EECU sponsors new teacher grants for Sanger Unified

FRESNO, CA (August 18, 2025) |

Educational Employees Credit Union (EECU) is proud to partner with the Foundation for Sanger Schools to welcome new educators to Sanger Unified School District with a special gift. This year, every new teacher hire received $125 in cash to help them start their school year — a total of $10,000 invested directly into the hands of local educators.

The grants were presented during Sanger Unified’s new teacher orientation, a gathering designed to connect incoming educators with district leaders, resources, and community partners. The initiative reflects EECU’s ongoing commitment to supporting education and strengthening the communities it serves.

“Teachers have such a profound impact on students and families,” said Elizabeth J. Dooley, EECU president and CEO. “We’re honored to help welcome Sanger Unified’s newest educators and provide a little extra support as they prepare their classrooms and begin inspiring young minds.”

The Foundation for Sanger Schools played a key role in making the program possible and sees the grants as an important investment in the district’s future.

“Starting a new teaching position can be both exciting and overwhelming,” said Cary Catalano, Sanger Unified School District spokesperson. “These grants are a tangible way to show our new teachers that the community stands behind them from day one.”

EECU’s partnership with Sanger Unified is part of its broader mission to promote educational success, community engagement, and financial well-being throughout the Central Valley. The cash gifts are meant to help ease the costs of classroom supplies and other needs as new teachers settle in.

“I’m a new hire at Sanger Unified and I wasn’t expecting this at all,” said a first-year teacher at the celebration. “I’m so, so thankful. Thank you EECU.”