Tracy Diehl, Sam Wood, and Mischa Burnett

The team’s creative teaching idea, “Seeds of Success: Financial Hope for Youth,” is a pilot Children’s Savings Account (CSA) program at Eagleridge Elementary in the Ferndale School District, designed to build financial stability and future opportunity for all the students there, beginning in kindergarten. Through seed deposits, matched savings incentives and access to safe, accessible accounts, the teaching team says students will begin building assets early in life. Seed funding will come from the generosity of a local family foundation established by kindergarten teacher Sam Woods, demonstrating strong community investment in student success. The program is paired with family-centered financial literacy nights, culturally responsive resources and community partnerships to ensure equitable access for all families, including those without traditional banking access. By combining savings with education and engagement, the team believes “Seeds of Success” strengthens belonging, future orientation and long-term student success. The Voya grant will be used for start-up costs like account establishment, financial literacy materials for classrooms and planning and implementation of family engagement opportunities.