Palmetto Citizens Foundation awards $50,000 in teacher grants

Inaugural Teacher Grant Program draws more than 1,350 applications, supporting creative classroom projects and hands-on learning

The Palmetto Citizens Foundation has awarded $50,000 to 57 teachers across 12 school districts and charter systems in South Carolina and Georgia through its inaugural Teacher Grant Program.

The program received more than 1,350 applications from educators seeking support for classroom supplies, educational resources and innovative learning experiences. Individual grant awards varied, with teachers receiving up to $1,000 to support their classroom projects.

Grant recipients represent a wide range of schools and communities, from elementary schools in rural areas to middle and high schools in larger districts, reflecting the foundation’s commitment to supporting education across both states. Of the 57 grant recipients, 41 (nearly 72%) teach at Title I schools.

“Palmetto Citizens was founded by teachers, so supporting educators has always been part of who we are,” said Emilie Lewis, executive director of the Palmetto Citizens Foundation. “The incredible response to this program shows just how many teachers are going above and beyond to create meaningful learning experiences for their students. We’re proud to help turn their ideas into reality and continue a legacy that began 90 years ago.”

The grants will fund a variety of projects designed to make learning more engaging, accessible and hands-on. Examples of funded projects include:

• Building a music classroom: Brooke Tolbert at Little Mountain Elementary School in Little Mountain, S.C., received $1,000 for music curriculum resources, musical picture books and interactive activities. The project will introduce approximately 382 students to rhythm, movement and musical expression, helping them develop an appreciation for music.
• Inspiring young entrepreneurs: Erica McCord at E.L. Wright Middle School in Columbia, S.C., received $1,000 for entrepreneurship guidebooks to support the school’s Young Entrepreneurs Club. Students will have the opportunity to develop their own business ideas while learning about budgeting, pricing and financial responsibility.
• Making science come alive: Samantha Garrett at Frances Mack Intermediate School in Lexington School District Four received $1,000 to create a living STEM laboratory featuring a classroom bearded dragon. Approximately 50 students will study ecosystems, track the animal’s growth and monitor habitat conditions while developing teamwork and responsibility skills. 
• Building confidence in math: Shanika Thornton at Freedom Park K-8 in Richmond County, Ga., received a grant to purchase math manipulatives, dry-erase boards, headphones and other instructional supplies. The resources will help 140 fifth-grade students strengthen foundational math skills through hands-on activities, small-group instruction and personalized practice.

The Teacher Grant Program reflects Palmetto Citizens’ longstanding commitment to education. Originally founded in 1936 as the Columbia Teachers Credit Union, Palmetto Citizens continues to honor its roots by supporting educators and investing in opportunities that help students thrive.

Following the success of its inaugural grant cycle, the foundation will begin accepting applications for its winter Teacher Grant Program on Dec. 1, 2026. Eligible teachers can apply for up to $1,000 for classroom supplies and materials that support student learning. Applications will be accepted through Jan. 31, 2027.

For more information, visit https://palmettocitizensfoundation.org/teacher-grant-program/ or email [email protected].

About the Palmetto Citizens Foundation

The Palmetto Citizens Foundation was established in 2025 to deepen community impact through focused investment in education, nonprofit support and community initiatives. Inspired by the credit union’s founding by educators in 1936, the foundation continues that legacy by supporting the people and organizations working to create opportunity and improve lives. Through charitable giving, volunteerism and partnerships, the foundation is committed to building stronger communities for generations to come. For more information, visit https://palmettocitizensfoundation.org/.