The SSISD Education Foundation, a 501c3 public charity organization, annually provides innovative teacher grants for projects at SSISD that enhance student learning and support the school district’s mission. The Foundation is proud to announce that $6,000 has been awarded to this year’s recipients for innovative educational projects at SSISD.
Annual grant applications are submitted by local educators from San Saba ISD for innovative educational classroom and/or campus projects. These applications are reviewed and approved by the SSISD Education Foundation Board of Directors including Kristen Nelson, Mikey Bishop, Debbie Shahan, Marsha Smart, and Kevin Shahan. Previous grant awards have included grant funding for new musical instruments and music for the SSES Music Program, art supplies and equipment for the SSHS Art Program, computer equipment for the SSHS Armadillo Band, and various other SSHS needs for safety and security equipment.
This year's projects selected for awards include grants awarded to the Texas Association of Future Educators (TAFE) for upcoming competitions at area, state, and national levels. Funds awarded will be used to purchase computer equipment for assistance in the design and digital layout of original children’s literature books tailored for Pre-K, and Kindergarten through 3rd grade students. This project will impact the SSHS TAFE chapter, which currently consists of thirty-three students who participate in the Education and Training Pathway. The TAFE program, which continues to be a very successful SSHS program, is under the direction of Terri Ellis.
Additionally, a grant has been awarded this year to the SSHS One Act Play (OAP) for theatre lighting equipment for the theatre stage. The OAP is directed by Chans Moellendorf with assistance from Misty Moellendorf. A grant has also been approved for a new “Adopt-A-Buddy” Writing Project for over 90 SSISD 3rd grade and 7th grade students. This writing and publishing project is led by Rebecca Owen, Samantha Kruger, Tai Hewitt, Diana McKenna, and Marci Teel, all excellent educators who aim to help students with creativity, higher-level thinking, and writing skills. The final grant award for the 2026-2027 fiscal year is for the SSHS Art Program, which continues to provide excellent opportunities for local high school art students under the direction of Art Director, Shara Wright. Grant funding this year will provide a new ceramic kiln in the SSHS Art Department.
Congratulations to this year's local educators and SSISD campuses selected for annual innovative teacher grants! We would gladly welcome your financial support for our local educators through the SSISD Education Foundation. If you would like to provide a deductible financial gift to support local teachers and students, please contact San Saba ISD or a board member. Our goal is to support the educational aspirations of SSISD teachers to continuously improve classroom instruction and to provide funding for the enhancement of student learning and achievement.