On the first day of the 2025–2026 school year, Sioux Falls Public Schools Education Foundation staff surprised educators across the district with exciting news: the first recipients of the Replenish the Room Grants had been selected. More than 400 experienced teachers applied for the grant, which provides $250 stipends to help educators refresh and update their classroom supplies.
The grant program, introduced in 2024, was designed to acknowledge the ongoing personal investment many seasoned educators make in their classrooms. From books and flexible seating to headphones, dry-erase boards, board games, geography maps, extra school supplies, and even 3D printer filament, educators can use the funds to enhance learning environments and better meet student needs.
“We know many teachers spend hundreds of dollars out of pocket preparing their classrooms each year,” said Allison Struck, executive director of the Education Foundation. “This is one way we can give back and support our more experienced staff who continue to show unwavering dedication to their students.”
Since 2011, the Education Foundation has provided First Time Teacher Grants, awarding $250 to every first-time, first-year teacher in the district. That program has helped more than 1,000 new educators build their classrooms. (https://www.argusleader.com/story/news/education/2025/08/12/first-time-first-year-teachers-get-250-grants-for-classroom-supplies/85615408007/). But until last year, veteran teachers had few opportunities for similar support.
Recognizing this gap, the Education Foundation Board of Directors took action in 2024, approving the creation of the Replenish the Room Grant. The idea originated directly from teachers during a series of focus groups and listening sessions, where educators consistently voiced the need for financial help in updating worn-out or outdated classroom resources.
This year, 150 district staff members were selected as grant recipients, bringing the Foundation’s total investment to $37,500. Together, those 150 educators bring a collective 2,107.5 years of experience to the district. On average, each grant winner has been in the profession for 14 years.
“These grants not only help educators buy the tools they need,” Struck added, “but they also serve as a reminder that their experience and contributions are valued by our community.”