Nora Gregersen, special education teacher at Discovery Alternative High School, received a surprise at the April 19 South Kitsap School District board meeting.

Gregersen recently submitted a proposal for the CenturyLink Teachers and Technology Program, an initiative that provides grants designed to help fund projects that advance student success through the innovative use of technology.

Gregersen’s grant project, titled Student Engagement in the 21st Century, was selected. A representative from CenturyLink attended the meeting to honor her with a giant check, balloons and a $3,200 award.

Gregersen’s project proposal beat out more than 2,000 other applicants. The grant funds will be used to purchase an interactive projector and screen for Gregersen’s classroom.

“My goal is to bring technology into the 21st century within my classroom and ensure that my students learn the skills needed to succeed in an ever-changing and competitive society,” Gregersen said in a news release.