The Round Rock ISD Partners in Education Foundation celebrated its 25th Annual Shining Stars Gala on March 6, raising more than $375,000 to support innovative classroom and program projects throughout the district.
The event highlighted a few of those projects, including in-school enrichment opportunities for Title 1 students, a slam poetry writing workshop, and a hands-on science activity.
“Whenever we do science now, instead of just reading about experiments, we’re going to get the materials to do the experiments,” Lindsay Brazell, Great Oaks Elementary School teacher, said about her grant for Hands on Science.
During the 2025-26 school year, the foundation has distributed more than $173,000 in grant funding throughout the district, impacting 30 campuses and 15 department projects and initiatives.
The evening also recognized Round Rock ISD’s 2025 Teachers of the Year: Madison Buerster at Voigt Elementary School, and Victoria Sanders, the 2026 Region 13 Teacher of the Year and English teacher at Round Rock High School.
"The Shining Stars Gala was a spectacular celebration of our community's commitment to public education," said PIE Foundation Executive Director, Stacie Bryan. "Watching students, educators, administrators, and community partners come together in one room was inspiring."
Bryan said her favorite moment was the Second Line that launched the live program.
"It was led by Dragon Band Senior Head Drum Major Maddie Morrison and joined by Superintendent Dr. Hafedh Azaiez, district leaders, and our PIE Foundation board and staff," she said. "It was the perfect way to capture the spirit of the evening!"
More than 480 guests attended the gala, which featured dinner, auctions, games, and a Paddle Raise benefiting the Education Heroes Giving Circle. The Shining Stars Gala is the Foundation’s largest fundraiser, ensuring educational support for Round Rock ISD schools.
Superintendent Hafedh Azaiez said he was thankful for the continued support from the community.
“Events like the Shining Stars Gala reflect the incredible commitment our community has to public education,” Azaiez said. “Because of that support, our teachers can continue to bring innovative ideas into the classroom and expand opportunities for our students across the district.”
Parents, businesses and civic leaders established the nonprofit PIE Foundation to enhance education in Round Rock ISD. More information is available at Partners in Education Foundation, Round Rock ISD.