The Junior League of Dallas (JLD) and presenting sponsor Texas Instruments (TI) awarded 33 Dallas ISD educators with grants of up to $2,500 each through the annual Grants for Innovative Teaching (GFIT) program.
Thomas Jefferson High School, W.H. Adamson High School, and L.L. Hotchkiss Elementary School are among the Dallas ISD schools receiving funding this year.
The GFIT program is designed to encourage excellence in education by funding special projects addressing reading and literacy enrichment; diversity; special education; science, technology, engineering and math (STEM); or arts and culture enrichment across one or more grade levels.
“The Junior League of Dallas and Grants for Innovative Teaching Committee are proud to support Dallas ISD educators and their students with this annual program,” said JLD president Dr. Lindsay Davis. “The projects awarded this year highlight creative teaching that elevates the learning experiences for thousands of Dallas ISD students.”
This year, $77, 400 was distributed to support educators’ projects during a ceremony held Sept. 18, 2025, at Junior League of Dallas Headquarters. The funds will impact more than 69,750 students.
Davis thanked GFIT sponsors for their funding, including presenting sponsor Texas Instruments and The Agnes Cluthe Oliver Foundation.
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“Their continued generosity is an investment in the promise of every student’s potential,” she said.
Among the recipients were:
Ward Coats, of Jefferson High School, for “Structural Analysis of PTF1 Complexes in Pancreatic Development.”
Project description: Biology students at Thomas Jefferson High School are researching key protein complexes critical for pancreas formation, using advanced tools like PyMOL and 3D printers. This interdisciplinary project combines biology, computer science, and engineering, addressing a serious genetic disease while giving students real-world scientific experience.
Jennifer Rottkamp, of W.H. Adamson High School, for “Café Connections: Sowing Friendship, Serving Life Skills.”
Project description: Students at W.H. Adamson High School with significant cognitive disabilities will be provided with hands-on experience operating a coffee and smoothie cart for the faculty at the high school. Recognizing the need for inclusive opportunities for these students to develop essential life skills, the project focuses on three main components: social skills, money management, and interpersonal skills. By engaging in activities such as interacting with customers, handling transactions, and managing inventory, students are able to build valuable social and communication skills.
Albalicia Espino, of L.L. Hotchkiss Elementary School, for “Curious Hands: Revitalizing the PreK Sensory Lab.”
Project description: Students at L.L. Hotchkiss Elementary School will be introduced to new materials that promote cognitive development, creativity, and social skills, in an aim to revitalize the pre-K sensory lab. Teachers plan to create an immersive space for students to explore textures, colors, and sounds through hands-on activities. With tools like a light panel, dinosaur bone kits, sensory rice, and more, the sensory center will support brain development, motor skills, and teamwork, fostering curiosity and learning for every child.
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