28 Dallas ISD Teachers Awarded Classroom Support Grants This Spring

Midway through the school year, a new teacher has found their rhythm. They know their students, they know what works, and they know exactly what their classroom still needs. Too often, that means reaching into their own pockets to fill the gaps, or simply going without.

That’s where United to Learn comes in.

This spring, United to Learn proudly awarded 28 New Teacher Support Grants to educators across Dallas ISD, providing direct funding to help new teachers build strong classroom foundations, create engaging learning environments, and grow their careers with confidence. Made possible in part through a generous contribution from the College Football Playoff Foundation, these grants are part of United to Learn’s commitment to strengthening Dallas classrooms from the inside out.

This school year, United to Learn has awarded over 50 grants totaling more than $25,000 because when teachers feel equipped and supported, students thrive.

What the Grants Fund

Each grant provides at least $500 in direct funding. Teachers use these resources to build the kind of classrooms where every student can succeed:

• Classroom supplies and instructional materials
• Literacy, arts, and STEM resources
• Flexible seating and student engagement tools
• Organizational systems that support strong classroom routines

Teacher Stories: Building Classrooms with Impact

Restoring the Joy of Music: Serena Santospieve, C.A. Tatum Jr. Elementary

Serena Santospieve believes every student deserves the chance to make music, not just listen to it. But at C.A. Tatum Jr. Elementary, that vision was being held back by a practical problem: many of the school’s Orff instruments were missing keys. During the school’s holiday music program, only one instrument was in usable condition.

“With these repairs, I can provide students with access to the meaningful instrumental component of our music class. It allows me to assist students who are eager to explore music beyond singing and gives them the opportunity to create and express themselves through our instruments.”

With her $1,250 New Teacher Support Grant — the largest awarded this spring — Serena will restore those instruments so students can collaborate, experiment, and perform together. No more watching from the sidelines.

“Restoring these Orff instruments would allow more students to participate fully and engage in music-making in more diverse and creative ways.”

Creating Structure, Focus, and Opportunity: Nadia Crawford, Albert C. Black STEAM Academy

Nadia Crawford has a clear vision for her classroom: a space intentionally designed so that every student, especially those who need individualized support, can access the curriculum with confidence.

Her grant will fund hands-on learning materials, sensory supports, flexible seating, and instructional resources that promote focus, emotional regulation, and active engagement. The goal is a classroom where clear routines reduce distractions, and students spend more time learning.

“These resources will directly enhance my effectiveness as an educator by allowing me to meet diverse learning needs more efficiently and with greater impact.”

The result, Nadia explains, is stronger engagement, higher expectations, and better outcomes for her students.

“Because of your kindness, my students will have access to resources that make learning more engaging, hands-on, and meaningful. We are truly grateful that you believe in our students and their education.”

Congratulations to Our Spring 2026 Grant Recipients

• Albert C. Black STEAM Academy: Gissella Alquizar, Jamaya Barkley, Nadia Crawford, Nancy Perez, Veronica Gallegos
• Alex Sanger Preparatory: Kenedi Barbre
• Ascher Silberstein Elementary: Isabella Carrascal
• C.A. Tatum Jr. Elementary: L’Daija Moten, Megan Johnson, Serena Santospieve*
• Charles Rice Learning Center: Bradley Johnson
• Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Arts Academy: Charisma Kirby, Elena Hughes
• Ebby Halliday Elementary: Maria Calderon, Paola Melo
• Eddie Bernice Johnson STEM Academy: Eveling Mercado
• Edward Titche Elementary: Katie Fuentes
• Geneva Heights Elementary: Jacy Gibbs
• J.N. Ervin Elementary: Danzell Sims
• L.L. Hotchkiss Elementary: David Jimenez
• Larry G. Smith Elementary: Andrea Mila, Pamela Claure Siles
• Mount Auburn STEAM Academy: Monay Daniels
• Paul L. Dunbar Learning Center: Saira Negret
• Rufus C. Burleson Elementary: Jashalyn Breedlove
• Sylvia Mendez CREW Leadership Academy: Jacqueline Garcia, Jennifer Sanchez
• William Brown Miller Elementary: Tyler Brown

*Recipient received a $1,250 grant.

Thank You for Believing in Teachers

None of this is possible without community. Through the generous support of donors and partners — including the College Football Playoff Foundation — United to Learn has awarded over 50 grants totaling more than $25,000 to new Dallas ISD teachers this school year.

Because of that support, teachers across the district are stepping into their classrooms equipped, energized, and ready. And students are benefiting from day one.

Together, we are strengthening classrooms and empowering the educators who lead them.

Know a New Teacher Who Could Benefit?

If you know a new teacher at a United to Learn Network School, encourage them to follow @unitedtolearn on social media to be the first to know when the next round of applications opens.