Across the country teachers have felt the pinch of a tight economy as they aim to provide a quality education for their students but often lack the necessary fiscal support. The Turlock Education Foundation is aiming to alleviate this stress by endowing 12 local teachers with a total of over $10,000 this school year.

Founded in 2011 by local parents, businesses and community members, the Turlock Education Foundation is a non-profit organization that supports Turlock Unified School District students and endeavors to bridge the gap between state funding and teachers’ needs. This year TEF will administer over $10,000 in grants which is made possible through fundraising effort and donations from Emanuel Medical Center, Turlock Firefighters Local 2434, and Blue Diamond Almonds among others.

“Our goal is to establish a $25,000 a year grant program. To do that we need to continue to build up our fundraising and attract more community members, foundation and corporations to support the program,” said Barney Gordon, President of the TEF Executive Board.

Applications for grants were accepted until mid-October and reviewed by a subcommittee composed of TEF board members, who submit their final nominations for a full board vote. Teachers were notified of the opportunity to apply through emails, Facebook, and the foundation’s. The 12 teachers selected represent Dutcher Middle School, Dennis Earl Elementary, Medeiros Elementary, Turlock High School, Turlock Junior High School, Wakefield Elementary and Walnut Elementary.

Those interested in applying for the 2014-2015 school year can access the application on the TEF website at turlockedfoundation.org. Those interested in donating to TEF can go to turlockedfoundation.org/donate.