How We Help Teachers & Staff.

We support Richardson ISD educators by funding bold ideas, professional growth, and outstanding achievement. Our grants and awards help bring learning to life and celebrate those who make a lasting impact.

Elevate Grants

Elevate Grants support RISD staff in pursuing meaningful professional growth. Individuals can apply for up to $1,000 per cycle to attend conferences, complete certifications, or take courses toward a degree. Grants are awarded three times a year and are funded by donors who believe in supporting RISD employees and strengthening the work they do for students.

Empower Grants

Empower Grants fuel bold, imaginative ideas that spark curiosity and drive student growth across Richardson ISD. By removing financial barriers, it empowers educators to bring learning to life in creative, meaningful ways. This program transforms classrooms into places where innovation thrives and students are inspired to achieve their full potential.

RISD Staff Awards

The Richardson ISD Foundation awards monetary prizes to recognize exceptional RISD staff, teachers, and administrators. These individuals help advance the district’s mission through their commitment to student success, innovation, and the growth of others. Below are the awards we help fund and present in collaboration with Richardson ISD and our generous community partners:

  • Assistant Principal of the Year (Elementary and Secondary)

  • Champion Awards (RISD Support Staff)

  • Counselors of the Year (Elementary and Secondary)

  • 1finity Trailblazer Award

  • Nurse of the Year

  • Patti Kieker Servant Leader Award

  • Principal of the Year (Elementary and Secondary)

  • Red Apple New Teacher Award (Elementary and Secondary)

  • STARS Teaching Award

  • Texas Instruments Foundation Innovations in STEM Teaching Award