At NWCU, we recognize that teachers are one of the cornerstones of a community. It’s through their patience, dedication and experience that the young minds of any community are nurtured. Supporting teachers is one of the best ways to support our community. The TwinStar Community Foundation (the charitable arm for NWCU and TwinStar Credit Union) will be offering Classroom Cash grants to our local educators.  

Classroom Cash grants help teachers pay for technology, furniture, books, pens and pencils, and other classroom necessities that many educators purchase out-of-pocket. School teachers in areas that we serve from Tacoma, Washington to Medford, Oregon will receive $200 grants to support learning in their classrooms. In total, $80,000 will be awarded to schools in our communities! 

Applications are accepted between August 15th and September 30^th. Recipients will be notified by November 15, 2024. 

Selection Criteria

The following requirements must be met in order for the application to be considered. If the application is not completed in its entirety, it will be determined ineligible.

• Applicant must be a permanent teacher, counselor or librarian for K-5th grade in Washington or Oregon. Substitute teachers, assistant teachers, paraprofessionals, principals and administrative staff are not eligible for Classroom Cash
• Applicant must be a member in good standing with TwinStar Credit Union or Northwest Community Credit Union.
• Complete all contact information on the application, and name must match the name on your credit union account.
• Applicant must use your school email address to qualify.
• Any awards will be processed through the school district only.*
• The first 400 eligible applications will be awarded.
• Recipients are eligible for one award per school year.

*Classroom Cash must be processed through your school district, and you must follow your district’s grant policy when applying for grants.  Please check your district’s policy and procedure prior to filling out this application.

Your school district will be notified at the same time as you, and funds will be directed to the district. Some districts have opted out of participation, and unfortunately, educators in those districts will not be eligible.

It is important in the application to include the contact name, email and phone number of the individual in the district’s business/finance office who handles grant funds. Every effort will be made to coordinate how to best process the award for every recipient.

Classroom Cash is open to those who, at the time of application (a) are members of TwinStar Credit Union or Northwest Community Credit Union, (b) are at least 18 years of age, (c) are U.S. Citizens and (d) are a current teacher, counselor or librarian serving Kindergarten through 5th grades. Officers, directors and employees of the TwinStar Community Foundation and their immediate family members (spouse, child), as well as substantial contributors to the foundation or any disqualified persons are not eligible to participate in Classroom Cash.