Grants fund innovative projects
The Junior League of Dallas has awarded 35 Dallas ISD teachers grants of up to $2,500 each through the annual Grants for Innovative Teaching that fund special projects addressing reading and literacy enrichment; diversity; special education; science, technology, STEM; or arts and culture enrichment across one or more grade levels.
A total of $79,541 was awarded to Dallas ISD teachers thanks to Texas Instruments, the presenting sponsor. This is TI’s 15th year to support the Junior League of Dallas’ Grants for Innovative Teaching.
“Teachers mean more to students’ academic success than any other part of the academic experience,” said Andy Smith, TI director of giving and volunteering. “They serve as role models and champions for their students, all while preparing them for future success.”
Through the years, the program has awarded more than $2.2 million to Dallas ISD educators, and this year it will indirectly impact more than 60,000 students.
“The projects awarded this year highlight creative teaching that elevates the learning experiences for thousands of Dallas ISD students,” JLD president Tandra Allen said. “The funding of these grants is made possible through the visionary donations of our sponsors including Texas Instruments and The Agnes Cluthe Oliver Foundation. Their continued generosity is an investment in the promise of every student’s potential.”
Teachers who received grants
| Educator Name | School | Amount |
| Beatriz Bustamante | Annie Webb Blanton Elementary School | $2,429.00 |
| Robert Jeter | Bryan Adams High School | $2,489.00 |
| Karen Colbert Rolle | D.A. Hulcy Middle School | $2,500.00 |
| Marvin Gonzalez | Downtown Montessori at Ida B. Wells Academy | $2,481.14 |
| Kendra Armstrong | Dr. L.G. Pinkston Sr High School, H-TECH | $2,500.00 |
| Theran Hernandez, Ph. D. | Dr. L.G. Pinkston Sr. High School | $2,500.00 |
| Alexandria Saulnier McKinin | Edward Titche Elementary School | $1,231.23 |
| Mark Broughton | Environmental Education Center | $2,453.00 |
| Sara Ramirez | Environmental Education Center | $2,361.34 |
| Brandy Verseckes | Frank Guzick Elementary School | $1,880.00 |
| Shakirae Ajaga | George W. Truett Elementary School | $1,562.40 |
| Brandon Carter | George W. Truett Elementary School | $2,499.97 |
| Lecharia Scales | George W. Truett Elementary School | $1,699.19 |
| Candace Klein | George W. Truett Elementary School | $1,328.00 |
| Jonathon Hollins/Megan Vance | Harold Wendell Lang Sr. Middle School | $2,500.00 |
| Megan Vance/Jonathon Hollins | Harold Wendell Lang Sr. Middle School | $2,500.00 |
| Mykel Estes | Henry W. Longfellow Career Exploration Academy | $2,447.96 |
| Arianna Zeb | Lee McShan Elementary School | $2,495.87 |
| Leslie Correa | Leonides Gonzalez Cigarroa Elementary School | $2,491.83 |
| Angela Gier | Maple Lawn Elementary School | $2,497.00 |
| Pamela Jenkins | Martin Weiss Elementary School | $2,494.77 |
| Javiar Alvarado | Margaret B. Henderson Elementary School | $2,497.92 |
| Cristina Rachuig | Robert T. Hill Middle School | $2,500.00 |
| Michael Oconner | Robert T. Hill Middle School | $2,428.83 |
| Dorcas Kassebaum | Ronald E. McNair Elementary School | $1,981.31 |
| Julie Fontenot | Rosemont Middle School | $2,244.70 |
| Keishar Dewberry | School for the Talented and Gifted | $1,773.31 |
| Blake Mokate | Skyline High School | $2,481.97 |
| Jasmine Jones | Skyline High School | $2,241.33 |
| Natalia Davis | Solar Prep for Boys | $2,500.00 |
| Brittaney Smash | South Oak Cliff High School | $2,399.95 |
| Gianna LoScerbo Starkus | Sunset High School | $2,497.08 |
| Ward Coats | Thomas Jefferson High School | $2,000.00 |
| Jennifer Rottkamp | W.H. Adamson High School | $2,500.00 |
| John Fore | Young Women’s STEAM Academy at Balch Springs | $2,153.00 |
