Educators around Sherman ISD were given a great surprise Wednesday, March 22 as Sherman Education Foundation’s (SEF) Circle of Success grant recipients were revealed.

Among the grant recipients were the art programs at every SISD elementary school. Grants will fund field trips to the Dallas Museum of Art and Meyerson Symphony Center for the fourth grade classes next school year.

“I’m so grateful to the Sherman Education Foundation for providing these opportunities to our students,” said Neblett Elementary music teacher Priscilla Burns. “It enriches the experiences students have here.”

SEF also granted funds to purchase 3D printers for campus technology specialists to use at every elementary school and middle school. These printers will encourage creativity using technology and teach the process of making 3D models.

“I’ve written grants before, but to write one that benefits all of the elementary and middle schools is incredible,” said Kimberly Nunn, Washington Elementary tech specialist who co-wrote the grant with Sherman Middle School’s Stuart Slakey. “I’m very excited, and it’s a privilege to be granted this.”

Crutchfield and Dillingham Elementary Schools had the one of the largest grants, which will fund a book vending machine at each campus, the first in the district and in the city of Sherman.  Students who exhibit outstanding good behavior, have perfect attendance, or show other positive traits will have the opportunity to pick a book to keep from the machine.

These grants are made possible by the sponsorships of SEF’s annual Circle of Success Recognition Event. To date, the event has raised more than $2.7 million to benefit Sherman students and teachers by investing in innovative and engaging projects. Last year, 44 projects were selected, totaling $65,000. A total and complete list of this year’s winners will be announced at the annual recognition event this coming Thursday.

“So many educators around the district submitted fantastic and innovative project and curriculum ideas this year,” said Kathy Bickerstaff, Executive Director of SEF. “Through the generous donations of our community partners, the Sherman Education Foundation was able to fund many of them to be implemented in the upcoming school year.”

For those interested in supporting Circle of Success, please contact Bickerstaff at kbickerstaff@shermanisd.net or 903-891-6431.

The SEF also has other opportunities to donate, such as their Major Saver cards and the SEF 5K and Fun Run during the Sherman Arts Fest. For more information, visit www.shermanisd.net/sef.