Since 2003, the Rockwall ISD Education Foundation has championed excellence in education. Led by Executive Director Ashlei Neill, the foundation bridges district needs and community generosity to fund innovative programs, empower teachers, and support student success.
Building Awareness, Fulfilling Needs
Initially chartered as part of the school district, the Rockwall ISD Education Foundation became an independent nonprofit in 2013, when Neill stepped into leadership. Since then, she has guided the organization through intentional growth, building a strong volunteer board made up of business leaders, former educators, and passionate community advocates.
“We are committed to funding what would otherwise not be possible,” says Neill. That includes classroom innovation, first-year teacher support, and nontraditional scholarships for vocational pathways. “With rising challenges across public education, we’ve shifted from funding ‘extras’ to helping meet essentials. What used to be icing on the cake is now the cake itself.”
One of the foundation’s early initiatives remains one of its most successful—an employee giving campaign called "I Am the Foundation," where district staff who contribute get to wear branded shirts and jeans biweekly to raise visibility and engagement. Community participation has grown steadily alongside it.
Fundraisers like the annual spring bowling tournament and fall I-30 Classic Golf Scramble fuel the foundation’s efforts, while a new alumni initiative—the Trailblazer Benefit & Bonfire—debuts this October to reconnect Rockwall graduates with their home district.
Neill emphasizes the importance of awareness. “There are many nonprofits doing good work. What sets us apart is that we touch every street, every family, every child in Rockwall.” Quality public education benefits the entire community, not just students and their families.
A Story of Impact and Opportunity
The foundation’s flagship program is its annual Innovative Teaching Grants. Teachers submit applications each fall for creative projects that go beyond standard curriculum—anything from VR biology labs to pen pal weather exchanges with students in Spain. Educators can receive up to $1,000 individually or $5,000 in collaborative teams.
Grants are reviewed by a mixed committee of board members and district leaders in curriculum, tech, and special programs, ensuring alignment with instructional goals. “The innovative element is key,” Neill notes. “We’re not just funding materials—we’re supporting imagination in the classroom.”
Other key initiatives include new teacher grants to outfit classrooms for first-time educators—who often begin work weeks before receiving their first paycheck. Professional development stipends enable teachers to access continuing education opportunities that help them develop skills, learn new technology, and build their networks.
In recent years, the foundation has added nontraditional scholarships for graduating seniors entering trade, culinary, or vocational schools. “There are already many scholarships for four-year colleges,” Neill explains. “We saw a gap in support for students pursuing different paths—and we stepped in.”
Beyond programs and fundraising, it’s the personal connections that matter most. Neill recalls a recent request from the adult special education program at Heath High School—urgently needed equipment that wasn’t in any budget. “I made a few phone calls, and within 35 minutes, it was funded. That’s what we’re here for.”
Neill, who moved to Rockwall 18 years ago and brings a background in advertising to her role, finds joy in the unexpected moments—like showing up with donors and drumlines to surprise teachers with grants. “It’s electric. You see the joy. You feel the gratitude.”
To learn more or become a supporter, visit the Rockwall ISD Foundation page via the district website, or follow them on social media to see grants in action.
“We’re delivering dreams. And when teachers see the support, it inspires everyone in the building.”