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Freedom Elementary

LEARNING IS AN ADVENTURE AT FREEDOM ELEMENTARY!

A teacher’s mind is constantly spinning and brainstorming on how they can take a lesson or proj-
ect to the next level. These phenomenal ideas not only make us excited, but also spark the creativi-
ty and interest of our students. Unfortunately, some innovative and creative projects take a lot of
supplies and materials, which sometimes leaves our teachers feeling like the idea is out of reach.
Well, not anymore! With the help of some outside organizations such as Donors Choose, some of
our teachers have turned their dream projects into a reality. Through Donors Choose Freedom
Elementary has had 16 projects funded, valuing at a total of $6,628. Mrs. Nellie Olvera,1st grade
teacher, has received funds not only for her homeroom students, but also for the Freedom Crafting
Club. Mrs. Helen Doria, dyslexia teacher, was able to get funds to buy copies of books for each of
her students in the Magical Book Club. Mr. Mario Rodriguez, 5th grade Science teacher, received
funding to allow him to purchase Scholastic Magazines, both hard copies and virtual copies, for
all 5th grade students. Coach Maria Mendez was able to gather funds to get a Ping-Pong table for
the gym. Ms. Jennifer Sinder, our amazing art teacher, has had numerous projects funded, such as her super cool mobile art cart with
tons of supplies that students can use quickly and safely with minimal cleanup. We are so grateful for these contributions and could
not have done it without the support of these organizations.

Gallardo Elementary

GALLARDO SUPPORTS THE IMAGINE A DAY WITHOUT WATER CAMPAIGN

Imagine a Day Without Water (IDWW) is a national campaign to raise awareness of the value of water in our
lives. A large part of their campaign is to hold an annual art contest for 5th grade students, which combines 5th
grade lessons on environmental science and the water cycle with artistic projects that inevitably spark discus-
sions and creativity. This campaign was organized by WEAT and TAWWA the leading water/wastewater pro-
fessional organizations in Texas. Students from a variety of school districts participate in this contest and one of
Gallardo’s very own was one of the top chosen 13 winners for the contest.

Dominic Benavides from Gallardo was selected to have his artwork featured in the Imagine A Day Without Water
calendar for the 2021 year. Dominic is an art enthusiast and his passion for art is evident in the work he creates. In addition to this
honor, Dominic will receive art supplies from WEAT and TAWWA so he can continue to activate his creativity.

DREAMS ARE BEING BORN AT GALLARDO

Gallardo Elementary is inspiring students to dream big. We understand students are only
as strong as the expectations that are held for them. To support college, career, and military
readiness, Gallardo Elementary is ensuring that students understand the value of education
and how it supports their future careers. At Gallardo all staff are supporting this initiative
by displaying their college, vocational, and military diplomas or certificates. In addition,
Gallardo is supporting this initiative by incorporating college, career, and military weeks
into each semester. Ms. Annette Scharf, our school counselor creates videos based around
virtues and colleges. Each month a college, vocational, and/or military branch is highlight-
ed and featured in Ms. Scharf’s videos.

Ms. Annette Scharf insipiring students.

8 www.southsideisd.org