By admin 
RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN) — Two teachers at a charter school in Raleigh have received a $2,000 grant to help fund an outdoor classroom project, officials said.
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Voya Financial, Inc. awarded the $2,000 to Raleigh Oak Charter School teachers Heather Gillespie and Maria Campagna as part of the 2026 Unsung Heroes competition, which recognizes innovative education projects and methods.
According to Voya, Gillespie and Campagna created “The Living Classroom”, which expands four raised beds into a school garden for all grade levels. There will also be additional beds for gardens and a pollinator habitat.
Designed as a living classroom, according to Voya, the garden is intended to strengthen students’ connection to the land and provide them with a lasting foundation for outdoor education by supporting hands-on experiences in ecology, environmental stewardship, and local food systems.
The $2,000 grant will be used to purchase a small greenhouse and a storage shed for supporting seed starting, extending the growing season, and securely storing store tools and supplies, according to Voya.
Voya said the greenhouse and storage area will allow students to sow seeds, grow plants, and engage in learning throughout the year.
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Gillespie and Campagna are the only teachers in North Carolina to receive the award, according to Voya.
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“Great educators don’t just teach,” said Jon Reilly, Voya Financial senior vice president for Retail Wealth Management & Advisory Solutions in a statement. “They create opportunities, unlock confidence, and help students see possibilities they may not have imagined for themselves. The recipients of this year’s Voya Unsung Heroes Awards reflect the extraordinary impact happening in classrooms every day.
“We’re honored to celebrate these educators whose dedication and innovation are helping shape brighter futures for their students and their communities,” he continued in his statement.
According to Voya, Gillespie and Campagna are among 50 submissions to receive funding from the company. They will now compete with other finalists for a $20,000 grand prize, a $10,000 second place prize, and a $5,000 third place prize.
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