11 features an important invitation to join our mission: GIVE. GRATITUDE. GODDARD.
This holiday season, we have a heartfelt opportunity to say thank you to the incredible educators and staff who make a lasting difference in the lives of our students every single day.
Key Ways to Make a Difference TODAY:
*DOUBLE Your Impact: Thanks to generous community champions, all gifts made before December 31st will be matched dollar-for-dollar, up to $25,000!
*Unlock the Full Match: Help us reach the $25,000 match by December 31st to ensure Goddard Public Schools remains a community where students thrive and possibilities grow.
*The Goal: Your gift supports innovative learning opportunities, classroom resources, and programs that help ALL students achieve lifelong success.
“This isn’t just giving; it’s gratitude in action.”
Don’t miss out on this incredible opportunity to support the teachers who inspire, innovate, and make a difference!
Click here to GIVE. GRATITUDE. GODDARD. and have your gift matched: https://secure.qgiv.com/for/goddardpublicschools/?blm_aid=71680
It's Time to Shine a Spotlight on our Goddard Educators!
This month, we're thrilled to launch a special Educator Spotlight series dedicated to celebrating the heart and soul of our district.
At the Goddard Education Foundation, we know our mission to inspire minds and expand possibilities is brought to life by the extraordinary dedication of our staff and the teachers. Follow along as we share their unique stories, celebrate their innovation, and recognize the profound impact they have on the #265Family.
As we celebrate them, you can show your gratitude to through the GIVE. GRATITUDE. GODDARD Campaign.
When you Give, our educators feel it, and our students live it. In this Season of GIVE. GRATITUDE. GODDARD, every dollar you contribute is matched up to $25,000, doubling the impact for Goddard classrooms like Mrs. Griffiths.
Give today: https://secure.qgiv.com/for/goddardpublicschools/?blm_aid=71680
