Submitted by Emily Davis on behalf of the Dallas Education Foundation
Last year, Rachel Woods, the orchestra teacher at Irma Lerma Rangel Young Women’s Leadership School, took a bold step and applied for the inaugural Heart of Teaching grant cycle from the Dallas Education Foundation. Little did she anticipate the profound impact this grant would have on her students and herself.
Facilitated by the Greater Dallas Youth Orchestra, Woods’ grant, “Addressing Equity and Diversity in Texas Orchestras” increased access to high-quality, instrument-specific coaches who specialize in violin, viola, and cello. The coaches guided small groups of students on instrument-specific techniques and large groups on concert music in preparation for the University Interscholastic League (UIL) Orchestra Competition.
Through this grant, Irma Rangel’s Chamber Orchestra and Philharmonic Orchestra also received a significant increase in the number of coaching sessions, rising from two sessions in previous years to twenty-three sessions this year. Through these sessions, students enhance their knowledge of instrument-specific skills and sight reading, while boosting their confidence.
As a result, both the Chamber and Philharmonic Orchestra received the prestigious Sweepstakes Award, which is the highest possible award at U.I.L. Orchestra Competitions.
This grant not only benefited students, it also contributed to Mrs. Woods’ professional growth as she learned alongside them.
“I am grateful I had the opportunity to work with so many master teachers through this grant. My students learned a lot and I gained valuable knowledge that I will continue to use for years to come,” Woods said. “I am so proud of the hard work my students put into refining their technique this year. Their dedication undoubtedly paid off at UIL,” she said.
The 2024-2025 Heart of Teaching Grant Application: Advancing Equity through Innovation in Special Education is now open through April 12. Grants for this year’s cycle will go toward enabling and driving student success by funding projects that boost morale, motivation, belonging, and a sense of accomplishment for students with special needs and their peers.
For more information on how to apply, visit: https://dallasedfound.org/2024-25-grant-application/
