Atmos Energy Invests $25,000 to Empower First-Year Teachers and Enhance Early Childhood Education Programs at A&M-Commerce

The Dream Classroom Fund helps new teachers furnish their classrooms to promote literacy and learning.

Atmos Energy made a gift of $25,000 in August 2023 to enhance early childhood education at Texas A&M University-Commerce. This contribution will support the Atmos Energy Dream Classroom Fund, designed to help first-year teachers furnish their classrooms in a way that promotes literacy and learning.

Sherri Harwell, director of Educator Certification and Academic Services at A&M-Commerce, said teachers typically spend between $500 and $750 of their own money each year on supplies. Harwell said that is a significant expense for first-year teachers, especially for those trying to create a classroom library from scratch.

“Atmos has provided an exciting opportunity for our new teachers to receive substantial help in making the dream of an enriching classroom library a reality,” Harwell said. “Their focus on students in early grades demonstrates their commitment to early literacy, and we are excited to partner on that mission.”

2024 Award Recipients

This past spring, three new teachers were selected as inaugural recipients of the Atmos Energy Dream Classroom Award:

  • Megan Vinson graduated from A&M-Commerce in May 2024 and is a first-year kindergarten teacher at Terrell ISD.
  • Becky Moore graduated from A&M-Commerce in May 2024 and is a first-year pre-k teacher at Waxahachie ISD.
  • Elizabeth Ibarra graduated from A&M-Commerce in May 2024 and is a first-year kindergarten teacher at Greenville ISD.

To be eligible for the award, the applicants had to be enrolled in an Early Childhood Education program at A&M-Commerce. Preference was given to graduating seniors hired to teach pre-k through third grade. The applicants also submitted proposals describing their “dream classrooms” and how the funds would be used to promote literacy and learning in their classrooms.

Making a Difference

Vinson said the Atmos award helped her create an environment in her new classroom that inspires learning.

“I was able to create a warm and safe learning environment with the Atmos Dream Classroom Award,” Vinson said. “My kindergarten students come in every day to a classroom where they are eager to learn and feel safe and confident. I am forever grateful to Atmos Energy for this gift and for helping me create this amazing environment for my amazing students.”

The Atmos Energy Dream Classroom Award is awarded annually to early career educators who are passionate about promoting literacy and learning within their new classrooms. Applications reopen for next year's recipients in Spring 2025.

Atmos has been a continued partner with Texas A&M University-Commerce over the years, investing in the future of education.

“Atmos Energy's innovative philanthropy has significantly impacted our university, and the Dream Classroom Fund is another example of their commitment to education,” said Devin Girod, vice president of Philanthropy and Engagement. “This game-changing initiative helps first-year teachers create inspiring, student-centered classrooms, shaping the future of education and empowering the next generation. We are grateful for Atmos Energy's continued generosity and partnership!”

Featured Photo: Adobe Stock