Lamar Educational Awards Foundation (LEAF) Awards Over $325K in Grants to Lamar CISD Teachers
For hundreds of teachers in Lamar Consolidated Independent School District (LCISD), the holiday season came early this year. The Lamar Educational Awards Foundation (LEAF) surprised 350 educators with a total of $325,104.54 in grants, funding over 148 innovative classroom projects. This year’s grant cycle marks a significant increase in support, with the number of grants awarded rising sharply from 48 last year, offering teachers the opportunity to enhance their lessons and engage students in new, exciting ways.
On December 4, LEAF hosted its annual "Grant Express" event, where 81 foundation representatives, district administrators, and community partners took to the buses to personally deliver giant checks to surprised teachers across the district. The festive day was filled with excitement and gratitude as educators were honored for their dedication to student success.
Among the recipients was Jessica Lobitz, a first-year teacher at Lamar Consolidated High School. After a 13-year career as a registered nurse, Lobitz transitioned into teaching health science, and received a $1,495 grant to purchase mannequins and other essential health supplies, including crutches and a wheelchair.
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“I’m trying to utilize my knowledge and apply it to [my students],” said Lobitz. “We are really trying to build this Health Science program, and it benefits us as a community because our kids are the ones who are going to take care of us. The more I can give to them, the more better off they will be.”
This year’s grant process saw 389 applications submitted for consideration, with a total of 42 campuses receiving funding for a wide variety of projects. The successful applications ranged from field trips to exploring artificial intelligence in healthcare, to programs that blend literacy and STEAM subjects. Teachers will use the funding to enrich the learning experience for students across Lamar CISD, providing valuable opportunities to explore new topics and develop essential skills.
“On behalf of the Education Foundation, we are proud to invest over $325,000 in grants to support innovative projects that enhance student learning,” said Kameela Lewis, Executive Director of LEAF. “As our district experiences ‘hyper’ growth, the need for creative solutions in the classroom is more important than ever. These grants empower our dedicated teachers to inspire and engage students, while our Foundation remains committed to meeting the evolving needs of Lamar CISD, ensuring every student has the opportunity to succeed.”
Nancy Garcia, the principal of Ray Elementary School, learning that her school was The event also featured a strong showing of community support, with special guests from PBK, Stantec, Brazos Valley Credit Union, Equitable Advisors, HEB, and Pfluger Architects attending. Firehouse Subs of Rosenberg generously provided lunch for the volunteers who helped make the day possible.
For those interested in supporting the mission of LEAF, the Foundation encourages tax-deductible donations. To learn more or to become a "Friend of the Foundation," individuals can contact LEAF at LEAF@LCISD.org.
As Lamar CISD continues to grow, the LEAF grants remain a vital part of ensuring that teachers have the resources and support needed to inspire the next generation of learners, leaders, and innovators.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
