As the school year gets back into swing, now is the perfect time for teachers to apply for grants to support their classrooms.
New Mexico teachers can apply for a share of $20,000 in grants ranging from $500 to $2,500 for their schools and classrooms. U.S. Eagle Federal Credit Union’s ARNIA Foundation offers the funding through its EnrichEd Classroom Grant Program.
Executive Director Nadine Buerger said the initiative began in 2019 to enhance the classroom experience. She said teachers often have creative ideas for their classrooms and want to use them to engage students and improve attendance.
“Unfortunately, as we all know, oftentimes they’re lacking the funding. So that’s why we’re trying to jump in and help out,” Buerger told KOB 4.
Teachers can apply through the EnrichEd Classroom Grant Program website. They simply need to provide their budget and explain how they plan to use the funds before submitting their application.
Buerger said this year’s theme focuses on financial wellness and financial literacy. She said teachers can cover everything from the real cost of living to paying for college. They can also get creative and find other ways to help students build financial skills.
“We had some food truck battles in the past where students had to price out their menu, the budget for the food, how much they’ll be selling it for. That was a winner in the past. So really they can be creative but it has to revolve around financial wellness,” she said.
Applications are open until September 27. Organizers will announce the grant recipients in October.
