Regina Bruce and Dr. Carla Russo, founders of the Lone Star Monarchs (LSM), a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, worked together with the Dallas Police Association and DISD to provide 250 clear backpacks full of school supplies to students at the James S. Hogg Elementary School.
The team of Lone Star Monarchs’ supporters contributing to this project also included Anna Berman, Laurie Drazner, Kelly Harris, Jeanne Lewis, Bodii Lim, Kunthear Mam-Douglas, Diane Moten, Debbie Murray, and Elizabeth Smith.
“While the start of a new school year is an exciting time for most families, many parents struggle to provide basic school necessities for their children. That is why Lone Star Monarchs is proud to partner with these organizations to provide 250 clear backpacks filled with educator-requested school supplies, because we believe every child deserves to have the tools necessary for a fun and successful school year,” Regina said. “In addition to the backpacks, we presented them a check for $2,500 so educators can also purchase additional supplies as needed. Together, we support them and the important work they are doing to help these children learn and do well in school and in life.”
Jaime Castro, President, Dallas Police Association, says that he knows all too well how having the right tools to start the school year strong allows students to show up and engage in the classroom without unnecessary barriers to success. He further stated that he is "grateful to Lone Star Monarchs for partnering with the DPA to provide these 250 backpacks filled with school supplies as well as other supplies teachers at Hogg Elementary School need to further the educational needs of their underserved students in the classroom. Donating school supplies is one way to support our teachers while helping to give them the respect they deserve.”
“I am deeply grateful for the collaboration between Lone Star Monarchs and the Dallas Police Association to provide our students with the supplies they need to start the school year. Having their own supplies contributes to their overall excitement and motivation to learn. These essential donations help make sure our students walk into their classroom prepared and confident to thrive in their learning environment," said Toni Molina, Principal, Hogg New Tech Elementary School.
Lone Star Monarchs’ mission is to inspire and nurture the human spirit, as together, members build an effective network of individuals and organizations to support a broad spectrum of charitable organizations in Dallas and throughout Texas. LSM’s purpose is exclusively educational and charitable to connect people and enrich lives. www.lonestarmonarchs.org
Dallas Independent School District’s mission is to educate all students for success. www.dallasisd.org
Dallas Police Association: Founded in 1959, the DPA is the oldest and largest police employee organization in Dallas. The sole purpose of the DPA is to represent Dallas Police Officers in matters relating to employment, benefits and general well-being. Located in Dallas’ historic Cedars Neighborhood, the DPA facilities are member-owned and include administrative offices, conference/training facilities and a party space, with ample and secure on-site parking. Membership is open to all active and reserve Dallas Police Officers only. The DPA is the original and largest police employee group for Dallas Police Officers and has over 4,000 active and retired members. www.dallaspa.org
James S. Hogg New Tech Elementary School’s mission is to Motivate. Inspire. Prepare. We empower students to become co-designers of their education through project-based learning. https://www.dallasisd.org/hogg
Photos by Danny Campbell