Austin Ed Fund Raises $300K-Plus For Students, Teachers

AUSTIN, TX — Austin Ed Fund, a recognized "champion" of the Austin ISD raised more than $300,000 at its recent Inspire the Future luncheon benefiting teachers and students, officials revealed Thursday.

Emceed by Crockett Early College High School seniors, Najai McKenzie-Robinson and Walter Esparza, the event celebrated school district students and teachers while featuring the "State of the District" address by superintendent Dr. Paul Cruz, officials said.

Guests were able to hear from students and teachers who received funds from Austin Ed Fund through both the Student Opportunity Fund and Innovation Grants. The gathering focused on projects and opportunities — such as one led by Austin ISD teacher Eric Shaffer centered on an innovative coffee maker made by his students — that these grants were able to bring into their classrooms.

Not to be left behind, students also played a huge role in the production of the afternoon. Travis Early College High School Rebel Cheerleaders and the Covington Middle School Orchestra welcomed guests followed by performances by the Northeast Early College High School Soul Raider Band Drumline and McCallum HS theater student Owen Scales.

This year, Austin Ed Fund awarded over $170,000 in grants and funded 48 projects across Austin ISD. These grants allowed the funding of projects in STEM, whole child and literacy. While these numbers are impressive, officials noted, the reality is that as Austin ISD continues to grow and the resources needed far outnumber what is currently available and outside donations have become vital.

Following a welcome from Austin Mayor Steve Adler (an honorary chair for the district), Sen. Kirk Watson spoke on the Student Opportunity Fund and touched on the funding gap. This year, district officials noted, $37,000 was allocated towards the Student Opportunity Fund. However, applications requesting funding for various needs and initiatives across AISD schools totaled around $295,000, according to the school district.

Officials said the Inspire the Future luncheon and similar events, coupled with overall awareness of Austin Ed Fund, are essential to support the needs in our classrooms.