lcef grants

Innovative Teaching Grants

The Lake Cities Education Foundation awards grants to teachers and teams of teachers at Lake Dallas ISD.  These grants are designed to encourage, facilitate, recognize and reward innovative and creative instructional approaches for educating LDISD students.

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2024-2025 INNOVATIVE TEACHER GRANTS

The Lake Cities Education Foundation recently awarded $34,000 in grants to Lake Dallas ISD educators to fund unique and innovative projects designed to further strengthen classroom experiences for students, with each district campus earning at least one grant.

The Lake Cities Education Foundation annually works to support Lake Dallas ISD and enhance educational opportunities through two primary initiatives, student scholarships and educator grants. Since its founding, the foundation has awarded more than $618,000 in scholarships for graduating seniors and more than $424,000 in grants for educational projects and initiatives.

School to Home Instructional Support Kits

CAROL HEIDEMANN MEMORIAL TEACHER GRANT ENDOWMENT GRANT DIRECTOR: FRANCES BASSHAM, LAKE DALLAS ELEMENTARY

Abstract:

Through this grant, students will have the opportunity to further develop their understanding of crucial math and literacy skills. They will receive foundational instruction in class, and then, through the use of the proposed activities, be able to improve their skills through at home application. This arrangement will also foster improved home-school relationships and create another opportunity for parents to deepen their involvement and understanding of their students’ academic progress.

Two women are smiling and holding a large check and a ribbon with the logo of Lake Cities Education Foundation. The check is made out to Lake Dallas Elementary for $2,500 as a teacher grant donation, and the woman on the right is holding a sign indicating they are grant recipients for 2024-2025. The background includes classroom decorations and supplies.

$2500

GRANT AMOUNT

Enhancing Social and Emotional Well-being Through Sensory Integration

LCEF DIRECTORS TEACHER GRANT ENDOWMENT GRANT DIRECTOR: LATONNE LEFTWICH, CORINTH ELEMENTARY

Abstract:

Students will have access to a dedicated space where they can engage with sensory tools and activities that help them manage stress, improve focus, and enhance self-regulation. As a result, the expectation is that students will exhibit better emotional resilience, improved interpersonal skills, and a more positive school environment, ultimately leading to enhanced academic performance and overall student well-being. Many students can benefit from a sensory room and it will be accessible to everyone. This inclusive approach ensures that all students have the opportunity to utilize the sensory room and gain its advantages.

Group of adults standing indoors, holding a large ceremonial check for $2,500 made out to Corinth Elementary, during a donation event in January 2025.

$2500

GRANT AMOUNT

Spotlight Sessions: Learning Through the Lens

ELIZABETH ESPOLT/CORINTH ELEMENTARY, LAKE DALLAS ELEMENTARY, SHADY SHORES ELEMENTARY

Abstract:

The recording of teachers in the classroom serves as a valuable tool for professional development and instructional improvement. By capturing instructional strategies, classroom interactions, and student engagement, recordings provide insights into teaching practices, enabling educators to reflect on their performance and identify areas for growth. Reviewing successful teaching practices observed in recorded lessons, teachers can learn new teaching strategies. These insights can then be implemented in their own classrooms, contributing to improved academic performance among students. Moreover, these recordings facilitate peer observation, mentoring opportunities, and the sharing of best practices among faculty. Ultimately, teacher recordings contribute to enhanced educational outcomes by fostering a culture of continuous improvement and collaboration within the teaching community.

A woman with long blonde hair, wearing a black blazer with green striped shirt cuffs, green jewelry, and earrings, looks surprised with her hands clasped together.

$4,413.72

GRANT AMOUNT

Falcon Lego Robotics

COSERV CHARITABLE FOUNDATION GRANT & JOSEPHINE HUGHES STERLING TEACHER GRANT - GRANT DIRECTOR: KAREN ANDERSON, KAMI TIPPS, ALLISON MCCOWN, LAKE DALLAS ELEMENTARY/SHADY SHORES ELEMENTARY/CORINTH ELEMENTARY

Abstract:

Lake Dallas ISD elementary schools seek to further their STEAM initiative by providing computer coding resources to all elementary aged students. This approach will continue to develop our young students’ communication, collaboration, critical thinking and creativity, equitably preparing all ages for the future.

