MISSOULA — Jefferson Elementary School early kindergarten teacher Becky Hellebust is this week’s KPAX and Republic Services One Class at a Time grant winner.
Republic Services Municipal Manager Chad Bauer awarded the $250 check to Hellebust who is going to use the money to buy S.T.E.M. toys for her young students.
The toys she chooses are typically themed and picked specifically to increase fine motor skills, as well as logical thinking. Hellebust says they focus on learning and creativity.
"I do themes for months, so like for February it’s more of a Valentine's. So I have hearts, candy hearts, little things they can add to their building…small, little people, just little props every month," Hellebust explained.