This post by Jeanne Prejeann first appeared on My Sweet Charity on July 25, 2025.
According to United To Learn‘s Learning Launch Co-Chair Kelley Parel,
“As Dallas prepares for another school year, we have an opportunity to ensure our educators and students start strong. United to Learn’s Learning Launch initiative recognizes that when educators and students have the resources they need, remarkable things happen in classrooms across our city.
“United to Learn offers vital support to Dallas ISD’s youngest and most impressionable learners, as well as their educators. Their Learning Launch program provides schools with funds to purchase essential back-to-school items for educators and students. Seemingly simple things such as new backpacks and uniforms bring laughter, ignite confidence, and allow children to focus on what really matters…learning. This is why my husband, Scott [Parel], and I are honored to co-chair Learning Launch this year.
A Customized Approach That Works
“Learning Launch’s strength lies in its partnership model: educators identify what their students and classrooms need, and our community provides the support to make it happen. This creates positive learning environments where educators can focus on inspiring and teaching so that children can discover, grow, and achieve.
“When the 2025-2026 school year begins, Learning Launch will support 63,600 students across 129 Dallas ISD elementary schools. Presented by Atmos Energy, the program allows schools to order educator-requested supplies and create engaging campus experiences. From STEM stations and phonics kits to cozy reading nooks and math manipulatives, these resources transform classrooms into vibrant learning environments. Schools can also stock care closets with backpacks and uniforms for students who need them, while Campus Liftoff events bring excitement to the start of the year with DJs, food trucks, and family learning nights that build community.
How You Can Help
“Your support can make a meaningful difference in a student’s educational journey. Make a gift by Sunday, August 31, to help with schools’ most urgent back-to-school needs.
- “Donate: Visit unitedtolearn.org/learninglaunch to contribute.
- “Volunteer: Subscribe to receive updates on volunteer opportunities.
- “Learn More: Discover United to Learn’s wrap-around approach to supporting elementary education at unitedtolearn.org.
“Since 2017, Learning Launch has steadily grown, raising over $1.4 million for school resources. Last year alone, the campaign raised approximately $300,000, demonstrating our community’s ongoing commitment to education.
“While public school budgets remain constrained, our community has the power to bridge that gap. Dallas teachers dedicate countless hours and personal resources to their students—Learning Launch provides a way for us to support them in return.
“Together, we’re building a foundation for student success. When we support our schools, we strengthen our entire Dallas community.”
About the Author: Kelley Parel volunteers for United to Learn as a school liaison and serves as the 2025 Learning Launch Co-Chair alongside her husband Scott. Scott Parel is a co-managing partner of the Sidley Austin LLP Dallas office and co-leader of the firm’s global Private Equity practice. They are passionate about supporting Dallas ISD educators and ensuring every student has access to the resources they need to succeed.