Foundation raises $125K at Gala
The Round Rock ISD Partners in Education Foundation raised thousands of dollars for educational programs in the district at its annual Shining Stars Gala on April 19.

The star-studded night included dinner, dancing, casino play, a silent and live auction with all the proceeds going toward various programs supported by RRISD. This year’s sold-out event raised $125,000 after expenses, up from the $83,000 raised at last year’s Gala.

RRISD Superintendent Jesús Chávez said he was pleased to see the large turnout of business and community members to support the school district and the 40,000-plus students it serves.

“National and state standards and accountability continue to increase while funding does not,” Chávez said.

“The programs supported financially by the RRISD Partners in Education Foundation reward innovative educational opportunities, support at-risk students through mentoring and afterschool programming, award scholarships for community service, and provide school supplies to economically disadvantaged students,” Chávez said.

The Foundation supports academic excellence and opportunities in RRISD schools by funding innovative programs which benefits students throughout the district.

“The RRISD Partners in Education Foundation was created to bring together community members, business and civic leaders and parents to support and promote educational excellence in Round Rock ISD,” PIE Foundation Board member and Gala Chair Jeff Andresen said. “The Gala is an outstanding example of what our collaboration can achieve.” MORE

Teachers Receive Foundation Grants to Fund Programs
Round Rock ISD teachers at eight campuses were surprised with certificates and the news that they were the winners of Excellence in Education Grants. The Round Rock ISD Education Foundation sponsors the grant program to provide funding for resources and tools that can significantly and positively impact student achievement and learning. Grants of up to $5,000 are available to groups of Round Rock ISD educators and/or administrators for projects that support best instructional practices benefiting students in a grade level, school, group of schools, or district-wide. The Foundation awarded more than $25,000 to teachers across the district for educational programs. MORE

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