Group of adults standing together in a classroom, holding a large donation check for $4,160.00 made out to Shady Shores Elementary, with smiling faces and various expressions of celebration. The classroom is decorated with patriotic and motivational decor.

$12,480

GRANT AMOUNT

3D Printing for Elementary Students

COSERV CHARITABLE FOUNDATION GRANT
GRANT DIRECTOR: KAMI TIPPS & JESSICA PHILLIPS/SHADY SHORES ELEMENTARY

Abstract:

Shady Shores Elementary strives to enrich the curriculum and experiences for its students. In conjunction with our district’s STEAM initiative, this grant will facilitate hands-on interactive learning projects through the use of 3-D printing.

Group of people in a classroom holding a large check for $2,500 from Lake Cities Education Foundation, dated January 2025, awarded to Shady Shores Elementary, with classroom decorations and a whiteboard in the background.

$2500

GRANT AMOUNT

Connection Corner for High School Students

JOSEPHINE HUGHES STERLING TEACHER GRANT GRANT DIRECTOR: DR. KATHY SHAEFFER & TAYLOR SETLIFF, LAKE DALLAS HIGH SCHOOL

Abstract:

Social isolation in high school can have negative effects on students’ mental, emotional, and academic well-being. These challenges often lead to a sense of alienation and hinder students from reaching their full potential. This program will focus on promoting overall well-being by creating spaces where students can connect with others and engage in meaningful activities.

Two women indoors, one with long curly hair in a green sweatshirt and a lanyard, smiling, and the other with short blonde hair in a green patterned jacket, holding a pointing stick, engaged in conversation.

$5000

GRANT AMOUNT

Creating a Zen Zone: A Mindfulness and Relaxation Space for LDMS Students

DROZD FAMILY TEACHERGRANT
GRANT DIRECTOR: HEATHER AKINS, LAKE DALLAS MIDDLE SCHOOL

Abstract:

As students navigate the increasing demands of academic, social, and personal life, mental wellness becomes a critical factor in fostering a thriving campus community. This grant will provide a designated, serene space on campus designed to promote mindfulness, reduce stress, and enhance emotional well-being for our students. The Zen Zone will include a variety of resources to support relaxation and wellness activities.

Four people standing indoors, holding a large check made out to Lake Dallas Middle School for $5000, presented by the Lake Cities Education Foundation in January 2025, as part of a teacher grant endowment for creating relaxation space for students.

$5000

GRANT AMOUNT

Book Lending Program for Pre-K Families

LCEF DIRECTORS TEACHER GRANT ENDOWMENT GRANT DIRECTOR: GLORIA BRANDT, LAKE DALLAS ELEMENTARY

Abstract:

Early exposure to literature is crucial to developing students’ curiosity, listening skills, and a cornerstone to the foundation of learning. This program aims to foster early literacy and language development by providing diverse, age-appropriate books in English and Spanish. The initiative will support all learners and enhance cultural awareness among all students.

A woman smiling and holding a large check for $2,500 made out to Lake Dallas Elementary School in a classroom setting with students sitting at desks.

$2500

GRANT AMOUNT

Empowering Literacy Through Books: Mirrors and Windows

ROBIN HASSERD MEMORIAL TEACHER GRANT GRANT DIRECTOR: JESSICA MONDONO, LAKE DALLAS ELEMENTARY

Abstract:

Reading is a critical foundation for academic success, fostering skills in comprehension, vocabulary, and critical thinking. The goal of this grant is to provide a culturally and linguistically diverse collection of books that will engage students' interests and support their literacy development. This grant will enrich Ms. Mondano’s classroom library with resources that will allow her wonderfully diverse group of students to see a reflection of themselves in books at various reading levels.

