The Foundation for Allen Schools is putting $134,565 into Allen ISD classrooms for the 2026-27 school year through 84 educational grants involving more than 200 teachers and thousands of students.

Foundation Director Laura Sherwood and Board President Audrey Reed presented a ceremonial check to the Allen ISD Board of Trustees on Monday, Sept. 28, marking another round of funding for hands-on projects across the district.

The grants span every level, pre-K through high school.

Among the funded projects: "Little Bots, Big Brains," a $2,820 robotics program at Cheatham Elementary; "The Cognitive Lab," a $1,200 set of problem-solving stations at Allen High School; and "Centergize - Look Outside," a $1,600 outdoor learning initiative at Anderson Early Childhood School.

Curtis Middle School received $340 for "Career Quest: A Future of Possibilities." Dillard Special Achievement Center landed $1,000 for "Eagle Creations," and Special Services secured $1,000 for a district-wide motor lab supporting special education students.

Since the grant program began, the Foundation has awarded more than 2,000 grants totaling $2.3 million. The organization has invested more than $5 million in Allen ISD programs since 1997, a figure that includes scholarships and teacher mentorship stipends alongside classroom grants. The Foundation plans to mark its 30-year partnership with the district in 2027.

Special Services students craft first-responder tribute

At the same Sept. 28 meeting, the board recognized students in the Allen ISD Special Services Program for a different kind of project.

The students designed and handcrafted buttons and cards to honor City of Allen first responders ahead of First Responders Day on Oct. 28. Each piece was made in student workshops and classrooms. The project doubles as job-skills training: students in the program build independence and practical abilities through real-world tasks.

Teachers Sohail Marey, Lisa Trees and Adam Wright led the effort. The board accepted the handmade gifts at the meeting, and the items will be delivered to first responders in October.

Upcoming community dates

  • Oct. 28: First Responders Day; Allen ISD Special Services students' handmade gifts to be presented to City of Allen first responders
  • 2027: Foundation for Allen Schools 30-year anniversary celebration (date not yet announced)