Adopt-A-Teacher program FAQs

About

Desert Financial was founded in 1939 by a group of educators who believed in sharing success with the community. One way we continue to share success is by giving back to Arizona teachers! We recognize the hard work of our educators by giving them the opportunity to be part of our annual Adopt-A-Teacher program, which provides money for selected teachers to purchase classroom supplies.

How much funding can I apply for?

Each selected teacher will be awarded $1,000 to use for classroom supplies and other teaching materials.

Who can apply?

Any teacher in Arizona can apply! Priority selection will go to teachers at Title I schools.

Do I need to be a member to apply?

No. Applications will be accepted from both members and non-members.

Where do I apply?

The application is located on our website (desertfinancial.com/adoptateacher) on the Adopt-A-Teacher page starting July 7 until July 24, 2026. It is an electronic form. Make sure you can complete the application in one sitting. Information on partially completed applications will not be saved or accepted.

What information is required in the application?

You will be required to fill out your first and last name, contact information (phone number and email), the county where your school is located, school and grade level(s) you teach, proposed project or supplies and type of supplies needed and the number of students the supplies will impact. The application will take approximately five minutes to complete.

If I am selected, what will be required of me as a recipient of the Adopt-A-Teacher program?

As a recipient of the program, we will ask that you submit a more detailed list of supplies in alignment with the program or project for which you are requesting funding. We will ask if you are interested in receiving financial education resources for you or your classroom and if you are comfortable with Desert Financial visiting your classroom to see your projects in action. We will require receipts, photos, and completed post-program forms (due electronically) in October. After supplies have been received and post-program forms have been collected, you will have concluded your participation at that time.  

After I submit my application, what are the next steps?

Your application will be reviewed by Desert Financial. If your application is chosen for the Adopt-A-Teacher program, you will be contacted via phone or email using the contact information provided in your application. You will have 24 hours to respond and accept before another submission is selected. If you are not selected this year, you will also be notified and are encouraged to apply again next year.

Will you visit my classroom?

If you are selected, we will ask if you are willing to allow us to visit your classroom. We enjoy seeing you and your students in action, and we would love to take a few pictures or film a short interview with you to showcase your hard work and dedication to improving education in Arizona. While we’d love to visit all classrooms, capacity is limited. If you are selected, we will contact you in advance to discuss more details.

What if my supply needs or wish list items change?

If your needs change after submitting your detailed wish list, you must email updates for approval to ensure alignment with funding requirements. Additional details will be provided during mandatory virtual program orientation meetings in September.

What if I cannot receive funding directly?

If your school or district requires funding to be sent directly to the institution, contact teacherappreciation@desertfinancial.com after applying. Note that funding is not provided to PTAs, booster clubs, or similar organizations. The program is designed to support teachers and curriculum-based classroom needs.

What if I cannot meet or exceed the $1,000 funding?

If you cannot meet the $1,000 amount, contact us to find a solution. If your needs exceed $1,000, you are responsible for covering the additional costs.

What are examples of projects funded in the past?

Funded projects include STEAM activities (such as electric toy boat races), math supplies, musical instruments, whiteboards, headphones, garden kits, hygiene supplies, physical education equipment, and materials supporting neurodivergent students, including inclusive and adaptive learning tools.

Brief Timeline

July 7 – Applications open
July 24 – Applications close
August 11–18 – Application review process
August 20 – Recipients announced via email
August 28 – Acceptance packets due
September – Mandatory virtual orientation
Late September – Funding distributed
October – Post-program form and evaluation due
*All dates may be subject to change