Ashley Brigham

Brigham’s creative teaching project, “Strong Bodies, Kind Hearts,” is designed to transform an underutilized portable classroom into a welcoming, organized physical education (PE) and social emotional learning (SEL) space serving more than 700 kindergarten through 5th grade students. The Voya grant funds will support organizational systems such as shelving and labeled bins, along with high-impact equipment including a gaga ball pit, yoga mats, street hockey supplies, portable nets and role-play materials for problem solving. According to Brigham, these resources will allow students to build physical skills while practicing teamwork, self-management, communication and conflict resolution. She believes an organized, engaging environment will improve transitions, increase participation and create equitable access to materials for large classes. She hopes that by blending movement with intentional SEL instruction, this project will support whole-child development and provide a lasting PE + SEL hub that helps students feel safe, connected and excited to learn.