#United States #San Diego #North Island Credit Union #Teacher Grant #School Projects

North Island Credit Union Foundation Grants for Educational Innovation

In a significant move to enhance educational opportunities, the North Island Credit Union Foundation has awarded $5,000 in grants to local teachers in San Diego and Riverside counties. This initiative, part of the Fall 2025 Teacher Grant program, aims to support innovative classroom projects that inspire creativity and learning among students.

The grants will fund a diverse array of initiatives ranging from establishing a school garden specifically for special education students to facilitating a culinary training program focusing on plant-based diets for high schoolers. Other notable projects include a cultural arts and poetry event, as well as a unique biotech crime scene course designed to engage students in hands-on learning.

Marvel Ford, President of the North Island Credit Union Foundation, stated, “At North Island Credit Union Foundation, we believe great communities start with great classrooms. These grants celebrate the educators who go above and beyond to engage their students and spark a love of learning. We’re proud to support their work and the positive impact it has across our schools.”

Grant Recipients and Their Projects

The foundation awarded grants to ten enthusiastic educators this fall, each dedicated to different aspects of student learning. Here are the talented teachers and the projects they will be undertaking:

1. Shannon Alcorta - Mt. Carmel High School, San Diego: Supporting theatre arts education.
2. Brian Freeman - San Jacinto Valley Academy, San Jacinto: Promoting creative arts initiatives.
3. Abraham Hanono - Eastlake High School, Chula Vista: Implementing a biotech crime scene study.
4. Latrisha Hernandez - Logan Memorial Education Campus, San Diego: Establishing a cultural arts event.
5. Cynthia Hurley - Summit Academy, Winchester: Creating a special garden for students.
6. Vanessa Medellin - High Tech Middle School, Chula Vista: Launching a culinary training program.
7. Zeinab Mohamed - Iftin Charter School, San Diego: Developing a community engagement project.
8. Katherine Quinly - Coronado High School, Coronado: Enhancing arts education in classrooms.
9. Erin Savage - Morning Creek Elementary School, San Diego: Focusing on sustainable gardens.
10. Shawn L. Thomas - San Diego Academy, National City: Engaging students through innovative teaching methods.

These grants are a testament to the foundation's ongoing commitment to enhance the educational landscape, recognizing that dedicated educators play a pivotal role in shaping informed and inspired future generations.

Commitment to Teacher Support

Since its establishment in 2012, the North Island Credit Union Foundation has awarded a remarkable total of $225,000 in grants. The foundation provides up to 20 grants twice a year during the spring and fall, further showcasing its commitment to empowering educators in California. Eligible applicants include any full-time classroom teacher in regions such as San Diego, Riverside, Los Angeles, Orange, San Bernardino, and Ventura County, as well as credit union members teaching within the state.

The foundation encourages teachers to apply for grants that reflect creative teaching methods and have clear learning objectives that meet the diverse academic needs of students. By investing in such educational initiatives, the foundation aims to have a long-lasting impact on local communities and enhance the overall well-being of its residents.

About North Island Credit Union Foundation

The North Island Credit Union Foundation operates as a reputable 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and serves as the philanthropic arm of North Island Credit Union, which is a division of California Credit Union. Established in 1933, California Credit Union is a federally-chartered institution with more than $5 billion in assets and over 200,000 members. Recognized as a Forbes Best-In-State Credit Union in 2024-2025, California Credit Union provides a pathway for community members and businesses to become part of a financial institution focused on community well-being.

With all administrative costs covered by California Credit Union, the foundation ensures that 100% of donations are directed towards community programs. To learn more about the North Island Credit Union Foundation or to make a tax-deductible donation, visit ccu.com/foundation and follow the Foundation on Instagram at @northislandcufoundation.