United Way of Acadiana announced the recipients of their 2025-2026 Education Innovation grants, which fund creative, evidence-based projects designed to boost student success and strengthen educational outcomes across Acadiana.
This year, United Way of Acadiana awarded 17 grants totaling nearly $55,000 to local schools and educators and, for the first time, expanded the grant opportunity beyond Lafayette Parish to Acadia, Iberia, St. Martin, and Vermilion parishes.
“Education is at the heart of United Way’s mission to make sure every child in Acadiana has the opportunity to thrive,” said Heather Blanchard, President and CEO of United Way of Acadiana. “The Education Innovation Grants allow us to invest in forward-thinking educators and schools who are finding new ways to inspire learning and remove barriers for students across Acadiana.”
The Education Innovation Grants support projects that demonstrate measurable impact, creativity, and collaboration within schools and communities. Applications are assessed for their potential to drive long-term educational improvement. Educators throughout the five parishes served are encouraged to sign up for notification to apply for the next grant cycle at Education Innovation Grant Interest Form.
United Way of Acadiana remains committed to improving youth opportunity, community resiliency, financial security, and a healthy community. Through investments like the Education Innovation Grants, United Way of Acadiana continues to unite people and resources to create lasting change in Acadiana. Learn more about this grant program at Education Grants | United Way of Acadiana.
This year’s recipients are:
- Acadiana Renaissance Charter Academy High School, Amanda Rideaux: Bringing Leadership to ARCA
- Alice Boucher Elementary, Precious Boudreaux: Books for Bobcats – Book Vending Machine
- Carencro Catholic School, Carmen Bourque: CCS Robotics Team – Robot Upgrades
- Dr. Raphael A. Baranco Elementary School, Taylor Wallace & Morgan Mercado: Hands On Social Emotional Learning for Students
- Edgar Martin Middle School, Amy Moss: Reading Rams – A School-Wide Approach to Improving Literacy at Edgar Martin
- Edgar Martin Middle School, Brittany Pecor: Ram Pulse – Igniting Student Voice & Elevating Teacher Practice
- James A. Herod Elementary School, Kristin Moore: Wildcat Outdoor Learning Lab & Zen Garden
- Lafayette High School, Diane Soucy: Francofun
- LPSS Talented Program, Timothy Gaffga: Piano Accompaniment – Pedestal of the Recital
- LPSS Talented Program, Timothy Gaffga: Programs & Fliers for Talented Festival
- Milton Middle School, Marcus Harrison: Specialized Seating
- Myrtle Place, J. Joy Stalnaker: Building Blocks of Success
- St. Martinville Junior High, Rachel Austin: Eagle Incentives
- St. Martinville Junior High, Rachel Austin: Santa’s Workshop
- W.D. and Mary Baker Smith Career Center, Randy Demette: 1963 Falcon Project – Engine & Transmission
- W.D. and Mary Baker Smith Career Center, Ann DuBois: HiSET Drivers Education Initiative
- Westgate High School, Jasmin Smith: StoryBuilders: Empowering Struggling Readers Through Project-Based Literature Learning
