The Texas Retired Teachers Foundation (TRTF) Classroom Assistance Grant program continues to make a meaningful impact in Texas schools by supporting innovative educators like Raul Vallejo and Jane Wong at Hart Elementary in Austin ISD.
Hart Elementary is a Title I campus serving approximately 530 students from early childhood through fifth grade. With 100% of students qualifying for free or reduced-price meals and many being first-generation students in the United States, the school is committed to providing enriching educational opportunities that help every child succeed.
Bringing STEM Learning to Life
Fourth and fifth-grade teacher Raul Vallejo used his TRTF Classroom Assistance Grant to purchase Solar Weather Nodes, Student Base Stations, and Development Kits. These resources will allow students to design and monitor solar-powered weather stations while collecting and analyzing real-world environmental data.
Through this hands-on experience, students will develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and scientific inquiry skills while exploring renewable energy and weather science.
Creating a Space for Wellness and Growth
Hart Elementary School Counselor Jane Wong used her grant to establish a Wellness Room equipped with yoga mats and blocks, handheld chime bells, and breathing expandable balls.
“While our social and emotional curriculum does offer ideas and strategies for the children, there is something very powerful about having space and equipment in order to go beyond what is possible while seated on the carpet or in chairs,” said Wong. “Movement activities based on mindfulness can be one tool for our young students to navigate the challenges that arise in their daily lives.”
The Wellness Room will provide students with a dedicated space to practice mindfulness, self-regulation, and stress-management techniques, helping them build emotional resilience and confidence.
Through grants like these, TRTF continues to invest in creative classroom experiences and student well-being, ensuring Texas educators have the resources needed to inspire, engage, and support their students every day. Applications for TRTF’s Grant program for 2027-2028 will be available online at www.trtf.org beginning August 14, 2026.
