In a display of generosity and commitment to education, former student Jack Benson has donated $100,000 to Douglas Elementary School. The funds will transform the school's outdoor spaces into a vibrant, hands-on learning hub, including new playground equipment and a covered outdoor learning area to enrich the students' educational experience.
Jack Benson, once the student council president at Douglas, is passionate about giving back to the school, which played a significant role in his early education.
“I went to Douglas. It was a big part of my childhood, and I knew one day I would give back to the school, and now seemed like the right time,” Benson said.
One of the highlights of the outdoor learning area will be the incorporation of water access, allowing students to explore scientific concepts related to water, ecosystems, and environmental science. Microscopes and other scientific tools will also be made available, enabling students to conduct experiments and explore the wonders of the natural world firsthand.
“The vision for the outdoor learning area is to have an outdoor extension of the classroom, something I think children at any elementary grade level will benefit from,” Benson said.
Mr. Benson's generous contribution reflects a commitment to fostering a well-rounded education that goes beyond textbooks and traditional classroom settings. By transforming the outdoor space into an extension of the classroom, Douglas Elementary School aims to create an environment that sparks curiosity, encourages exploration, and instills a lifelong love for learning.
“I didn’t do this for publicity. I did it because I love my school, and I hope this encourages others to consider giving back to Tyler ISD and the school system that made them who they are today.”