Group of children and a woman in a classroom holding a large check for $2,460.42 made out to Lake Dallas Elementary, celebrating a grant award from Lake Cities Education Foundation; one child holds a smaller sign showing the grant recipient for 2024-2025.

$2460.42

GRANT AMOUNT

Academics Are Instrumental

DATCU INNOVATIVE ENDOWED TEACHER GRANT GRANT DIRECTOR: ANGELA REID

Abstract:

Through the implementation of newly acquired instruments, LDE will experience improved student engagement in the areas of daily application and routine performances. Playing instruments regularly aids in reading music, improves cognitive growth, and improves test scores in math and science. Playing instruments also develops fine motor skills. Parents will get to see students improve musically through performances throughout the school years as well as emotional and academic growth.

A group of elementary school students and teachers posing on stairs with a large check for $5000, awarded by Lake Cities Education Foundation to Lake Dallas Elementary in January 2025.

$5000

GRANT AMOUNT

Sparking Creativity through STEM in the Library

GARY AND DEENA PEPPERS TEACHER GRANT GRANT DIRECTOR: HEATHER CHAMBERS, LAKE DALLAS MIDDLE SCHOOL

Abstract:

This grant aims to enhance the STEM materials collection in our middle school library. As the demand for STEM resources grows, this funding will enable us to acquire materials that sparks creativity and critical thinking. Students will benefit from engaging with hands-on projects independently, collaborating in groups, or participating in class activities. Our goal is to empower our students to explore and create within the library.

Group of adults and students in a library holding a large check from Lake Dallas Education Foundation for $1,645.86, January 2023.

$1645.86

GRANT AMOUNT

Teach to Learn

BOEING/ATMOS/WALMART TEACHER GRANT ENDOWMENTS GRANT DIRECTOR: ALEXANDRIA DUBEK, CORINTH ELEMENTARY

Front view of Corinth Elementary School with a brick building, an American flag, a Texas flag, and a sign displaying the school's name and address.

Abstract:

This grant will provide iPads to help integrate technology into the classrooms. The iPads will serve as a tool for students to create videos of the activities, games and sports the students have learned in their physical education class. These videos will create a library for students to access in and outside of school.

$2500

GRANT AMOUNT

Wall of Learning

ROBIN GOODALE MEMORIAL TEACHER GRANT ENDOWMENT GRANT DIRECTOR: SARA SCHMIDT, LAKE DALLAS ELEMENTARY

Abstract:

Students will explore a magnetic galvanized steel wall that holds different materials to create different routes for balls to travel. In addition, a set of magnetic wooden gears allows students to set up different systems. A STEAM/tactile wall builds fine motor, critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Additionally, the wall aims to inspire curiosity, build confidence, and provide an inclusive, dynamic space for experiential learning within the school community. The STEAM wall will align with curriculum standards and promote exploration of cross-curricular concepts.

Two women standing behind a group of children seated on a rainbow-colored rug in a library. One woman holds a large check for $2,500, and the other holds a certificate. The children are smiling and the library shelves are filled with books.

$2500

GRANT AMOUNT

Discovering Communities: The Power of Play

LORA MCCARTY HENDERSON MEMORIAL TEACHER GRANT ENDOWMENT GRANT DIRECTOR: VICTORIA BOZARTH

Abstract:

The classroom serves as an essential environment where children first encounter diverse cultures, fostering understanding and appreciation for differences among peers from various backgrounds. Students learn best through active role play and having direct experiences with diverse cultures and community helpers. Giving students these direct experiences will allow them to grow their linguistic abilities to explain what their communities are, who they are, and what their active role is. This grant will provide materials and resources to aid students in exploring their community.

Group of adults and children in a classroom holding a large check and a small flag, celebrating an award or donation. Decor includes red balloons and educational posters.

$2500

GRANT AMOUNT

Funding for these grants was provided through contributions to the Lake Cities Education Foundation from individual donors, businesses and corporations. All donations are tax deductible. For more information, contact the Lake Cities Education Foundation at 940-497-5233.