Prize Patrol surprises educators 24 grants to bring innovative classroom ideas to life
The cheers, music and excitement of the Somerset ISD Education Foundation’s annual Prize Patrol rolled through Somerset ISD on Thursday, September 24, delivering more than just surprises—it delivered opportunities for students.
The Somerset ISD Education Foundation (SISDEF) awarded 24 innovative teacher grants totaling $51,000 to educators across the district. The grants will provide teachers with resources to enhance classroom instruction, support student learning and bring new ideas to life.
A spirit bus filled with community members, district administrators, cheerleaders and the Somerset High School drumline traveled from campus to campus to surprise the grant recipients. The celebration brought plenty of Bulldog Pride as teachers learned they had been selected to receive funding for their projects.
For Cheryl Cantu, a Somerset Elementary teacher, receiving a grant was especially meaningful. It was her first time applying for a grant, making the surprise even more special.
“I am super excited. It’s the first time I’ve ever written a grant, and to receive it makes me so overwhelmed,” Cantu said. “Oh my gosh, our special ed kids need so much extra support and help, so this will go a long way in getting them to cooperate in the classroom so that they can advance academically.”
Cantu’s grant will provide additional resources to support her students and help create meaningful opportunities for them to engage and succeed in the classroom.
Across the district, the grants will support a variety of innovative learning experiences. Projects include STEM kits for elementary students designed to strengthen math, science and fine motor skills, as well as Esports tools to expand the Cyber Scholars program at several campuses.
The annual Prize Patrol is made possible through the Somerset ISD Education Foundation’s year-round fundraising efforts. SISDEF supports Somerset ISD students and educators through student scholarships and teacher grants, helping provide resources and opportunities that extend beyond the traditional classroom budget.
For the educators who received grants, the investment represents more than new supplies or equipment it represents an investment in their ideas and in the students they serve.
The Somerset ISD Education Foundation and its community supporters continue to demonstrate what is possible when a community comes together to support education.
Congratulations to all 24 grant recipients, and thank you to the Somerset ISD Education Foundation for investing in our teachers and students!
$51,000 in grants. 24 educators. Countless opportunities for students.