Education Foundation increases commitment to innovation and mental wellness at DSISD

The Dripping Springs Education foundation presented a check for $417, 541.99 to Dripping Springs ISD. The foundation raises money each year to fund innovation at the local district. Tedi Wells, president-elect of the foundation, said one of the key initiatives is to fund mental health services to district students and staff. Because of the funding the foundation provides, the district can staff three fulltime licensed mental health professionals across all campuses to help stu- dents in need of counseling or intervention. In 2023, the program added funding for a full-time licensed mental health counselor for all DSISD staff. “It’s important to take care of those who care for our children,” Wells added.

The program, which started in 2019, is one of the first of its kind in Texas, making the Dripping Spring ISD an innovative leader for promoting mental wellness support for students and staff.

In addition, the funding also funds an innovative teacher grant program to give teachers and staff grants to for an innovative teaching idea, need, or learning experience that provides better opportunities for more students and staff.

In 2023-2024, DSEF awarded over $65,000 in grant money to campuses across the district! In addition, students can also find funding for their ideas with a student leadership grant. Last school year, more than $17,000 was granted to students to make their ideas a reality. For the 2024-25 school year, the application period for both grants opens August 1. The deadline for innovative teaching grants is October 13. For student leadership grants, the application deadline is December 1.

Founded in 1992 by volunteers, the Dripping Springs Education Foundation raises private-sector funds to support academic goals and achievement at every school in the Dripping Springs ISD. The foundation accepts donations from the community and raises funds through annual events including a gala, golf tournament and clay shoot.

For more information about the foundation, visit dseducationfoundation. org.