Round Rock ISD Partners in Education Foundation Celebrates 40 Years of Service

The Round Rock ISD Partners in Education (PIE) Foundation marked four decades of dedication to public education during its 24th Annual Shining Stars Gala on March 8, 2025. The event raised over $468,000, which will support innovative classroom projects and initiatives throughout the district.

The gala showcased several funded projects, such as a book vending machine and a coffee cart program designed to help elementary students with special needs develop social skills. Celia Johnson, a special education teacher at Elsa England Elementary School, expressed her gratitude for the support, saying, “It’s amazing to do this with my kids. [The coffee cart] provides social interaction and gives general education peers the chance to engage with our students and form friendships.”

During the 2024-25 school year, the PIE Foundation distributed more than $165,000 in grant funding, benefitting 40 campuses and 25 department initiatives. The event also celebrated Round Rock ISD’s 2024 Teachers of the Year, Kimberly Correa, a fourth-grade teacher at Caraway Elementary, and Chris Mihealsick, the 2025 Texas Secondary Teacher of the Year and a science teacher at Westwood High School.

Marianne Reap, the PIE Foundation’s executive director, emphasized the importance of community involvement, stating, “The unwavering support of community leaders, business partners, and PTAs enhances education from Pre-K through 12th grade and addresses basic needs for students and staff.”

With more than 525 attendees, the gala included dinner, auctions, and activities such as a Paddle Raise benefiting the Education Heroes Giving Circle. Superintendent Hafedh Azaiez expressed gratitude for the community’s contributions, highlighting their impact on students and educators.

Founded by parents, businesses, and civic leaders, the nonprofit PIE Foundation continues to play a vital role in enhancing education within Round Rock ISD. For more information, visit rrisdeducationfoundation.org.