Burnet education foundation to host ‘Spark Tank’ next week
The BCISD Education Foundation was founded in 2024, and has since given out several grants to students and teachers across the district. BCISD Education Foundation photo
The Burnet Consolidated Independent School District Education Foundation is holding its second annual Spark Tank next week, with teachers looking for a golden handshake from “investors” for their innovative classroom ideas.
The event begins at 5 p.m. Monday, Nov. 2, at the Burnet High School Auditorium, 1000 The Green Mile.
Spark Tank is a funding event hosted by the education foundation that gives teachers a chance to present classroom-enhancing ideas to a panel of judges in the style of popular television show “Shark Tank.”
According to BCISD Education Foundation Vice President of Marketing Teryl McFerrin, teachers could receive up to $10,000 funding, which can be used for things like student equipment and educational materials.
“(Spark Tank) helps teachers tell the story of what they are challenged with in the classroom every day,” she said. “The event is an opportunity to highlight the incredibly innovative and creative work the teachers are doing every day to help motivate, educate, and care for kids in Burnet CISD.”
Last year, teachers presented requests for podcasting equipment, standing gardens, medical-grade tablets and technologies, and virtual reality headsets that let students experience an archaeological dig site firsthand.
“These projects were all funded by the Burnet CISD Education Foundation,” McFerrin told DailyTrib. “Projects that support innovation, student curiosity, and the love of learning. Because of the education foundation and our generous donors, the Burnet High School students learning how to use a medical tablet could be a Burnet nurse taking care of you one day.”
At this year’s Spark Tank, students will join teachers in presenting ideas to the “sharks,” which will include real life Shark Tank winner and Burnet native Lerin Lockwood. The event will also have performances by the choir, band, and cheer team.