Mosside teachers awarded McDonald’s grants in Monroeville

Two Gateway School District middle school teachers have received cash grants from local McDonald’s restaurants.

Kelly Cornelius and Jodi Piacenti each received a $500 McDonald’s MAC Grant from owner-operator Matthew Alamo to help them “Make Activities Count” for their students.

Cornelius said she will use the grant money to host a “Family Fun Night!” on the Mosside football field for a movie under the stars. Attendees can bring lawn chairs and blankets, enjoy pre-show music and games, and purchase concessions. Contests and raffles will be offered during the event with prizes to include T-shirts and gift cards to local businesses.

“The goal is getting people together safely, talking, connecting and having fun,” Cornelius said.

Piacenti plans to use the grant to purchase a set of Logitech Crayons for iPads. The technology helps students create infographics and expand their graphic design abilities.

“As teachers, we are always searching for meaningful ways to incorporate technology without losing the creativity of pen and paper,” Piacenti said.

For the past 28 years, local McDonald’s restaurants have awarded more than $2.75 million to support hands-on learning through Make Activities Count grants.

A two-generation family business and McDonald’s franchisee for more than 20 years, the Alamo organization owns and operates 19 McDonald’s restaurants in western Pennsylvania. The company employs almost 1,000 local residents.