SEF Funds More Than 90 Projects Across District
SEF Funds More Than 90 Projects Across District
A total of 95 grants amounting to $131,803 for innovative projects and educational enrichment across Sherman ISD has been funded by the Sherman Education Foundation (SEF) through its annual Circle of Success Recognition Event on April 23.
Staff submitted grant proposals earlier in the year to be funded for the 2026-27 school year, and community support and donations made these grants possible.
“Through the generosity of the Sherman community and the hard work of teachers, our Bearcats will have more access to creative and in-depth experiences,” said Kathy Bickerstaff, executive director of SEF. “By investing in Sherman ISD schools, the community is helping to shape the next generation of scholars and leaders.”
SEF volunteers and honored students traveled campus to campus in early April to surprise the grant recipients, and proposals include curricular enhancements and innovative opportunities for staff and students alike.
“We are here not merely for a ceremony, but to witness and celebrate the progress of our students and the dedication of our educators,” said Edwin Clark, SEF President. “We gather to honor those whose character, perseverance and leadership serve as a beacon for us all.”
The grants funded for the 2026-27 school year include a hands-on history traveling trunk for both Piner and Sherman middle schools and makerspace improvements across all elementary schools. Various museum and field trips to enrich classroom lessons are also being funded.
The event also recognized eight outstanding Sherman High School seniors selected based on their character, service and leadership. Teachers first nominated students, and then finalists were selected by SEF Board members who are not parents of SHS students. Those eight students in turn honored SISD educators who played a major role in their education and character development.
“Nothing strengthens your belief in our public schools, our students and our staff quite like the Circle of Success,” said Rylee Arnot, chair of this year’s Circle of Success committee. “Community support builds a strong foundation for our schools, and it is a joy to see students who embody such outstanding traits recognized and celebrated.”
The eight students and their honored educators are:
- Drew Bossen, senior, and Piner coach Tyler Atnip
- Shepherd Martin, senior, and SHS teacher and coach Jessica Dunlap
- Carson Mathes, senior, and SHS teacher Bryan Batts
- Rocio Nield, senior, and SHS teacher Grace Dewald
- Natalia Restrepo, senior, and SHS teacher and coach Caitlin Curry
- Sydney Sexton, senior, and SHS teacher and coach Nicole Funderburg
- Will Shelby, senior, and SHS teacher and coach Steve Schutts
- Melanie Terrazas, senior, and SHS teacher Johnna Carruth
Those interested in sponsoring Circle of Success or donating to SEF should visit their website at www.shermanisd.net/sef or contact Bickerstaff at kbickerstaff@shermanisd.net or 903-891-6431.
Grant Surprise Photos Grant Surprise Video Recognition Photos