Inspiring Educators Teacher Scholarship Program

Celebrating the Educators Who Shape Our FutureProgram Overview

At Sunrise Family Credit Union, education isn’t just something we support — it’s part of who we are. Founded in 1956 by school employees, our credit union was built on the belief that strong communities start with strong educators. Nearly 70 years later, that belief continues to guide everything we do.

The Inspiring Educators Scholarship is our way of recognizing the teachers who show up every day with dedication, creativity, and heart. These educators do more than teach curriculum — they inspire confidence, foster growth, and create lasting impact in the lives of their students and communities throughout Bay and Arenac Counties.

To honor this commitment, Sunrise Family Credit Union will award four outstanding educators with $500 each. This scholarship supports continued growth while celebrating the meaningful difference teachers make both inside and outside the classroom. It reflects our shared belief in People Helping People and our deep appreciation for educators who live that philosophy every day.

 

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

  1. Current Employment
    Must be a currently employed teacher in Bay or Arenac County.

  2. Account Standing
    Must have a personal or professional account in good standing with Sunrise Family Credit Union.

  3. Teaching Experience
    Open to educators at all grade levels and across all teaching disciplines.

 

Essay Requirements

Applicants must submit a 400–600 word essay addressing the following prompts:

  1. Your Teaching Journey
    Why did you choose to become a teacher? Share the experiences, values, or moments that led you to the profession.

  2. People Helping People
    What does the People Helping People philosophy mean to you, and how does it influence your approach to teaching, collaboration, and student support?

 

Submission Guidelines

  • Format: Typed, double-spaced, submitted as a PDF
     
  • Length: 400–600 words

  • Submission Deadline: Tuesday, June 30, 2026 at 11:59 PM

  • How to Submit:
    Submit your essay along with a brief cover letter including:

    • Name

    • School

    • Sunrise Family Credit Union member number

    • Contact information

  • Applications should be emailed to Jodi Wolff at jwolff@sunrisefamilycu.org.

 

Selection Criteria

Essays will be evaluated based on:

  • Relevance & Insight – Thoughtful reflection and connection to the essay prompts

  • Creativity & Originality – Authentic voice and unique perspective

  • Professional Impact – Demonstrated application of the People Helping People philosophy in educational practice

 

Award Notification

Recipients will be notified by July 15, 2026.
Scholarship awards will be distributed by July 31, 2026.

 

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