Texas Border Business
PHARR, Texas – The PSJA Education Foundation surprised dozens of Pharr-San Juan-Alamo ISD educators during its annual Mini Grant Prize Patrol, awarding $38,675 in Teacher Mini-Grants to support innovative classroom projects across the district. Held December 15–16, 2025, the initiative recognized 40 PSJA educators for ideas designed to enhance student learning and expand opportunities for all.
Established in 2013, the PSJA Education Foundation is an independent nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting PSJA ISD students and staff. Each year, the Foundation provides competitive grants to teachers and scholarships to students, helping fund classroom initiatives and assist graduating seniors with college expenses.
Of 194 applications received, a total of 40 grants, ranging from $500 to $1,000 were awarded to PSJA ISD teachers whose projects demonstrated creativity and impact in the classroom.
The grants are made possible through generous sponsorships and donations, including payroll deductions, from community members, local businesses, and PSJA ISD staff.
PSJA Education Foundation President Marlen Lopez said her desire to give back to PSJA students and teachers is rooted in the support she received during her own high school years.
“What drives me to give back is the belief in investing in the future of our children at PSJA,” Lopez said. “When I was in high school, I experienced firsthand how community members stepped up to support my education. Now, it’s my turn to give back. I’m passionate about raising funds and supporting PSJA because it represents an investment in our students and the generations to come.”
Among this year’s recipients was Matthew Garcia, a teacher at PSJA Pathways Toward Independence, who received a $1,000 mini grant to enhance graphic design instruction in his classroom.
“I was surprised and truly humbled to receive the $1,000 Teacher Mini Grant,” the teacher said. “These funds will allow us to upgrade our laser machine, giving students hands-on experience with advanced manufacturing tools and design while inspiring creativity, entrepreneurship, and real-world skills. I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to do more for our students and our community.”
In addition to teacher grants, the PSJA Education Foundation’s 2025-2026 Scholarship Application is now open. All current PSJA ISD seniors can apply at https://www.psjaedfoundation.org/scholarships.
To learn more about the PSJA Education Foundation, please visit www.psjaisd.us/foundation.
