Teachers win up to $500 as credit union backs classroom needs

Directions Credit Union is awarding classroom grants to educators across its service area through its Directions Cares for Classrooms program, according to a community announcement.

The credit union received 130 applications this grant cycle from teachers seeking support for classroom projects aimed at improving student learning and well-being. Grants of up to $500 are awarded to fund items ranging from books and STEM materials to sensory tools, classroom libraries and basic student necessities.

The program is open to K‑12 educators working in public, private and charter schools within the Directions field of membership, which includes Monroe and Lenawee counties in Michigan, along with multiple counties in Ohio.

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“Educators play an essential role in shaping future generations, often going above and beyond to meet the needs of their students,” Directions Credit Union President and CEO Barry Shaner said in the announcement. “This program is one way we can support their efforts and help bring meaningful ideas into the classroom.”

Michigan grant recipients

Barbara Bonkoski – St. Joseph Catholic School

Bonkoski will use the grant to purchase a teacher manual and student materials focused on decision-making and character development. The program is designed to help students strengthen values and social-emotional skills.

Adrienne Furman – Airport Community Schools

Furman, a school nurse, will use the funding to purchase first aid bags and supplies for each classroom. The project is intended to improve emergency preparedness and enhance student safety throughout the district.

Taran Kennedy – Bedford Junior High

Kennedy will purchase athletic shoes that students can borrow if they do not have appropriate footwear for physical education classes, allowing all students to participate safely in activities.

Shellie Metz – Monroe Middle School

Metz will use the grant to subscribe to interactive learning platforms such as BreakoutEDU and Kahoot. The tools will be used to make science lessons more engaging through interactive, game-based learning.

Deb Rogaliner – Jackman Road Elementary

Rogaliner’s grant will support the creation of an outdoor sensory area serving approximately 200 students. The space is intended to promote sensory exploration, emotional regulation and hands-on learning.

This story was created by Dave DeMille, ddemille@gannett.com, with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Journalists were involved in every step of the information gathering, review, editing and publishing process. Learn more at cm.usatoday.com/ethical-conduct.

This article originally appeared on The Monroe News: How classroom grants are helping teachers across Michigan