With the goal of igniting innovation in the classroom, in December of 2024, Xaverian’s Teaching and Learning Committee debuted two grant opportunities for faculty and staff who were interested in enhancing their teacher pedagogy and/or student learning through the integration of Mind, Brain, and Education (MBE) principles.

The Brother Richard Cook, C.F.X. and Brother William Drinan, C.F.X. Summer Curriculum Grants, an idea that was originally proposed by Teaching and Learning Committee Chairs, Mr. Pete Ball ’10 and Mrs. Jen Bowers, P ’21, P ’24, were created to support educators interested in exploring innovative practices that connect neuroscience and pedagogy to strengthen student learning. The Brother Richard Cook, C.F.X. Grant funds 10 hours of work focused on implementing or developing MBE-informed strategies, while the Brother William Drinan, C.F.X. Grant supports 20 hours, providing faculty with the opportunity for a more in-depth exploration of MBE principles to advance teaching practices or create new resources that enhance student engagement and outcomes.

Xaverian faculty and staff were encouraged to apply, either individually or in pairs. Their submissions were then reviewed by a committee of colleagues and administrators, with the grant recipients being announced later that spring. Those selected for one of the four grants offered were asked to complete their work over the summer and be ready to share their findings with their peers at the beginning of the following academic year.

The following four grant applications received funding in the summer of 2025: 

Mr. Conor Hawley ’13 
Mr. Hawley developed a series of targeted “Do Nows/Mini Quizzes” to strengthen algebra and trigonometry foundations for Introduction to Calculus AB students. Using MBE principles and formative assessment, he redesigned portions of the curriculum to better support students who need more practice and interleaving to retain key skills. The project also shifted his broader approach to feedback and assessment across his classes.

Mr. Steve Steinbergher and Mrs. Jen Sullivan, P ’23, ’26, ’26, ’29
Mr. Steinbergher and Mrs. Sullivan redesigned the FXD Study Skills curriculum to fully integrate MBE principles and implement a more scaffolded, skills-based approach for grades 7 and 8. Their updates include new formative assessments, lessons on the science of learning, and practical tools such as an organization checklist for students. The revised curriculum now better reflects current understanding of effective learning and supports students more systematically.

Mr. Mark Watson
Mr. Watson overhauled the Marine Science curriculum by adding hands-on engineering experiences, including a new unit where students design and build Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs) capable of collecting water data. The enhanced course now incorporates real-world ocean mapping partnerships, iterative engineering skills, and 21st-century problem-solving. Students have already begun coding, 3D design, and electrical work as they prepare for underwater exploration and a culminating ROV competition.

Mr. Chris Gruslin
Mr. Gruslin created tools to integrate theology with the arts using MBE principles, aiming to deepen student engagement and strengthen both intellectual and spiritual formation. His project supports the department’s long-term goal of revitalizing the relationship between faith and creative expression, especially through increased use of the X-Ploration Center. As department chair, he plans to incorporate these innovations into the broader theology curriculum.

Dr. Stephen Dacey ’95, P ’31, Xaverian’s Assistant Principal for Teaching and Learning, was pleased at the enthusiastic response from faculty who took part. He credits them with the program’s success. “I believe this grant program reflects the ingenuity of the faculty who proposed it, the professionalism, creativity, and innovation of those who participated, and the administration’s ongoing commitment to supporting opportunities for professional growth.” 

The inaugural recipients share Dr. Dacey’s sentiment. Mr. Watson expressed gratitude for the introduction of the grants, noting that they reflect the administration’s commitment to strengthening the curriculum and supporting faculty growth. Mr. Gruslin echo’s Mr. Watson’s appreciation, saying, “This experience was personally enriching and professionally effective for our departmental goals. I am very thankful to Xaverian for setting aside grant funding for this opportunity.”

With the success of the first year of grants, Mrs. Jen Bowers is pleased to share that the program will continue in the summer of 2026. “Our faculty care deeply about developing their craft and continuing to incorporate MBE concepts in ways that advance student learning,” she says. “Teachers from across all subject areas embraced the chance to grow their curriculum and challenge themselves pedagogically with the support these grants provided. We can’t wait to see what they develop next to further enhance learning for our students.” Mr. Steinbergher adds, “I believe the Summer Curriculum Grant offers a rewarding experience for any educational professional and has a direct, positive impact on student learning in the classroom.” Their shared enthusiasm underscores a growing culture of innovation that will continue to shape the Xaverian classroom for years to come.



Not pictured: Mr. Chris Gruslin