Denton ISD Partners with UNT Athletics for $5,000 Gift to Vocational Independence, Social and Transitional Advancement (VISTA) Program

Each year, the University of North Texas (UNT) Athletics Department celebrates and rewards Denton ISD teachers for their hard work, dedication and commitment to impacting young lives in the Denton community through the Extra Yard for Teachers program.

On Tuesday morning, that tradition continued when Denton ISD’s Vocational Independence, Social and Transitional Advancement (VISTA) program was surprised with a $5,000 donation. VISTA serves special education students ages 18-21 and teaches students life and career skills to help them transition to the workforce.

“This generous donation by UNT and the Extra Yard for Teachers program will help VISTA achieve its goal and mission, which is ensuring vocational independence and social and transitional advancement for every student,” said Dr. Lacey Rainey, Assistant Superintendent of School Leadership & Academic Programs. “We are so proud of our VISTA students and staff for their incredible work, and we look forward to celebrating the successes of our students as they reach their individual goals.”

The $5,000 donation will go towards life skills curriculum and equipment to support preparing students for the workforce, in addition to consumable items used for teaching independent living skills like cooking, laundry, cleaning and more.

The College Football Playoff (CFP) Foundation is the community engagement arm of the College Football Playoff and works in partnership with institutions of higher education, sports organizations, corporations and nonprofits to support educators and improve U.S. student outcomes.

Extra Yard for Teachers is the CFP Foundation's primary initiative, which seeks to elevate the teaching profession by inspiring and empowering teachers. The Go Teach Project and Training Camp initiatives ensure school district’s are retaining a qualified and diverse K-12 workforce and attracting quality educators that students need in the future.

“We are extremely thankful for Extra Yard for Teachers and the CFP Foundation for being able to have this opportunity to donate,” said Brandon Fisher, UNT Assistant Director of Student Athlete Development  “Making an impact in your local community is always special, especially when it’s in your own backyard. This is a win-win all across the board to support VISTA students and help give them resources to succeed.”