ASMV awards teacher mini grants to local educators

The Autism Society of the Mahoning Valley celebrated local educators Aug. 12 with a special Teacher Appreciation Night at the Dessert Bar at Gorant Chocolates in Boardman.

The evening gave teachers an opportunity to relax, connect and be recognized for the important work they do for students throughout the Mahoning Valley. The event also recognized the recipients of the Autism Society of the Mahoning Valley's 2026 Teacher Mini Grants, sponsored by Associated School Employees Credit Union (ASECU).

The program gives teachers an opportunity to turn creative ideas into meaningful learning experiences that support their students' individual needs.

The 2026 Teacher Mini Grants and Teacher Appreciation Night were both spearheaded by Laura McBride, Vice President of the ASMV and Director of Special Services at Springfield Local Schools.

The mini grant recipients were:

• Gwen Weikart, Lisbon Exempted Village Schools, first place, $750. Weikart will use her grant to provide Yoto Mini Players and story cards to support language, comprehension, independence and self-regulation among kindergarten students.

• Sarah Devon, East Liverpool City Schools, second place, $500. Devon's "Pop, Learn, Grow" project will create a student-run popcorn cart, giving students hands-on opportunities to develop communication, money management, customer service and independent living skills.

• Susan K. Miner, ESC of Eastern Ohio, third place, $250; Miner will develop a traveling resource kit to help preschool educators support children with autism as they experience the loss of a peer, family member or pet.