The Dallas Education Foundation recently celebrated the 2026–2027 Heart of Teaching Grant recipients during a special ceremony honoring the creativity, passion, and commitment of Dallas ISD educators.
Thirty innovative classroom grants were awarded to educators representing every Dallas ISD trustee district. The funded projects will bring new learning opportunities directly to students through robotics, filmmaking, music, literacy, leadership, wellness, gardening, entrepreneurship and more.
This year’s Heart of Teaching program reached a historic milestone, receiving a record number of applications from educators across the district. Each selected project reflects an educator’s thoughtful response to the unique interests and needs of their students and school community.
During the ceremony, recipients were recognized for developing ideas that will enrich classroom learning, encourage student engagement, and create meaningful opportunities for students to discover new talents and possibilities.
“Dallas ISD educators continue to demonstrate extraordinary creativity, passion, and commitment to student success,” said Mita Havlick, Executive Director of the Dallas Education Foundation. “This year’s record number of applications reflects the incredible innovation happening across our district every day. We are honored to support these educators as they bring transformative ideas directly into their classrooms and communities.”
The 2026–2027 grant-funded projects include a student-led news station, robotics and modern band programs, digital storytelling and podcast clubs, performing arts and filmmaking opportunities, sustainable gardens, student enterprises, leadership initiatives and other creative experiences designed to help students thrive.
Through the Heart of Teaching Grants, the Dallas Education Foundation invests directly in educators and empowers them to transform innovative ideas into experiences that accelerate student success.
Congratulations to all 30 Heart of Teaching Grant recipients. We look forward to seeing the lasting impact these projects will make in classrooms and school communities throughout Dallas ISD.
View the complete list of recipients and their projects:
https://dallasedfound.org/heart-of-teaching-grant-recipients-2026-2027/
About the Dallas Education Foundation
The Dallas Education Foundation (DEF) is a registered 501(c)(3) organization and serves as the direct and designated philanthropic partner of Dallas ISD. With a mission to inspire community investment to accelerate student success, DEF focuses on economic mobility by supporting early learning, advancing literacy, driving postsecondary success, and championing educators. Learn more at dallasedfound.org and follow @dallasedfound on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, X, Threads, and YouTube.
About Dallas Independent School District
The Dallas Independent School District is continually preparing its students for college or a career. The district offers a competitive mix of innovative programs, choice programs, and instructional initiatives that support the increased academic achievement and the social and emotional development of its students. To learn more, visit www.dallasisd.org.
