KYLE — The Hays CISD Education Foundation announced a successful competition of its recent Grant Giveaway Day, a significant initiative to support educational excellence and innovation within the community.

On Tuesday, Feb. 20, the Hays CISD Education Foundation distributed a record-breaking $87,000 in grants to deserving educational projects, initiatives and professional development opportunities. This event marked a milestone in the foundation’s ongoing efforts to empower educators and students to enhance the learning experience in the Hays CISD community because it increased the average total award for the district by more than $20,000, according to a news release.

A diverse range of projects were selected to receive funding, covering areas such as technology, aviation programs and professional development, with 51 grants awarded in four categories: Innovative Teaching Grants, Collaborative Grants, Enriched Professional Development and 100% Hays CISD student grants.

“The Foundation board is proud of the large increase in grant awards that we made happen this year,” said Micah Petrea, president of the foundation. “We hope our teachers and students see this as a strong statement about our foundation’s commitment to making bigger and bolder investments in them. This is just the beginning.”

“I had shared with the foundation members that, in light of uncertain state funding, we have a growing need for support from the foundation. They heard my message and chose to respond with an unprecedented level of grant awards,” said Dr. Wright. “Hays CISD is the place where teachers want to be right now. The foundation’s continued and growing support will help us keep it that way.”