Chandler Education Foundation has launched its annual Cash For Classrooms fundraiser aiming to raise $130K for teacher-requested innovation and enrichment grants.
The Chandler Education Foundation (CEF) is thrilled to kick off its annual Cash For Classrooms Fundraiser, aiming to raise $130,000 for teacher-requested innovation and enrichment grants. This unique initiative harnesses community contributions to support projects that enhance educational experiences within the Chandler Unified School District (CUSD).
In 2023, the generosity of the Chandler community enabled CEF to fund 116 grants totaling $75,000. These grants, requested by teachers and staff across CUSD, supported a wide variety of classroom projects. From specialized robotics equipment and community gardens to reading fluency headphones and special education PE equipment, each grant reflected the creativity and dedication of CUSD teachers in providing unique and engaging learning opportunities for students.
Ann Filiere, a robotics teacher at Arizona College Prep Middle School, expressed her gratitude for the support. "Thanks to the CEF Cash for Classrooms grants, my students have hands-on access to cutting-edge technology. These resources have truly ignited their enthusiasm and deepened their engagement in learning. I’m so grateful to CEF and all its donors for their support. Knowing these funds are available empowers teachers to be more creative and impactful.”
This year’s theme is “Light Up Learning” with grant awards of up to $3,000 available for classroom resources or experiences that enhance student engagement and outcomes.
“Our teachers are constantly finding novel ways to engage and educate their students, and the grants provided through the Cash For Classrooms Fundraiser make these initiatives possible,” said Jen Hewitt, Executive Director of the Chandler Education Foundation. “We are deeply grateful for every donation, big or small, that helps bring these projects to life.”
The fundraiser is entirely online enabling anyone, anywhere to contribute to bringing these innovative classroom projects to life. Tax-deductible contributions can be made at cefc4c.org. Every donation of $100 or more will receive a limited-edition State Forty Eight t-shirt as a token of gratitude from the foundation.
The Cash For Classrooms campaign concludes on Friday, August 23rd, which is also the deadline for teachers to submit their grant applications. All applications are evaluated by CUSD leadership and the CEF staff and board. Grant winners will be announced in October by the CEF ‘Woohoo Patrol,’ through surprise visits to classrooms.
