Katherine Johnson Technology Magnet Academy Hosts Award Ceremony for Texas Trust Credit Union’s Financial Literacy Grant Recipients
On May 1, 2025,, Katherine Johnson Technology Magnet Academy (KJTM) in DeSoto Independent School District celebrated the success of a unique initiative designed to boost both mathematical performance and financial literacy. Texas Trust Credit Union, through their Texas Trust Gives Foundation, awarded DeSoto ISD a grant aimed at enhancing students' understanding of financial literacy through a dynamic rewards program.
The program recognized 36 students and 5 teachers for their outstanding efforts in math performance, promoting academic excellence through a two-pronged incentive approach. The students were selected based on perfect attendance and exceptional performance on math assessments, while teachers were recognized for their contributions to student success. The ceremony featured the presentation of high-quality rewards including drones, STEM kits, educational games, and more—gifts that reinforce the connection between academic achievement and tangible rewards, mirroring the fundamental principles of financial literacy.
Interim Principal Yolanda Hanspard expressed her gratitude for the initiative, saying, "We are thrilled to celebrate the hard work and dedication of our students and teachers. This partnership with Texas Trust Credit Union is a great example of how community support can enhance our students' learning experiences. It’s inspiring to see our students not only excel in math but also connect their academic success to real-world rewards that tie back to financial literacy."
Tanya Dillard, Instructional Design staff for DeSoto ISD, also shared her excitement about the program’s impact, stating, "This initiative empowers our students to understand the value of their efforts. By linking academic achievement with rewards, we're able to provide a powerful real-world lesson in financial literacy that will stay with them long after they leave the classroom. This program exemplifies the importance of motivating both students and teachers to strive for excellence."
Texas Trust Gives Foundation Executive Director, Washima Huq, was in attendance to present the awards and celebrate the students and teachers who contributed to the program’s success. “We’re excited to see the positive impact of this partnership and how it’s inspiring both students and teachers to embrace learning, set goals, and achieve great results,” Huq said. “This program brings financial literacy to life by showing students the tangible benefits of hard work.”
The event also showcased the powerful role of teachers in student achievement, with select educators receiving gifts like small kitchen appliances and classroom enhancement tools to further support their work. By acknowledging both the students' and teachers' efforts, the program emphasizes the importance of teamwork in education.
“This initiative isn’t just about math assessments, it's about helping our students understand the value of their efforts and how they can apply these lessons in real life. Our students now have a firsthand experience of how hard work can yield rewards, and that’s a lesson we hope will stay with them,” said Hanspard.
The partnership between Texas Trust Credit Union and DeSoto ISD highlights the crucial link between education, community support, and financial literacy. This event is a testament to how collaboration can create opportunities for students and educators alike to thrive.