The Hill Country Education Foundation raised $21,800 during the Fund-A-Need portion of the 4th Annual Giddy Up Gala in February. The entire gala raised a total of $113,875.

“This was by far HCEF’s most successful Fund-A-Need,” said Kai Lamb, HCEF president. “The reason is that donors understand the multiplier effect these funds have on the school, benefiting all current and future Vandegrift students.”

HCEF presented the $21,800 check to Vandegrift High School’s principal Charlie Little to be used for three programs: Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test or PSAT, academic University Interscholastic League competitions, and teacher professional development.

The Hill Country Education Foundation’s Gala event chair Myra Roberts (far left) and board member Mary Scherer presented a $21,800 check to Vandegrift High School principal Charlie Little.

PSAT

A portion of the $21k funds will continue to provide the high school PSAT team with the financial resources to increase the number of commended and recognized National Merit Scholarship Program semi-finalists.

In 2013, HCEF funded a $5,000 Impact Grant to expand PSAT programming. As a result of this grant combined with the work of VHS educators and students, the number of top scores increased by more than 60 percent. This also increased college recruiters’ awareness of VHS and the total dollar amount of scholarships students receive.

UIL

In addition, funds will foster student participation in academic UIL competitions. Similar to the financial support that VHS athletics and band receives from their respective boosters, HCEF, as the academic booster club, will support students who participate in these academic competitions.

These types of competitions enhance classroom learning, improve standardized test scores, prepare students for college and work, develop self-esteem and self-confidence, challenge under-achieving students, and more.

Teacher development

Finally, funds will also supply VHS school administrators with the financial resources to expand teacher professional development. Great teachers help create great students. Research shows that an inspiring and informed teacher is the most important school related factor influencing student achievement.

Professional development will support ongoing opportunities for local educators to do such things as learn about new research, emerging technology, proven tools for the classroom and new curriculum resources.