Media Contact
Abi Douglas-Lott, Communications Manager
601.545.3002

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 24, 2025

PETAL, Miss. – Petal School District (PSD) educators Heather Reid and Sara Zimmer have been awarded classroom grants from Mississippi Professional Educators (MPE), a statewide professional association founded in 1979 that serves approximately 12,000 teachers, administrators, and non-certified staff from kindergarten through graduate school.

Heather Reid, a Petal High School special education teacher, will use her grant for a project titled “Munch Bunch: When in doubt, snack it out!” Through this coffee shop expansion, students will participate in every aspect of running a small business — taking orders, preparing drinks, managing inventory, handling money, greeting customers, and delivering orders. The hands-on experience will strengthen students’ communication, functional math, and social skills.

Sara Zimmer, a Petal High School forensic science teacher, will use her grant for a project titled “The Forensic Fowl Body Farm at Petal High.” This initiative allows students to conduct scientific research on decomposition by observing and analyzing the decay process using fresh chicken carcasses. Through this project, students will deepen their skills in data collection, critical thinking, and scientific inquiry.

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Matt Dillon praised the educators for their innovative efforts.

“These teachers are a prime example of what sets our district apart — they continually go above and beyond to support student success. Thanks to these MPE grants, our students will have access to enhanced learning opportunities, whether that’s innovative classroom materials, creative projects, or real-world experiences that deepen their understanding and spark their curiosity.”

MPE awards up to $40,000 in classroom grants each year to its members who seek to enhance instructional offerings or educational experiences for their students. For more information on MPE’s classroom grant program and other benefits, please visit www.mpe.org
 

# # #