Students with special needs in the School District of La Crosse will get a chance to test a variety of seating options that allow greater movement and a chance to burn excess energy as a result of a grant obtained by the La Crosse Public Education Foundation.

Mary Grace Sieber

The $4,000 grant was made by the La Crosse Community Foundation Mary Grace Sieber Fund. The fund honors Mary Grace Sieber, who died in 1994 after living over 50 years with effects from severe polio. She lived a full life, including working 40 years at Wettstein’s. The fund supports projects to help young people with physical, emotional, or mental disabilities lead more independent and full lives.

LPEF worked with Resa Hawes, the District’s autism and intellectual disabilities program support teacher, to apply for the grant. Hawes and her colleagues will purchase a variety of “wobble” chairs and other dynamic seating options. Research shows the different chairs increase student motivation and engagement, leading to better oxygen flow to the brain, and improved core strength and overall posture. This physical activity is also linked to increased academic performance, better health, and improved behavior.