- First Federal Foundation invested $10,700 in 2026 to support Education Foundation of Alachua County initiatives for teachers and students.
- The funding supports Teacher of the Year program, Food Basket Program for food security, and Pantsapalooza for student clothing needs.
As Alachua County Public Schools prepare to welcome students and teachers back for the new school year, the Education Foundation of Alachua County (EFAC) announced that First Federal Foundation has invested $10,700 in programs that support students, families and educators throughout the county.
In an EFAC release sent on Monday, the 2026 investment will help fund three Education Foundation initiatives: the Teacher of the Year Recognition Program, the Food Basket Program and Pantsapalooza.
Foundation officials said the investment reflects a shared commitment to recognizing outstanding educators while ensuring students have access to the resources they need to succeed in and out of the classroom.
“This investment demonstrates First Federal Foundation’s commitment to strengthening our entire school community,” said Tatila Brock-Paul, executive director of EFAC, in the release. “Their support reaches beyond a single program—it honors the incredible work of our educators while ensuring students and families have the resources they need to begin the school year ready to succeed. We are grateful that the First Federal Foundation continues to invest in programs that strengthen our entire school community.”
The funding comes as EFAC begins seeking sponsors for the 35th Annual Robert W. Hughes Teacher of the Year Recognition Program. First Federal Foundation’s contribution is among the first commitments toward recognizing exceptional educators across Alachua County Public Schools. Sponsorship opportunities for the program are available through The Education Foundation.
In addition to recognizing educators, the investment supports two student-centered initiatives designed to remove barriers to learning.
The Food Basket Program provides nutritious food to students and families experiencing food insecurity during school breaks, helping ensure children have access to meals when school cafeterias are closed.
Pantsapalooza provides new clothing to students in need, allowing children to attend school feeling confident, comfortable and prepared to learn.
“Strong communities are built when we invest in both people and opportunity,” Brock-Paul said. “Whether recognizing outstanding teachers or ensuring students have food and clothing, First Federal Foundation is helping create the conditions for students to succeed both inside and outside the classroom.”