SchoolsFirst FCU Partners with Classroom of the Future Foundation to Celebrate 23rd Annual Innovation in Education Awards

SchoolsFirst Federal Credit Union joined Classroom of the Future Foundation (CFF) to honor educators, students and community partners at the 23rd Annual Innovation in Education Awards, held May 14 in San Diego County. 

The ceremony recognized seven Special Award winners, five STEAM Grant awardees and 14 AVID STEM scholars, high-achieving graduates pursuing STEM degrees. A total of $25,000 in STEAM grants was distributed among programs from districts throughout San Diego County, including Poway Unified School District, Escondido Union School District and Fallbrook Union High School District. 

"For more than two decades, the Classroom of the Future Foundation has celebrated the visionary work happening in San Diego County schools," said Josh Smith, vice president of school and community relations at SchoolsFirst FCU. "Partnering on this event allows us to support programs that expand learning opportunities and help students thrive." 

2026 Special Award Winners 

The following individuals, teams and organizations were honored for exceptional contributions to educational innovation and student success across San Diego County: 

• Todd W. Gutschow Visionary & Outstanding Leadership Award: Bruce Braciszewski, Ph.D. 

• Innovative District Team Award: Escondido Union School District Expanded Learning Team 

• Innovative School Award: Ivy High School, Fallbrook Union High School District 

• Pathways Team Award: Borrego Springs Unified School District Team 

• CFF D.R.E.A.M.S. Team Award: Poway OnStage 

• Business Team Award: California Schools VEBA 

• Community Team Award: Project Next