Pfluger Elementary educators Nicki Larson (left) and Brooke Borreson got quite the surprise Monday when they were presented a $27,000 check for winning first place in Voya Financial’s Unsung Heroes program. Through Unsung Heroes, Voya Financial awards educators across the country with grants for innovative teaching ideas. Borreson and Larson submitted their idea “Switch it!,” which focuses on helping students with special needs and disabilities interact with switch-adapted toys, according to a release.
Borreson and Larson were among 100 winners across the country to receive a $2,000 grant from Voya. In addition, the duo also received $25,000 for winning the grand prize. According to a release, Voya Financial selects three top winners from across the country who receive additional funds.
Joining in the festivities were Borreson’s and Larson’s family members, as well as Hays CISD Superintendent Eric Wright, Voya Financial Regional Vice President David R. Bowman, Voya Head of Core Sales Jonathan Reilly and many other Hays CISD staff members. All hid behind the curtain in the main cafeteria prior to the main announcement, adding to the surprise.
