Big thanks to Chandler Unified School District (CUSD) staff, families, and community for your generous support of $53,000 toward classroom grants through our annual Cash For Classrooms campaign! To make even more grants possible, CEF offered a $50,000 matching donation, elevating the impact to $103,000.
What does that look like in our schools? It means 75 grants — from $150 to $3,000 — awarded to teachers, counselors, and educators at 40 CUSD campuses. From building robots and tending gardens to discovering music and embarking on field trip adventures, these projects reflect the passion our educators bring to students every day.
“Teachers bring us such passionate, creative ideas with so much enthusiasm for enriching the learning experience. And too often, they pay for those ideas themselves,” said CEF Executive Director Jen Hewitt. “It’s inspiring to see our community make these projects possible and invest in our students’ success.”
For over two decades, Cash For Classrooms has encouraged teachers to dream big with projects that inspire engagement and enthusiasm for learning. Thanks to generous community support, those dreams become experiences that create lasting impact!
This year’s grants are bringing to life projects across areas such as:
STEM and innovation: Robotics kits, coding tools, and lab materials to spark problem-solving and real-world application of STEM concepts.
Inclusive learning and accessibility: Adaptive tools and flexible seating that support different learning styles and social-emotional needs.
Arts and expression: Music, theater, and visual arts resources to help students express their creativity and build confidence.
Language and literacy: Engaging books, storytelling activities, and digital tools to strengthen reading, writing, and communication.
Leadership and life skills: Programs to promote leadership, entrepreneurship, wellness, and positive behavior.
Grant applications are evaluated by CUSD leadership and CEF board members to address the most meaningful needs. And of course, the Woohoo Patrol — our surprise squad of CEF and CUSD representatives — made their rounds to celebrate winners at their schools.
