Four teachers from across the region were recently selected to receive CalRTA Division 33’s $100 Teacher Grants, each using the funds to enhance student learning in creative and meaningful ways. Division 33 of the California Retired Teachers Association awards 16 $100 Teacher Grants each year as part of CalRTA’s mission to support public education’s teachers and students.
At Sally Buselt Elementary School in Menifee, third‑grade teacher Lesley Stevens plans to transform her students’ reading experience by adding flexible seating to the school’s large collaborative learning space. “With my $100 check I am going to purchase some comfortable seating to use with my students during reading group time,” she explained. “Our school has a unique and large collaborative space to use, and the comfortable cushions will make this space during our reading time so much better!”
At Tahquitz High School in Hemet, biology teacher Anne Rizzacasa will use her grant to enhance hands‑on science learning. The award will cover much-needed technology essentials and supplies her classroom has been missing. “Thank you so much, CalRTA! I plan to buy chargers for our Chromebooks and biotech supplies to study genetics, along with headphones to help students concentrate,” she said.
Fourth‑grade teacher Lorena Roberts of Nuview Elementary School expressed her enthusiasm for expanding both math and literacy resources in her classroom. “I am so grateful to have received a CalRTA Division 33 Teacher Grant,” she said. “I am excited to buy math manipulatives for my students. I also plan on buying more books for my classroom library. My students are going to love all of the new books. Thank you for continuing to support educators!”
At Park Hill Elementary School in San Jacinto, K–2 special education teacher Mai Eickman will use her grant to purchase essential classroom supplies tailored to her students’ needs. She emphasized the importance of sensory tools in supporting young learners, helping them focus and spurring engagement. “Thank you so much for the $100 check! I’m planning to use the money to buy school supplies for my classroom, especially sensory toys for my students!”
At Fruitvale Elementary School in Hemet, reading intervention teacher Jenna Spinali received $200 in grant funds — presented by Division 33 Co‑President Sue Breyer and Secretary Amy Helm at a recent staff meeting — after Division 33 matched the CalRTA state’s $100 Teacher Grant with an additional $100. Ms. Spinali explained that the funds will directly support the intensive reading intervention she and her co‑teacher provide to students who struggle. She also said that “with this money, I think I might buy another weighted lap pad. Many of our students have ADHD or anxiety and find it very difficult to calm their body and mind down so they can focus on learning.” She also intends to purchase the new phonemic‑awareness book “Sounds of Success” and a subscription to a website offering instructional materials for struggling readers.
CalRTA and its local Division 33 remain deeply committed to strengthening public education by advocating for retired educators, supporting active teachers, and investing directly in classrooms through grants like this one. Their ongoing efforts help ensure that students, teachers, and schools across the Hemet–San Jacinto Valley continue to benefit from resources, expertise, and a strong community of educators dedicated to learning. For more information, go to calrta.org.
