BENEFITS FOR YOU
Member Career Grants
Apply for a Member Career Grant
CSEA members work hard to improve the lives of their colleagues, students and their school communities. In staying true to our mission statement, CSEA offers grants to help members pursue their educational and career goals and improve their own lives. With over $135,000 in scholarships and grants awarded annually, CSEA can help offset the cost of higher education with $1,000 member career grants. Whether you’re going back to school after a hiatus or want to climb the ladder through professional enrichment, CSEA’s member career grants are here to help. “Though I have fortunately found a livable career path without a secondary degree, I know that I can provide a more comfortable life and set a proper example for my children through the pursuit of higher education,” said Aaron Colby, a payroll technician from Yosemite CCD Chapter 420 who is pursuing a degree in accounting. “I know that I have become a better employee through the classes I have taken so far.”
“Though I have fortunately found a livable career path without a secondary degree, I know that I can provide a more comfortable life and set a proper example for my children through the pursuit of higher education.”
- Aaron Colby, payroll technician from Yosemite CCD Chapter 420
In many instances, members who decide to go back to school do so after a long career of serving others. Many recipients of CSEA’s member career grants are working parents who understand the value of a college education, and now can pursue one. “I’ve always wanted to obtain my degree, but raising two daughters, taking care of a home, and working full-time became my priorities. When my youngest daughter went off to college, I knew it was my time and I dove right in,” said Lisa Burns, a student judicial affairs specialist from Santa Monica College Chapter 36, who is pursuing a degree in marriage and family studies. “But I couldn’t do it without the love and support of my husband, and CSEA helping with grants and scholarships.”
“When my youngest daughter went off to college, I knew it was my time and I dove right in,”
- Lisa Burns, student judicial affairs specialist from Santa Monica College Chapter 36
Member career grants are available to members who are actively taking college classes on a part- or full-time basis. Eligibility criteria are based on financial need, career goals and objectives, CSEA activities, and citizenship. For members who are still looking to find their true passion while working in public education, member career grants can even help you start your lifelong journey of learning.
“I found out my true passion is to become a licensed marriage family therapist and a professional clinical counselor. I want to support all families, couples, and individuals who need therapy.”
- Maria Morales, paraeducator from Steinbeck Country Chapter 547
“My parents have always inspired me to pursue an education and CSEA’s grants encourage members to go to school and feel less stressed and more supported,” said Maria Morales, a paraeducator from Steinbeck Country Chapter 547 who is pursuing a degree in psychology. “I found out my true passion is to become a licensed marriage family therapist and a professional clinical counselor. I want to support all families, couples, and individuals who need therapy.” Classified school employees are strong supporters of education, and their commitment to their students exemplifies that notion on campus and beyond. But many also believe in what continuing their own education can offer them and their families. Sometimes, it just takes perfect timing for that opportunity to happen.
“The COVID lockdown gave me more time to dedicate to finishing my education in public health. I had time to review my goals and see what was needed to finish,”
- Sophia Baida-Moatamer, administrative assistant from Orange County DOE Chapter 468
Sophia Baida-Moatamer is an administrative assistant from Orange County DOE Chapter 468 who saw her opportunity arise while sheltering in place during the pandemic. Like many CSEA members, not only did she step up to support her school district, but she also stepped up for herself. “The COVID lockdown gave me more time to dedicate to finishing my education in public health. I had time to review my goals and see what was needed to finish,” said Baida-Moatamer. “My kids are also older now, so I have more time to take more classes without the extra responsibility of young children, which in the past was hard to juggle.” Although every member has a different educational journey, it can begin with the help of a member career grant by starting the application process today.
Applications for CSEA’s member career grants open in June and must be returned complete with requested information no later than October 31. For more information, links to the application and the required Chapter Participation Form, visit www.csea.com/education. Members may also want to apply for the Union Plus Scholarship and for a Member Reimbursement Subsidy Grant of up to $250.
