While the Arizona Cardinals’ season has come to a close, Arizona teachers have a reason to celebrate. Thanks to the Touchdowns for Teachers program, each touchdown scored allowed two teachers to receive $500 grants. This year, the Cardinals’ 42 touchdowns translated into $42,000 for Arizona classrooms, according to a press release.

“This grant from the Cardinals and SRP has given my students opportunities to engage in all the developmental domains of early childhood,” said Brinton Elementary preschool teacher Melissa Peralta. “With this funding, I was able to purchase realistic toys and create dramatic play areas for my classroom. As a teacher in a Title I school, I know that many of my students don’t have access to experiences that help them develop social, academic, and problem-solving skills. These resources will make a meaningful difference.”

Since the program's inception, SRP has contributed over $300,000 to support Arizona teachers, the press release continued. It is estimated that the average teacher in the U.S. spends approximately $560 of their own money to support their students each year. Touchdowns for Teachers is a way for teachers to obtain money that can be used however they see fit. From books to robotics kits, these grants have no restrictions on what teachers can purchase for their classrooms, according to the release. 

“Our collaboration with the Cardinals provides a unique platform to highlight SRP’s education programs and ensures people are aware of available resources for teachers,” Anita Tarango, manager of Community Engagement Strategy at SRP, noted in the release. “These grants directly benefit our students by helping their educators.” 

SRP commits $60,000 to support the Touchdowns for Teachers program and will provide an additional $18,000 in teacher grants to reach this goal.