Despite rainy weather, the Lamar Educational Awards Foundation (LEAF) raised more than $273,000 during its annual “Surfs Up” fundraiser held Friday, May 1, 2026, at the Fort Bend County Fairgrounds. Proceeds from the event will directly support classroom grants and student scholarships across Lamar CISD. 

The annual fundraiser welcomed approximately 2,400 attendees, including Lamar CISD staff, district partners, community members, and supporters for an evening dedicated to investing in students and educators across the district. 

Guests embraced the event’s signature Hawaiian theme with island-inspired attire, tropical décor, and live entertainment from luau dancers that created a festive atmosphere throughout the evening. 

The evening’s program, led by emcee Commissioner Dexter McCoy of Precinct 4, featured auction host Don McCoy, Mayor of Fulshear, alongside auctioneer Clay Kaminski, a local insurance entrepreneur who guided one of the event’s most anticipated traditions. 

A highlight of the evening, the Surfs Up cake auction raised more than $105,000 alone. The auction featured 35 custom cakes created by campuses, departments, and community partners, showcasing creativity and community support across Lamar CISD. 

The highest bid of the night reached $10,500 for a cake created by the Banks Junior High School team and baked by Cheryl Koteras of Human Resources. The winning cake, purchased jointly by the Green Track campuses and First Financial Bank, featured layered flavors including a dense brownie base, marshmallow, dulce de leche, praline pecans, and a chocolate ganache finish. 

“We are always inspired by the way our community comes together for this event,” Kameela Lewis, Executive Director of LEAF, said. “‘Surfs Up’ reflects the collaboration, creativity, and generosity that continue to support students and staff across Lamar CISD.” 

Guests also enjoyed live entertainment from The Emotions, whose performance kept the celebration going throughout the evening. 

The success of the event was made possible through the continued support of sponsors and community partners. This year’s presenting sponsors included PBK and RockIT Consulting, along with additional supporters from across the community who continue investing in opportunities for Lamar CISD students.  

“Surfs Up brings people together in support of students and staff across Lamar CISD,” Lorin Pargoud, Managing Senior Principal at PBK and Vice President of LEAF, said. “It’s exciting to see campuses, community partners, and employees rally around a shared purpose that directly benefits classrooms and scholarship opportunities.” Lorin Pargoud, Managing Senior Principal at PBK and Vice President of LEAF, said. 

The event remains a powerful reminder of what can happen when a community shows up for its schools. With strong support year after year, LEAF continues its mission of enriching education and creating opportunities that make a lasting impact. Visit, https://www.lamareducationalaf.com/ to learn more about LEAF and how to get involved.  

A full list of this year’s sponsors can be found HERE. 

A full list of this year’s cake bakers can be found HERE. 

To view pictures from Surfs Up, please click HERE.