VOLUME 2
Uyen Griffis – Hammond Hills Elementary.
Mrs. Uyen Griffis of Hammond Hills Elementory has served Aiken County Public Schools for 27 years, specializing in special education for children and adults with varying exceptionalities, ages 3–21. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Special Education and a Master of Special Education in Varying Exceptionalities, both from the University of South Florida.
This spring, Mrs. Griffis received a PEP Innovation Grant for her A+ for Green Choices project which helps early learners—especially those with special needs—develop self-awareness and responsible decision-making. The program teaches students to identify “green choices” (positive behaviors) and “red choices” (undesirable behaviors) through structured activities and a reward system. The result is a nurturing classroom culture that celebrates positive behavior and supports emotional growth.
The grant funded sensory-rich materials tailored to diverse learning styles, fostering hands-on engagement and supporting emotional regulation, self-confidence, and social interaction. As Mrs. Griffis shared, “This project has been incredibly valuable to both my students and me. It provided the tools and structure needed to support positive behavior in a way that is clear, consistent, and meaningful for young learners. Since implementing the program, I’ve observed noticeable growth in my students’ ability to manage their emotions, make more thoughtful decisions, and engage more positively with their peers. Disruptive behaviors have decreased, while confidence and cooperation have grown.”
PEP Classroom Innovation Grants are awarded twice a year and provide vital resources to Aiken County public school teachers. PEP is proud to be the only nonprofit in Aiken County focused solely on supporting the public school system. To learn more, apply for a grant, or support PEP programs, visit PEPAiken.org or follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
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