OREGON (KTVZ) — A Redmond middle school teacher who used SELCO funding to launch a Career and Technical Education shop class is encouraging other Oregon educators to apply for more than $125,000 now available through the credit union’s Regional Classroom Makeover and Creative Educator Grant programs. Applications opened Aug. 15 and close Sept. 30.
The funding opportunities are provided through SELCO Steps Up, the credit union’s community outreach initiative. The programs aim to relieve financial pressure on K-12 educators who frequently pay out of pocket for essential school supplies. National Education Association survey data indicates teachers spend an average of $500 to $900 of their own money on classroom expenses each academic year.
Olivia Sorensen, community development supervisor at SELCO, said the initiative has helped teachers launch diverse educational projects across the state…