AUSTIN (KXAN) — During a ceremony Thursday morning, Derrick Johnson’s Defend The Dream Foundation and the Kendra Scott Foundation unveiled the transformed library at Zavala Elementary School in east Austin.
The transformation was the fifth in Austin, and it features a multi-functional space for students to read and learn along with over 600 new books donated by Defend The Dream.
The area, dubbed the “Discovery Den,” aims to help children at local Title 1 schools reach their full potential.
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Derrick Johnson unveils the “Discovery Den” at Zavala Elementary School in east Austin (KXAN photo/Andy Way) -
Derrick Johnson unveils the “Discovery Den” at Zavala Elementary School in east Austin (KXAN photo/Andy Way) -
Derrick Johnson unveils the “Discovery Den” at Zavala Elementary School in east Austin (KXAN photo/Andy Way) -
Derrick Johnson unveils the “Discovery Den” at Zavala Elementary School in east Austin (KXAN photo/Andy Way) -
Derrick Johnson unveils the “Discovery Den” at Zavala Elementary School in east Austin (KXAN photo/Andy Way) -
Derrick Johnson unveils the “Discovery Den” at Zavala Elementary School in east Austin (KXAN photo/Andy Way)
Johnson is a former Texas Longhorn All-American and Kansas City Chiefs All-Pro linebacker who moved back to Austin in 2019 after a 14-year career in the NFL.
Defend The Dream Foundation previously helped with makeovers for the libraries at:
- Oak Springs Elementary School in September 2022
- Langford Elementary in April 2023
- Pickle Elementary in October 2023
- Barbara Jordan Elementary in May 2024
The foundation said it was looking forward to transforming additional spaces serving the Austin community and inspiring the leaders of tomorrow.
The Austin ISD library transformations are also made possible through a partnership with Austin Ed Fund.