The Education Partnership was a winner of a Schacht Tools for Schools Grant in 2025! Learn about the work they've been doing after adding Lilli Looms to their program:
One year after receiving the Tools for Schools grant, The Education Partnership's STEAM Lending Library weaving loom continues to make a meaningful impact in classrooms across Southwestern Pennsylvania. By providing educators with access to hands-on learning tools they may not otherwise be able to afford, the grant has helped students develop creativity, fine motor skills, collaboration, and confidence through meaningful weaving experiences.
Throughout the past year, educators have used the loom in a variety of ways to support both academic and social-emotional learning. At Pittsburgh Montessori PreK-5, teacher Jeannine Schreiner found that the loom created an opportunity to strengthen connections between generations. She shared, "I am using the opportunity for a student's grandma to join the class and assist the students!" What began as a weaving project became a way to build community and bring family members into the learning process.
At Steel Valley Middle School, gifted support teacher Nicole States integrated the loom into student-led learning experiences. Her students not only used the loom regularly but also taught life skills students how to knit, creating opportunities for mentorship and inclusion. Reflecting on the experience, Nicole shared, "Students also greatly enjoyed the weaving activities. Weaving allowed them to practice patience, fine motor skills, and creativity while learning about patterns and design. Many students found the process calming and rewarding, and they were very proud of their finished projects."
The loom has also provided valuable support for students with diverse learning needs. At James H. Metzgar School, educator Caroline Brumley reported that her life skills students embraced the loom as a collaborative and therapeutic activity. She explained, "My students love to use this as a collaborative project. They each can add materials while on their breaks or use it as a way to decompress when needed."
These stories highlight the power of providing educators with access to high-quality learning tools. Through the Tools for Schools grant, students have been able to explore creativity, develop important life skills, build relationships with peers and family members, and find moments of calm and accomplishment throughout the school day.
We are deeply grateful for the support that made this opportunity possible. The weaving loom continues to enrich classrooms and demonstrate how hands-on learning experiences can foster creativity, connection, and confidence in students across our region.