HOUSTON, TX – February 25, 2026 – The Aldine Education Foundation (AEF) surprised four educators on February 20th with $1,000 Innovative Teaching Grants during its annual Prize Posse celebration, recognizing outstanding classroom innovation across Aldine ISD.

The Innovative Teaching Grant program invests directly in creative instructional strategies that enhance engagement and academic achievement across the district.

Grant recipients include:

Elisabet De Miguel – Griggs Elementary (Sponsored by Whataburger)
“TEK by TEK, Preparing Students for Success in the Real World” Focused on strengthening data analysis and financial literacy skills for bilingual learners.

Elizabeth Gilbert – Eisenhower 9th Grade School
“Removing Barriers to Books, A Book Festival Grant for Eisenhower 9 and Big Ike Students. Providing 100 students the opportunity to attend Teen Book Con and engage with authors and literary workshops.

Apsara Ajithan – Aldine High School (Sponsored by Whataburger)
“Eyes in the Sky: Drone-Based Air-Quality Monitoring at Aldine High School” A hands-on STEM initiative applying physics, robotics, and engineering to real-world environmental challenges.

Eun Sung Kim – Carter Academy
“Strings in Motion: An Immersive Exploration of the Science of Sound” Integrating music, visual arts, and science to explore sound, vibration, and performance.

“Our educators continue to redefine what’s possible for students,” said Jermani Atkinson, director of the Aldine Education Foundation. “These grants empower teachers to create meaningful, real-world learning experiences that elevate student success.

This year’s Prize Posse representatives included AEF Board Members President Jana Anders-Gonzales, Judy Hoya, Sidney Brewer, and Pastor David Smith, as well as AEF Director, Jermani Atkinson.

A full gallery of event photos is available here: 25-26 Innovative Teaching Grant Prize Posse