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OMG! We've Found a NEW FREE Resource for Local Teachers!

The ULM Opportunity Fund is Bringing Fun to Local Classrooms in Northeast Louisiana

By Missy Robertson, Publisher, Macaroni KID Monroe-West Monroe August 22, 2024

Teachers are heroes, dedicating their lives to shaping the minds of future generations. Their tireless efforts, creativity, and passion for education deserve immense appreciation. Recognizing this, the University of Louisiana Monroe (ULM) has introduced a groundbreaking initiative that will not only celebrate teachers but also provide them with valuable resources to enhance their classroom experiences.

Spearheaded by Dr. Ron Berry, President of ULM, and First Lady Dr. Christine Berry, the ULM Opportunity Fund is proud to announce the launch of Discovery Boxes at the ULM Museum of Natural History. This innovative program is set to revolutionize local classrooms and ease the financial burden on teachers by offering free, ready-to-use STEM lesson kits.

What are Discovery Boxes?

Discovery Boxes are an extraordinary educational resource that encapsulates comprehensive STEM lessons in a single, convenient package. Each box comes equipped with detailed instructions, essential supplies for up to 30 students, and alignment with state educational standards. These boxes cover a wide array of STEM topics, including weather, energy, cell/molecular biology, chemistry, ecosystems, and more. Teachers can check out these boxes for one week, making it easy to integrate dynamic, hands-on STEM activities into their curriculum. The Discovery Boxes are applicable for grades K-8 and above. 

A Sneak Peek Inside: The Butterfly Lifecycle Discovery Box

We had the pleasure of meeting Kim Tolson, who graciously showcased the contents of one of these remarkable Discovery Boxes titled, "Butterfly Lifecycle." The box was nothing short of amazing! It included a captivating book on the butterfly lifecycle, an engaging DVD, and foam-built examples that vividly illustrated each stage of the butterfly's development. To top it off, the box provided supplies for a creative, hands-on craft where students could use rice and pasta to represent the different stages of a butterfly's life. This multi-sensory approach not only makes learning fun but also helps students retain complex concepts more effectively.

How to Access Discovery Boxes

The best part? This invaluable resource is completely FREE for teachers! To secure a Discovery Box for a week, simply reach out to the ULM Museum of Natural History at naturalhistory@ulm.edu. It's an effortless way to bring exciting, educational STEM activities into your classroom without the added expense.


The launch of Discovery Boxes is a testament to the Berrys' commitment to supporting educators and enhancing the learning experiences of students. Teachers, your dedication and hard work do not go unnoticed. Programs like this are designed to lighten your load and provide you with the tools you need to inspire and educate the next generation. Thank you for all that you do, and we hope these Discovery Boxes bring an added spark of joy and curiosity to your classrooms!

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